The Chicago Map Society Presents: How Illinois Maps Itself

Title: How Illinois Maps Itself
Speakers: Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) mapping unit (Wendy Sheppard, John Mellor, Barb Clausen, and Jared Streeter)
Abstract: A multi-speaker discussion involving the History of Mapping at IDOT and current Official State of Illinois Highway Map, the 100th anniversary of Route 66 map for the celebration in 2026, and IDOT’s move towards interactive maps.

Bios:

Barb Clauser has been with the Illinois Department of Transportation for 34 years, with a focus on Information Technology and Geographical Information Systems. My work spans IT support, GIS project development, and technical writing, where I help bridge the gap between complex systems and clear communication. I’ve contributed to system implementation, user support, and the development of tools that improve data use and accessibility across the organization. With a strong foundation in both technology and documentation, I aim to deliver practical solutions that support informed decision-making and efficient operations.

Brian M. Sheehan is a GIS Mapping Specialist II at IDOT, a role in which he is primarily responsible as the lead for the work behind biennial updates to the Official State Highway Map (OHM). He additionally provides support on various mapping projects for use by colleagues and members of the public, products which come in a mix of physical and electronic online formats. Brian has been employed in his IDOT role for just over 2 years, and is a certified GIS Professional (GISP) plus a Professional Transportation Planner (PTP) with over 12 years of experience using GIS as a tool primarily for mapping transportation systems, and analysis in support of transportation planning.

Jared Streder is a Database Management Specialist at Illinois Department of Transportation. Jared is a Western Illinois University graduate in Geographic Information Sciences. He has worked at IDOT for 2 years now where he assists in a multitude of areas, acting as an IT liaison with a GIS focus including creating specialty maps and other GIS applications based on departmental needs.

Wendy Sheppard is the Mapping and Information Systems Unit Chief at the Illinois Department of Transportation where she provides support to IDOT staff, the public and co-workers on several levels. She is responsible for assisting with upgrades to software and hardware, provides technical expertise for cartographic and visual aid functions, and formulates policy and procedures regarding mapping at IDOT. Wendy has been employed with Illinois Department of Transportation
for 26 years.

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All Chicago Map Society meetings are open to the public and all are welcome. To help defray expenses, non-members are asked for a small donation at the door.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Newberry Library, 60 West Walton Street, Chicago, United States

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