wellness
Rockford residents lose sleep as evening screen time disrupts natural cycles
Evening device habits cut into rest for many in Rockford, according to multiple studies tracking light exposure and sleep cycles.
Published this week
What Rockford is reading
No reads have been recorded on this week's Rockford stories yet, so these are the most recent.
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Politics
Illinois Redirects $X Million in Training Grants to Rockford Manufacturers
Rockford manufacturers and job seekers gain access to new state training slots while smaller service businesses outside targeted sectors receive no additional support under the legislation.
wellness
Rockford Fitness Groups Expand Morning Boot Camps on Local Trails
Rockford fitness groups have added more morning sessions on local trails and parks this summer as residents seek structured group workouts.
Politics
Rockford Allocates Additional $2.8 Million for Street Repairs Under 2027 Capital Plan
The city budget directs new spending to pavement resurfacing and sidewalk upgrades on 18 specific corridors that residents use for work and school travel.
Politics
Illinois Property Tax Stability Act Caps Increases for Rockford Homeowners
The bill limits annual property tax growth to 3 percent for most residential parcels in Winnebago County beginning with the 2027 assessment cycle.
Politics
Rockford's 2026 Budget Cuts Social Services, Boosts Infrastructure Spending
A closer look at the city's fiscal year 2026 spending plan reveals clear winners among infrastructure and public safety, while social services and lower-income households absorb most of the trade-offs.
Politics
Rockford City Council Approves 2026 Capital Projects Ordinance, Funding Road Repairs and Job Training Centers
The ordinance directs $18 million toward pavement work on 25 miles of streets and new training facilities at two east-side locations, shaping construction employment and daily travel for Rockford residents.
wellness
Rockford Residents Join 5 Upcoming Charity Runs and Fitness Events
Rockford residents can join several group exercise opportunities this month that combine movement with community support.
finance
State Funding Revitalizes Rockford's Industrial Sites and Vacant Storefronts
State funding and a new rental assistance initiative target industrial sites and vacant storefronts in the city.
finance
S&P 500 fell 0.43% as global markets retreat
Where the major indices, gold and currencies landed, and what the moves mean for Rockford investors and retirement balances.
wellness
Meditation Classes Rockford: Beginner's Guide 2026
Find beginner meditation classes at Rockford's Nicholas Conservatory and East Side Community Center. Learn how to start a daily practice with affordable drop-in sessions and 8-week programs.
wellness
Rockford Swimmers Find 2 Prime Spots for Summer Lap Sessions
Rockford residents head to city pools and river spots for consistent lap sessions as summer routines settle in.
property
Rockford Planning Board Overhauls Density Rules, Reshaping Downtown and East Side Growth
New zoning flexibility allows mixed-use projects up to 12 storeys in core districts, but strict design guidelines aim to prevent the bland tower sprawl that plagued other Midwest cities.
Politics
Rockford Mayor Launches Jobs Plan, Infrastructure Upgrades for Residents
The updated local government plan promises expanded services, roadwork, and employment initiatives aimed at improving daily life for Rockford residents.
finance
Rockford's Factory Floor Meets a Surging Market: What Monday's Rally Means for the Region's Workers
A broad advance in global equities, rising commodity prices and a tech-led Nasdaq surge offer cautious encouragement for Rockford's manufacturing-heavy economy, though the gains are uneven and the local picture remains complex.