Defining the Midwest Megaregion
Regional Plan Association (RPA) and the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy convened on
September 8, 2005 a meeting of Midwestern academics and regional experts to discuss
the definition of the Midwest Megaregion and possibilities for collaboration and
research around challenges facing the Midwest. Hosted by Ron Thomas at the
Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission in Chicago, Illinois, the day-long discussion
culminated in general agreement around a common definition of the Midwest Mega-
Region, and next steps for collaboration and research. These notes from the meeting
summarize the day’s discussions, major findings, and actions steps for moving forward.
