SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $465,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in East Central Illinois, including $150,000 to the City of Watseka to conduct extensive refurbishing of its elevated water tower, which is suffering from corrosion and wear.

The funds will be used for engineering costs, power washing and inspection, refurbishing and grant administration. This project will ensure that the existing facility will continue to serve its citizens for many years.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. William B. Black, R-Danville.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $100,000 to the Coles County Fair Association to renovate its grandstand in order to provide a safe venue for fairgoers.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Dale A. Righter, R-Mattoon.

• $100,000 to the Village of Ashmore to repair and renovate its community center to make it handicap-accessible and safer for all residents.
  This project was initiated by Righter.

• $75,000 to the Herrick Fire Protection District to construct an equipment storage building and purchase essential firefighting equipment.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Bill Mitchell, R-Forsyth.

• $40,000 to the Village of Ludlow to purchase a backhoe for general street and sewer maintenance.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Tim Johnson, R-Sydney.