This morning, Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL) released the following statement on the decision by the International Olympic Committee to eliminate Chicago from the running for 2016 Summer Games:

"Chicago was a world-class city before today’s decision, and Chicago will be a world-class city tomorrow. Although disappointment hangs in the air, this is not the time for regret, but rather to see opportunity in the incredible work that was done across Chicago over the past months.

We now have the chance to move forward, free of the demands of the IOC, but equipped with plans that can address the real problems Chicagoans face on a daily basis. Chicago is now armed with an organizing capability never seen before, and an opportunity to continue the momentum and create better schools, more efficient transportation, and safer streets.

I want to thank everyone who contributed to the Chicago 2016 bid, from President and Mrs. Obama to Mayor Daley to Pat Ryan and the whole 2016 Committee to everyone who volunteered in our neighborhoods to help showcase Chicago to the world. The incredible efforts of all those involved were by no means wasted. We saw the future of Chicago over the past months, and that future is ours to shape."