SPRINGFIELD--Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $107,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Rockford Area, including $50,000 to Boone County to support the development of its New-Uses Agricultural Technology Center (Ag-Tech Park) project.

The Park will promote new uses of agricultural technology and products, the production of crops, and the discovery of nonfood markets. A contribution of $72,301 is from private donations.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Ronald A. Wait, R-Belvidere.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $25,000 to the Belvidere YMCA to purchase a van.
  This project was initiated by Wait.

• $20,000 to the Village of Capron to construct an automated severe weather warning system.
  This project was initiated by Wait.

• $12,000 to the ARC of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties, to make renovations to its facility in Rockford.
  This project was initiated by Wait.