The State of Illinois is investing in some transportation enhancement projects in southern Illinois.
Governor JB Pritzker says the majority of projects will be in communities that see the fewest development dollars.
"We're reversing a legacy of disinvestment that holds all of us back. We're establishing a new day for this program."
The projects include replacing the existing Piles Fork Greenway with a wider shared-use path on East Grand Avenue to East Walnut Street in east-central Carbondale.
The construction of a shared-use trail connecting the RIDES Mass Transit Park and Ride facility to the Crab Orchard Greenway shared-use trail in Marion.
ADA compliant sidewalks, ADA ramps, crosswalks, street lighting and improved aesthetics and functionality on Walnut Street in Murphysboro.
Construction of a 5-foot-wide sidewalk along U.S. 45 in Eldorado.
And updated ADA standards in Olney’s downtown business district.
Over $22 million in state grant funds will support nearly 90 local tourism festivals & attractions across Illinois, including several in the southern part of the state.
The funding comes from the Tourism Attractions and Festivals Grant program.
Governor J-B Pritzker says the state's tourism industry is again booming.
“The Tourism Attraction and Festivals Grant program has been a vital part of that success by restoring and enhancing the great events across our state that draw visitors from around the world."
In southern Illinois, $500,000 is going to Improvements to the Superblock, a sports multi-complex owned by the City of Carbondale
More than $142,000 for the Cascade of Colors event at the Southern Illinois Airport
Over $62,000 for the Du Quoin Holiday Lights Fair
$106,000 for the Metropolis Superman Celebration and the Fort Massac Encampment
$50,000 for the Centralia Balloon Fest.
