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Man who helped lead the redevelopment of Navy Pier has died

Jim Reilly
Getty Images

Former civic leader and Illinois lawmaker Jim Reilly has died.

The Springfield native represented west central Illinois in the General Assembly and later served as chief of staff to governors James R. Thompson and Jim Edgar.


He was most known for his work as head of McPier, the agency in charge of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority.

During his tenure, Reilly helped expand and redevelop Navy Pier, making it the most popular tourist attraction in the state. He also had a hand in the construction of McCormick Place's south building.

According to his family, the 77-year-old died from pneumonia-related complications in Chicago on Monday.

He's survived by his wife, Veronica Lynch, who issued the following statement:

"I don't believe he fully realized the impact he had on Illinois, most visibly Chicago. He departed with a million more plans in mind. He was an honorable man and I am privileged that he was my husband and very best friend."

His other professional accolades included serving as Chairman of the Regional Transportation Authority, Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau, and Chairman of the Board of the Illinois Capital Development Board.

Until his death, Reilly remained on the boards of Choose Chicago, Navy Pier, Mercy Hospital and the Illinois Institute of Technology.

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