For Release: Saturday, November 20, 2004
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS PROJECTS RECEIVE FUNDING IN BUDGET BILL
Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that several projects of significance for Southern Illinois are part of the Omnibus Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2005 that passed the House of Representatives Saturday. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by the President.
The projects include:
- $2 million for operation and maintenance of the Kaskaskia Navigation System. Costello restored funding for the Kaskaskia after it was severely cut in President Bush's budget request earlier this year.
- $300,000 for the Saluki Kids Academy , a summer program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale for at-risk 4th - 6th graders.
- $169,750 for the Benton Library to significantly increase its facilities, including more meeting space and a larger children's area.
"This funding will help maintain the Kaskaskia as a viable waterway for our farmers and industries, which is important for the regional economy," said Costello. "There is also money to improve our education facilities as well as learning opportunities for young children. Investing in our students has proven to be a smart federal investment."
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