Governor Quinn Announces Investment in Mt. Vernon for New Recreational Facility

MT. VERNON - Governor Pat Quinn today announced a capital investment of $1.5 million for a park development and improvement project in Mt. Vernon. Funded by his Illinois Jobs Now! construction program. The project is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to increase recreational opportunities, create jobs and drive Illinois' economy forward.

"It's important that everyone in Illinois has a place to be active and take on a healthy lifestyle," Governor Quinn said. "This investment will give the Mt. Vernon community an improved facility to be enjoyed for years to come. The former National Guard Armory project will help improve the health of the people of Illinois and create new jobs for hardworking local residents."

The City of Mt. Vernon will receive $1,545,700 to renovate the exterior and interior of a former National Guard Armory building into a multi-use recreational facility. The city acquired the armory from the state of Illinois in 2012 and plans to renovate it into a multi-use recreational facility.

Mt. Vernon will use the former armory to expand existing recreational programs and create new ones to improve quality of life for its citizens. The total estimated project cost is $2,060,961.

"Investment in local park districts is an investment in the future of Illinois communities," Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller said. "This upgraded facility in Mt. Vernon will help maintain a high quality of life that is vital for attracting young families."

The park projects are part of Governor Quinn's $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which will support more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest construction programs in the nation.