⁉️ Vent about speed cameras!

The Mega Threat to Great Lakes Drinking Water

Touting a large water supply — and tax breaks — Great Lakes states have lured in mega data centers. Illinois now houses the fourth-most data centers in the nation. But a single large center can consume up to 5 million gallons of water per day, and these states have no structures in place to prevent overextraction. [WTTW]

‘La Placita’ Coming Soon(ish) to Belmont Cragin

Ground broke this week on La Placita De Belmont Cragin: a plaza that will include benches, picnic tables, a walking path, public art and space for outdoor performances and food vendors. In the works for four years, the project is set to open next spring. [Block Club]

Show Some Respect to Chicago House Music

The city’s House Music Festival and Conference is back, which means it’s time for a dance break. On today’s podcast, the co-hosts of WNUR’s Vintage House Show, DJ Lori Branch and archivist Lauren Lowery, share the roots of house music. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

CTA May Soon Receive Funds From Metra and Pace

As CTA, Metra, and Pace approach a combined, $771 million fiscal cliff, money may get moved around. Today, the Regional Transportation Authority will vote on whether to transfer $74 million from Metra and Pace to the CTA to stave off major cuts by two or three months. [Tribune 🔒]

• Related: Here’s what could happen if no transit bailout is reached. [Hey Chicago 💻]

And now, time for your Neighborhood Shoutout! Every week, we highlight recs from City Cast Chicago Neighbors. To plug your favorite business or nonprofit, become a member today.

Today, Neighbor Jess C. is shouting out Crisp: “Crisp in Lakeview East off Broadway — best Korean BBQ in the city! Those wings!”

I’d also like to share my own shoutout this week, to Irma who supplies everyone at the Montrose Beach ledge with the floaties they need to have a bobbing good time. Thanks, Irma!