Ryan: $1 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for the Kankakee and Illinois River Valleys

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.04 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in the Kankakee and Illinois river valleys, including $650,000 to the City of Spring Valley to help with one portion of the infrastructure improvements needed for a new Wal-Mart distribution center.

In order to help with the development of the Wal-Mart site, the city must build two water storage tanks and extend water mains out to the location. Wal-Mart is constructing a 1.2 million square foot facility that will employ 600 people. The city is contributing $217,596 to the project. The Department of Commerce and Community Affairs and the federal government have each dedicated $500,000 to other infrastructure projects.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Frank Mautino, D-Spring Valley.

Other Illinois FIRST projects released by Ryan:

• $350,000 to the city of Morris for the construction of a bridge that will cross Nettle Creek.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Mary K. O'Brien, D-Coal City.

• $20,000 to the Sheridan Community Fire Protection District to purchase a "jaws of life" cutting tool and other equipment.
  This project was initiated by O'Brien.

• $15,000 to the Canal Corridor Association to develop various educational programs to promote local history.
  This project was initiated by O'Brien.

• $7,500 to the Buckingham Park Society to help purchase playground equipment for a park in the Village of Buckingham.
  This project was initiated by O'Brien.