For Release: Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661
COSTELLO ANNOUNCES DELTA REGIONAL AUTHORITY GRANTS
Washington -U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that several Delta Regional Authority (DRA) grants have been awarded in Southern Illinois. The funds will be used for economic development projects.
“These projects will promote economic development in the region,” said Costello. “DRA funds are being used in conjunction with other federal, state and local monies to improve the quality of life of the citizens of Southern Illinois.”
Costello has been a strong supporter of the DRA, which is modeled after the Appalachian Regional Commission and responsible for developing plans and establishing programs for the economic development of the Delta region. Sixteen Illinois counties are in the Delta, including Randolph, Perry, Jackson, Union, Alexander, Pulaski, Franklin, Williamson, Johnson, Massac, Hamilton, Saline, Pope, White, Gallatin, and Hardin.
Projects include:
- City of Marion – $148,966 to construct an elevated water tower and pumping station to supply needed water storage and pressure.
- City of Pinckneyville – $165,752 to install a new waterline to provide fire flow protection.
- Crab Orchard & Egyptian Railroad, Williamson County – $92,200 to make rail improvements.
- City of Mounds – $22,872 to install fiber optic backbone infrastructure from Mounds City Hall to the city’s Business Center to provide high speed broadband capabilities to businesses.
- City of West Frankfort – $45,000 to install fiber optic cable within the West Frankfort Industrial Park to provide high speed broadband capabilities to businesses.
- Pulaski County Development Association - $100,000 to purchase six to ten acres in the Southern Illinois Stimulus Corporation Industrial Park to be leased by the Masters Choice company.
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