For Release: Thursday, November 30, 2006
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:
· $150,000, Pulaski County - To install road, water, rail and sewer service in the Southern Illinois Stimulus Corporation Regional Industrial Park in conjunction with a new ethanol plant.
· $10,500, Monroe Randolph Transit District (MRTD) - To collect and analyze census demographic data, incorporate service data collected by MRTD and identify under-served communities and potential gaps in service.
· $75,000, City of Sparta - To construct a new water treatment plant.
· $70,000, City of Du Quoin - To construct Bob Green Drive to improve access to several facilities.
· $52,500, City of West Frankfort - To upgrade electrical to 3-Phase at the West Frankfort Business Incubator.
· $50,000, Franklin Hospital District - To purchase, install and implement the use of an electronic health record system.
· $50,000, Perry County - To construct Green's Market Road, upgrading the surface for use by heavy trucks.
· $100,000, Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market - To expand broadband infrastructure.
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