Governor Quinn Announces $299,000 in Infrastructure Investments in Northern Illinois

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Pat Quinn today announced $299,000 in state investments in northern Illinois to support critical public works improvements, part of nearly $2 million to help rural communities improve their water and sewer systems. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to create jobs and bolster the state's infrastructure while improving health and safety in Illinois.

"These projects are vital to central Illinois and support basic community needs," Governor Quinn said. "Investing in infrastructure in Carroll and Ogle Counties is creating jobs and providing a foundation for a healthier and safer Illinois."

The investments were made under the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)'s Community Development Assistance Program, which targets areas with populations of less than 50,000 that are outside of urban counties. Larger towns and cities are eligible for similar funding by direct application to the federal government. Most of the money is for design work on water and sewer lines, with a portion dedicated to emergency needs. The funds originate from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and are administered by the DCEO.

"These investments are crucial to healthy water services in communities statewide," DCEO Director Adam Pollet said. "Investing in sanitary public works projects will not only directly benefit health and quality of life, it will also help create job opportunities in these communities."

Statewide, investments totaling $1.996 million were made in 17 rural low-income communities, and with the required local matching funds the total expenditure will be $2.095 million.

The communities receiving funds in northern Illinois include:

• Carroll County: Savanna, design sewer line and lift station improvements. $149,000 grant, total project cost $149,000.
• Ogle County, water and sewer work where systems are at risk of failure. $150,000 emergency set-aside fund grant.