No one expected Chicago 2016 to get booted in the first round of Olympics bidding this morning in Copenhagen.  But that's what happened:

Chicago has been eliminated in the first round of International Olympic Committee voting, and Tokyo was eliminated in the second roud, leaving Rio de Janeiro and Madrid in the running for the 2016 Summer Games as the voting continues.

Quite a shocker, even for many of those who opposed the bid.  But now it's time to shake it off, move forward, and think creatively about how to make meaningful, long-term investments in this city.  

Here's one place to start.

UPDATE: Some responses to the news.  First, from Rep. Mike Quigley:

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.  

And here's State Treasurer and U.S. Senate candidate Alexi Giannoulias:

While I am disappointed in the result, I am proud of our president for going to Copenhagen to fight for Chicago and fight for the jobs the Olympics would have created. I am glad the President did not listen to the Republicans and run up the white flag in competing for the Olympics."

(11:15 am): The Chicago Federation of Labor:

“The 2016 Olympics are a stimulus package that would have helped us add much-needed jobs to the local economy, both union and non-union, in a wide range of industries,” said Gannon.  “While we wish the result was different, Chicago’s labor community is proud to have been a part of this monumental effort to host the Games and stimulate our local economy. We commend the Chicago 2016 organization and everyone who joined in support of this endeavor.” 

(11:40 am): Alderman and Cook County board president candidate Toni Preckwinkle, via ABC 7:

(11:58 am): From Parents United for Responsible Organization (PURE):

So, the mayor's Olympic balloon is burst. The orgy of power and self-congratulation has come to an end.

Maybe Chicago can finally turn its attention to making the city livable for everyone, and our schools safe and effective for every child. We could even call it an "Olympian effort."

It's clear that Chicago needs new leadership. The time has come.

(1:05 p.m.): From Gov. Pat Quinn:

While we are understandably disappointed, we should not be discouraged by today's outcome. Chicago's bid was a great example of effort, energy and teamwork. People from across our state came together in an unprecedented manner to support this excellent bid. Going forward, we must apply what was learned from this process and continue to make Chicago and Illinois even stronger and better. 

(1:25 pm): State Rep. and 10th District congressional candidate Julie Hamos:

I am disappointed that Chicago will not have the privilege to host the 2016 Olympic Games. The Olympic bid produced impressive planning and creative thinking about the future of Chicago and the region. It is my hope that we can continue to put that civic enthusiasm to work and find ways to improve our transportation infrastructure and the environment, and bolster our regional economy.