Governor Ryan: $21,580,000 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Suburban Cook County

SPRINGFIELD--Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $21,580,000 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Suburban Cook County, including $21,000,000 to Cook County Forest Preserve District for restoration, maintenance and facility upgrades throughout the district. Approximately 40 million people visit the various forest preserves every year.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $250,000 to the Village of Elmwood Park to help construct a new public library. The village will contribute $2.9 million.

• $200,000 to the Village of River Grove to replace 1,390 feet of sanitary sewer main. The village will contribute $65,000.

• $50,000 to the Community Action Council for various recreational programs for seniors and youth in the Austin area.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Chicago.

• $25,000 to the United Faith Tabernacle Church to provide assistance with its soup kitchen and counseling programs.
  This project was initiated by Lightford.

• $25,000 to the Village of Berkeley to help reconstruct a water main along St. Charles Road.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Bob Biggins, R-Elmhurst.

• $20,000 to the Austin Messiah Lutheran Church to purchase computers and equipment for a computer lab.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Calvin Giles, D-Chicago.

• $10,000 to the Community Action Council in Chicago to provide recreational activities for its senior citizens.
  This project was initiated by Giles.