SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $290,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $100,000 to Belleville Township to construct a baseball field.

The American Legion baseball field will include dugouts, a scoreboard and a concession stand.

This project was initiated by State Sen. James F. Clayborne, Jr., D-Belleville.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $50,000 to the Alorton Police Department to purchase two police cars.
  This project was initiated by Clayborne.

• $50,000 to the Venice Park District to make upgrades at Venice Park.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Wyvetter H. Younge, D-East St. Louis.

• $48,000 to the Northwest St. Clair County Fire Protection District to equip a new pumper truck with hoses, nozzles, adapters, fittings and radios.
  This project was initiated by Clayborne.

• $20,000 to the Boy's Football Club of Belleville, Inc., to develop a lighted practice and playing facility for football and cheerleading activities for area youth.
  This project was initiated by Clayborne.

• $10,000 to the Grantfork Fire Protection District to purchase fire and safety equipment.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. Frank C. Watson, R-Greenville.

• $10,000 to the Greenville Public Library to upgrade its heating, ventilation and air- conditioning system.
  This project was initiated by Watson.

• $2,500 to the Edwardsville Community Unit District 7 to purchase various native Illinois trees for the high school's Outdoor Classroom project.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Jay C. Hoffman, D-Collinsville.