For Release: Thursday, October 10, 2002
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

LOCAL PROJECTS APPROVED IN DEFENSE BILL

Washington -- U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the House of Representatives has approved local projects as part of the Defense Appropriations Conference Report for Fiscal Year 2003. The Senate and President Bush are expected to approve the legislation.

"These projects are important to the national defense of the United States and the regional economy," said Costello. "I am pleased that we have passed this necessary legislation."

Local projects included:

* $1 million for rehabilitation and structural repairs at River's Edge, formerly the Charles Melvin Price Support Center.

* $4 million for Saboted Light Armor Penetrating (SLAP) military ammunition for heavy machine guns, which is manufactured by the Olin/Winchester Corporation in East Alton.

* $16.5 million for 9mm ammunition, which is manufactured by the Olin/Winchester Corporation in East Alton.

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