Community Project Funding
FY25 Community Project Funding
The Applications for FY25 Community Project Funding are now closed. Please reach out to our office if you have any additional questions or concerns.
Community Project Funding (CPF) allows Members of Congress to request direct funding for specific projects that benefit the communities they represent. CPF is separate from federal grants and from funding apportioned by formula.
Community Project Funding is coupled with stringent eligibility, ethics, and transparency guardrails that are outlined on the individual forms linked below. CPF will be available only to some nonprofit organizations and to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. In addition, only projects with evidence of strong support from the community will be considered, and evidence of community support and community need is required as part of your submission. This evidence can take the form of a letter from local stakeholders, inclusion on a state or local planning document, letters to the editor in local papers, and many more options discussed further below.
The deadline for Community Project Funding submissions to our office was April 30, 2024.
The deadline to submit requests for both CPFs and programmatic/language request for FY25 was on April 30th. Forms are now closed.
**Please note that this limited timeline is due to external deadlines set by House Republicans, that our office does not control. Our office will do everything possible to accommodate submissions from constituents of the 14th District. Please reach out to the staff contact listed on the forms below if you believe your submission is late.**
Committee on Appropriations
For FY 2025, CPFs are available from dozens of accounts across seven different appropriations bills. A summary of eligible accounts and their allowed uses is below. In-depth information on eligibility requirements and allowable uses for each account can be found in the linked form for the relevant appropriations measure.
The full list of CPF eligible accounts may also be accessed here.
Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- USDA Rural Development, Community Facilities Grants: CPF from this account may be used to purchase, construct, or improve essential community facilities in rural areas; to purchase equipment; and pay other related project expenses. These projects must serve a rural area, which the account defines as "rural areas including cities, villages, townships and towns including Federally Recognized Tribal Lands with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Data." Please note that eligibility for funding from this account is tricky and will likely be determined on a case-by-case basis; please don't hesitate to reach out to the staffer listed in the form above with any questions. Additional information on the Community Facilities Program is available here. This account has complex cost-share requirements calculated on a graduated scale based on community population, as follows:
- Minimum of 25 percent cost share when the proposed project is located in a rural community having a population of 5,000 or fewer.
- Minimum of 45 percent cost share when the proposed project is located in a rural community having a population between 5,001 and 12,000.
- Minimum of 65 percent cost share when the proposed project is located in a rural community having a population between 12,001 and 20,000.
BEST FOR: Nonprofit organizations and local government entities located in qualified rural areas.
- USDA Rural Development, ReConnect Program: CPF from this account may be used for construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment to improve broadband access in rural areas. The community must be rural and lack sufficient access to broadband service. For the purposes of this account, a rural area is defined as any area which is not located within: (1) A city, town, or incorporated area that has a population of greater than 20,000 inhabitants; or (2) an urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to a city or town that has a population of greater than 50,000 inhabitants. Sufficient access to broadband is defined as greater than 90% of any rural area in which households have fixed, terrestrial broadband service delivering at least 25 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. Mobile and satellite services will not be considered in making the determination of sufficient access to broadband. The program requires a 25% cost share that cannot come from another federal source. Additional information on the ReConnect Program is available here. To assist with determining service area eligibility, please consult the ReConnect Service Area Map and FCC National Broadband Map. Please note that eligibility for funding from this account is tricky and will likely be determined on a case-by-case basis; please don't hesitate to reach out to the staffer listed in the form above with any questions.
BEST FOR: Local governments and nonprofit organizations that meet eligibility requirements.
- USDA Rural Development, Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants (DLT): CPF from this account may be used to help rural communities acquire the technology and training necessary to connect educational and medical professionals with students, teachers, and patients in rural areas. Grants may be used for audio and video equipment, broadband facilities that support distance learning or telemedicine (not actual broadband), computer hardware or network components/software, and acquisition of instructional programing. The program requires a 15% cost share that cannot come from another federal source. Eligible applicants include most public or non-profit entities that provide education or health care through telecommunications. The program is intended to serve rural areas with populations of 20,000 or less. Additional information on program requirements and eligibility can be found here.
BEST FOR: State and local governments; non-profit health centers, human services providers, and education providers; or a consortium of eligible entities.
- USDA Rural Development, Water and Waste Disposal Grants: CPF from this account may be used to finance the acquisition, construction or improvement of drinking water sourcing, treatment, storage and disposal; sewer collection, transmission, treatment and disposal; solid waste collection, disposal and closure; and storm water collection, transmission, and closure in rural areas. The program requires a 25% cost share that cannot come from another federal source. Eligible projects must serve rural areas or towns with a population of 10,000 or less. Additional information on program requirements and eligibility can be found here.
BEST FOR: Local governments; owners of nonprofit sewer and drinking water infrastructure; nonprofit waste management organizations.
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Conservation Operations: CPF from this account may be for projects to address soil erosion, improve soil health, enhance water supplies, improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat, and reduce damage caused by floods and other natural disasters. Please note that for FY24, nonprofit organizations are no longer eligible for funding under this account. Only projects by State and local governments or public conservation districts will be considered.
BEST FOR: Conservation districts; extension programs; other state and local government entities.
- USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Buildings and Facilities: CPF from this account must be used for ARS-owned or operated facilities. Requests can assist in the acquisition of land, construction, repair, improvement, extension, alteration, and purchase of fixed equipment or facilities. ARS owns and operates laboratories and facilities across the United States. Our office anticipates that entities in the IL-14 District are not likely to be eligible for funding under this account.
BEST FOR: Scientific researchers; research universities.
Full committee guidance for projects under the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee may be found here.
Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- Byrne Justice Assistance Grants (JAG): CPF from this account may be used to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement efforts to prevent crime, improve the criminal justice system, provide victims' services, address the opioid crisis, and other related activities. Historically, the Committee has not funded vehicles or building construction or renovation as part of community project funding under this account. Community projects funded under this category must comply with the requirements cited in JAG statutes (available here ) and be consistent with Justice Department guidance for the program (available here).
BEST FOR: Community-based nonprofit organizations; state and local governments; local law enforcement agencies (more information on nongovernmental sponsor eligibility can be found on page 10 of this document).
- Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) - Technology & Equipment: CPF from this account may be used by local law enforcement to develop and acquire effective technologies and equipment needed to respond more quickly and effectively, improve officer safety, increase transparency and enhance community relations. This includes interoperable technologies, modernized criminal record technology, and forensic technology that assist in investigating, responding to, and preventing crime. These projects should help improve police effectiveness and the flow of information among law enforcement agencies, local government service providers, and the communities they serve. Building construction or renovation projects are not eligible uses of funding under this account.
BEST FOR: State, Tribal, and local law enforcement agencies.
- Department of Commerce; National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); Scientific and Technical Research: CPF from this account must be for activities consistent with and supportive of NIST's mission and aligned with an activity listed in section 272 of title 15, United States Code (available here). Examples of these activities include advancing measurement technologies and methods and the development of technology and procedures to improve manufacturing processes for products based on new scientific discoveries in fields such as automation, electronics, advanced materials, biotechnology, and optical technologies. Please note that this account does not fund building construction or renovation.
BEST FOR: State and local governments, institutions of higher education, non-profit organizations, hospitals.
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Safety, Security, and Mission Services: CPF from this account may be used for projects focusing on science, education, research, and technology development related to NASA’s mission. Such projects must address purposes listed in section 20102 of title 51, United States Code (available here). Funding for building construction, renovation projects, or medical research projects will not be considered for community project funding. The vast majority of local governments and organizations in IL-14 will not be eligible for funding from this account.
BEST FOR: Local nonprofit colleges and universities; research institutions; local STEM education and workforce training programs.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coastal Zone Management: CPF from this account may be used for projects support the protection, restoration, and responsible development of our nation’s diverse coastal communities and resources. Local governments and organizations in IL-14 are likely not eligible for funding under this account.
Full committee guidance for projects under the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Subcommittee may be found here.
Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Only previously authorized projects will be considered for funding. Funding will be available in the Investigations, Construction, Mississippi River and Tributaries, and Operation and Maintenance accounts. Please note that most local governments and organizations in IL-14 will not be eligible for funding from this account.
BEST FOR: Facilitators of authorized projects and their partners.
- Bureau of Reclamation - Water and Related Resources: Only previously authorized projects will be considered for funding. Please note that most local governments and organizations in IL-14 will not be eligible for funding from this account.
BEST FOR: Facilitators of authorized projects and their partners.
Full committee guidance for projects under the Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies Subcommittee may be found here.
Homeland Security
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants: CPF from this account may be used for planning and implementing sustainable, cost-effective measures to provide long-term, permanent risk reduction to individuals and property from future natural hazards, such as floods and wildfires, while reducing reliance on federal funding for future disasters. Only projects that meet the requirements detailed in the most recent Notice of Funding Opportunity will be considered for funding. For any PDM projects designated for funding in the FY 2024 Homeland Security Appropriations Act, the respective State or Territorial Administrative Agency, or Tribal government, must submit an application to FEMA and serve as the administrative agent for the grant on behalf of the entities responsible for the project (grant subrecipients).
BEST FOR: State and local governments.
- Emergency Operations Center Grants: CPF from this account may be used to improve emergency management and preparedness by supporting secure, strategically located, and fully interoperable emergency operations centers (EOC) with a focus on addressing identified deficiencies and needs. An EOC is defined as a “facility or capability from which direction and control is exercised in an emergency. This type of center or capability is designated to ensure that the capacity exists for leadership to direct and control operations from a centralized facility or capability in the event of an emergency.” Examples of eligible projects include construction and renovation of such centers. Only projects that meet the requirements detailed in the most recent Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Emergency Operations Center Grant Program, including the cost-share requirement and environmental and historic preservation requirements, as applicable, will be considered for funding. For any EOC projects designated for funding in the FY 2024 Homeland Security Appropriations Act, the respective State or Territorial Administrative Agency, or Tribal government, must submit an application to FEMA and serve as the administrative agent for the grant on behalf of the entities responsible for the project (grant subrecipients). CPF funding in the FY 2023 House bill ranged between $158,176 and $3,000,000 for individual EOC grants.
BEST FOR: State and local governments.
Full Committee guidance for projects under the Homeland Security Subcommittee may be found here.
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- Environmental Protection Agency - State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG): CPF from this account may be used to fund local wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects. This includes construction of and modifications to municipal sewage treatment plants and drinking water treatment plants. Similar to past practice, the Committee will be limiting STAG infrastructure grants only to projects that are publicly-owned or owned by a non-profit entity and that are otherwise eligible for the funding from that state's Clean Water or Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF) loan programs. There is a minimum 20% cost share requirement for any portion of a project funded through a STAG infrastructure grant. Projects already listed on Illinois's Intended Use Plans for wastewater and drinking water and will be prioritized by the Committee. Privately-owned projects are NOT eligible for CPF through this account, even if they are otherwise eligible for assistance under a SRF program.
BEST FOR: State, municipal, and local governments; owners of nonprofit sewer and drinking water infrastructure.
Full committee guidance for projects under the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee may be found here.
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- Department of Defense—Construction and Unspecified Minor Construction – Active Components: Only projects that are included on an unfunded requirements/unfunded priorities list (UFR/UPL) from a military service or combatant command or the FY24-FY28 Future Years Defense Program (FYDP) are eligible for funding. Projects suggested by an installation or unit commander will not be accepted. The vast majority of local governments and organizations in IL-14 will not be eligible for funding from this account.
BEST FOR: Facilitators of Active Components (Army, Navy and Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force, and Defense-Wide Agencies) projects that are included on an unfunded requirements/unfunded priorities list (UFR/UPL) from a military service or combatant command or the FY24-FY28 Future Years Defense Program (FYDP).
- Department of Defense—Construction and Unspecified Minor Construction – Reserve Components: Only projects that are included on an unfunded requirements/unfunded priorities list (UFR/UPL) from a military service or combatant command or the FY25-FY29 Future Years Defense Program (FYDP) are eligible for funding. Projects suggested by an installation or unit commander will not be accepted.
BEST FOR: Facilitators of Reserve Components (Army National Guard, Air National Guard, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, and Air Force Reserve) projects that are included on an unfunded requirements/unfunded priorities list (UFR/UPL) from a military service or combatant command or the FY25-FY29 Future Years Defense Program (FYDP).
Full committee guidance for projects under the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee may be found here.
Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies
Accounts within this measure eligible for CPF are:
- Department of Transportation – Highway Infrastructure Projects: Eligible projects are described under Section 133(b) of title 23, United States Code, but most closely align with the existing Surface Transportation Block Grant program.
BEST FOR: State and local governments; metropolitan planning organizations; local transportation agencies.
- Department of Transportation – Transit Infrastructure Projects: CPF from this account may be used for public transit projects. Public transportation or transit is defined in Section 5302(15) and (22) of title 49, United States Code, as regular, continuing shared-ride surface transportation that is open to the general public or open to a segment of the general public defined by age, disability, or low income, and does not include intercity passenger rail transportation, intercity bus service, charter bus service, school bus service, sightseeing service, courtesy shuttle service for patrons of one or more specific establishments, or intra-terminal or intra-facility shuttle services.
BEST FOR: State and local governments; metropolitan planning organizations; local transportation agencies.
- Department of Transportation - Airport Improvement Program (AIP): CPF from this account requests may be used for enhancing airport safety, capacity, and security, and mitigating environmental concerns. Airports should be on the current National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). Funding may be used only for facilities and equipment and may not be used for construction or rehabilitation of contract towers.
BEST FOR: Local airports.
- Department of Transportation - Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements: CPF from this account may be used to assist in financing the cost of improving passenger and freight rail transportation systems. All projects must be rail capital projects or systems planning for a rail capital project. Activities that are administrative in nature are not eligible even if they are eligible expenses under the statutory citation. These include but are not limited to general operating expenses, rail related research, and workforce activities.
BEST FOR: State and local governments and rail transportation systems.
- Department of Transportation - Port Infrastructure Development Program: CPF from this account may be used for projects eligible under Section 54301 of title 46, United States Code, as amended by title XXXV of division C of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022. The House Appropriations Committee majority has informed us that priority will be given to projects at small inland river and coastal ports and terminals, as described in 46 U.S.C. 54301(b), and to discrete, smaller-scale projects at larger ports and intermodal connections to ports. This program has a statutory non-federal matching requirement, with potential exceptions for small and rural area ports. For-profit recipients are not eligible for funding.
BEST FOR: State and local governments and transportation systems.
- Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Economic Development Initiative (EDI): CPF from this account may be used for economic and community development activities consistent with certain criteria within HUD’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which include: land or site acquisition, demolition or rehabilitation, and construction and capital improvements of public facilities, except for “buildings used for the general conduct of government” (ex. courthouses and town halls). Programmatic and operational expenses are not eligible for funding. Ineligible projects also include museums, memorials, entertainment venues, certain recreational facilities, and health care facilities. EDI projects are not eligible for the reimbursement of expenses for soft costs (planning, administrative) incurred prior to the completion of a grant agreement between HUD and the grantee; a grant agreement and a completed environmental review are necessary for reimbursement of hard costs (construction activities). In a change from FY24 guidance, the only eligible recipients for funding under this account are those listed below—funding for nonprofits is no longer permissible under this account.
BEST FOR: States and the District of Columbia, territories, tribal governments, counties, cities, town parishes, or other local government entities, public colleges, and universities—including community colleges.
Full committee guidance for projects under the Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Subcommittee may be found at the following links:
Transit Infrastructure Project guidance
Highway Infrastructure Project guidance
Airport Improvement Project guidance
Port Infrastructure Development Program Project guidance
Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Project guidance
Community Development Fund—Economic Development
Below are descriptions of the projects submitted for consideration, in alphabetical order by project sponsor:
Underwood's certification forms for the projects listed are available HERE, listed in alphabetical order
Project Title: Bentley Road Pathway Connection
Project Sponsor: Plainfield Park District
Amount Requested: $1,300,000
Address of Sponsor: 23729 W. Ottawa St., Plainfield, IL 60544
Project Description and Justification: This funding would be used for the development of a 6.5-acre property along the DuPage River. This development will create a physical pathway connecting existing local infrastructure to increase residents’ access to economic opportunities. The pathway will serve as a vital link between existing multi-use trails at Riverside Parkway, Sunset Park, and Hammel Woods along the DuPage River corridor.
The pathway itself stretches for approximately 4 uninterrupted miles, connecting populations, downtown areas, parks, recreation areas, small businesses, and employment centers in Will County, Illinois. The project is a good use of taxpayer funds because it will connect multiple communities in the Plainfield, Joliet, and Shorewood area, allowing for an extended safe non-vehicular travel option, and drive economic growth by connecting residents with small businesses and employment centers.
This project has broad support from the local community, including from the Will County Forest Preserve.
Project Title: Center for Parenting Students
Project Sponsor: Waubonsee Community College
Amount Requested: $600,000
Address of Sponsor: Route 47 at Waubonsee Drive, Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Project Description and Justification: This funding request supports the repurposing and conversion of property located on Waubonsee Community College into a place for economic development benefit by serving as a Center for Parenting Students. This center will provide crucial support for student parents, enabling them to balance their academic pursuits with childcare responsibilities.
The center will offer a welcoming and functional environment with designated family-friendly consultation and meeting rooms. Additionally, lactation suites, changing rooms, and a dedicated feeding space will be established to cater to the specific needs of parenting students. Beyond physical resources, the Center will also provide essential support services. This includes access to books, toys, and tablets for children while their parents work on group projects or utilize computers and printers for academic work.
The proposed Center is a good use of taxpayer funds because it leverages existing college resources, to address the childcare needs of this rural community. This project addresses a critical need in the rural Waubonsee community and offers a practical solution, promoting economic development by enabling student parents to pursue higher education and contribute to the workforce.
This project has broad support from the local community, including from the Quad County Urban League.
Project Title: City of Lockport Environmental Infrastructure Program (City of Lockport)
Project Sponsor: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District
Amount Requested: $1,368,950
Address of Sponsor: 231 S. LaSalle Street, Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60604
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used for an environmental infrastructure project authorized under the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 (included in Public Law 117-263) providing funding for technical planning, design, and construction assistance to improve wastewater management, including stormwater management, in the City of Lockport, Illinois. Lockport and the broader Will County region have significant wastewater and water supply treatment, distribution, and infrastructure needs that will be met with funding from this project.
Local infrastructure needs addressed by this project include the Bruce Road & SOS Children Village Utility Improvement Project, which would include the installation of a new lift station to serve the SOS Children Village. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it is authorized under Public Law 117-263 to meet critical wastewater management needs in Lockport. Funding would allow for fewer water and wastewater service interruptions, adequate fire flow, and improved water quality for many years to come.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of Lockport, Will County, and Lockport Township Highway Commissioner.
Project Title: Clean Water Project in Oglesby, IL (City of Oglesby-Watermain Replacement)
Project Sponsor: City of Oglesby
Amount Requested: $928,000
Address of Sponsor: 110 East Walnut Street, Oglesby, IL 61348
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will help to replace 2,100 linear feet of water main lines within the City of Oglesby. The current water infrastructure, comprised of asbestos-cement and/or lead pipes, poses significant risks to the water supply, including lead contamination in drinking water. Investing in this project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it will support public health and will generate long-term cost savings, as preventing asbestos cement and lead contamination can help avoid expensive public health interventions and environmental remediation efforts. Current contamination poses serious health risks to children and pregnant women, placing families in danger.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of Oglesby, the Oglesby Fire Department, former Oglesby City officials, local residents, the Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Corporation of North Central Illinois, and the North Central Illinois Council of Governments Economic Development District.
Project Title: Education for Parents Project
Project Sponsor: Northern Illinois University
Amount Requested: $1,000,000
Address of Sponsor: 1425 W Lincoln Hwy, Dekalb, IL 60115
Priority Project and Justification: This funding will be used to rehabilitate and convert property on Northern Illinois University’s campus into a significantly larger childcare center, addressing the current center’s capacity limitations. The project will create two new classrooms within the Gable Hall Annex. Additionally, funding will cover essential upgrades to ensure a safe and healthy environment for children, including roof, window, and flooring repairs, classroom painting, and a kitchen renovation to meet health department code.
The expanded center will further enhance its curriculum by acquiring a mobile presentation cart. Additionally, playground and outdoor path resurfacing will promote safety and support outdoor learning initiatives. To support the expanded programming and family services, funding will also be used for hiring new personnel. This project is a good use of taxpayer funds because it will further support the needs of parents as they pursue their education.
This project has broad support from the local community, including from the DeKalb Regional Office of Education and DeKalb County Birth to Five.
Project Title: Expanding Hope and Reducing Hunger in La Salle, IL (Illinois Valley Food Pantry)
Project Sponsor: Illinois Valley Food Pantry
Amount Requested: $750,000
Address of Sponsor: 122 Wright Street, LaSalle, IL 61354
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will help to secure a new facility equipped with expanded refrigeration and storage capacity. With these improvements, the Illinois Valley Food Pantry can ensure the availability of both perishable and non-perishable foods for those in need. Moreover, a larger, accessible location will enhance its ability to serve the community effectively, reflecting its commitment to providing essential assistance to all who seek it. With the number of families seeking support increasing, the need for their services has never been greater. Currently serving around 500 families monthly, the pantry is at capacity. Funding is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because without expansion, the Illinois Valley Food Pantry will need to turn away those in need of nourishment and support.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of La Salle, the University of Illinois Extension, Illinois Valley Community College, Representatives from the Illinois State Senate, LaSalle County Board, LaSalle Township, and the City of Peru.
Project Title: Giving Hope A Home Homeless Shelter in Ottawa, IL (Illinois Valley Public Action to Deliver Shelter)
Project Sponsor: Illinois Valley Public Action to Deliver Shelter
Amount Requested: $1,250,000
Address of Sponsor: 1120 Canal Street, Ottawa, IL 61350
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will replace the Ottawa shelter with an 11,264-square-foot building on its current property. This new facility will feature an approved kitchen, expanded dormitories for men and women, individual rooms with private bathrooms, six family rooms, increased office and storage space, a designated children’s area, two larger bathrooms with showers, and a spacious multi-purpose classroom. With more than double the current space and beds, an expanded shelter will improve the basic quality of life and assist in rural America’s development and sustainability. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because an expanded building will significantly enhance IV-PADS' capacity to deliver essential services to the community.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of Ottawa, the Housing Authority for LaSalle County, Representatives from the Illinois State Senate and State House of Representatives, the Ottawa Police Department, the Ottawa Fire Department, and the Tri-County Opportunities Council.
Project Title: Grand Prairie Water Commission Infrastructure Construction for Northern Illinois
Project Sponsor: City of Joliet
Amount Requested: $5,000,000
Address of Sponsor: 150 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL 60432
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will build 4.5 miles of 66-inch diameter underground water transmission main. Once completed, this transmission main will be used to deliver finished drinking water from the Chicago Department of Water Management to communities in the southwest suburbs. The City of Joliet is part of the Grand Prairie Water Commission, a group of six communities that will utilize Lake Michigan as an alternative water source. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it preemptively addresses an imminent water shortage in communities in Northern Illinois. Should a water shortage materialize, it would precipitate both economic and public health crises for the State of Illinois.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of Joliet, the Will County Governmental League, the Village of Channahon, the Village of Romeoville, and the City of Crest Hill.
Project Title: Law Enforcement Collaboration to Prevent Workplace Crime in Will County, IL
Project Sponsor: Joliet Township
Amount Requested: $338,897
Address of Sponsor: 175 W Jefferson St. Joliet, IL 60432
Project Purpose and Justification:
This funding would be used by the government of Joliet Township (JT) for the hiring or contracting of attorneys and project staff dedicated to collaborating with the IL Attorney General’s (ILAG) office and other law enforcement organizations (LEOs) in Will County and surrounding areas to pursue prosecutorial cases concerning workplace crime. The role of these staff will be to build connections between the workforce and local LEOs, connecting credible victims of workplace crime with the ILAG’s office and other relevant LEOs, and assisting in providing law enforcement with critical evidence, including witness testimony.
This project is a good use of federal taxpayer funds because it will bridge the current gap between victims and witnesses of workplace crimes and relevant federal, state, and local LEOs. Local police and law enforcement resources are being stretched thin amid the booming regional growth and this funding is necessary to support their efforts to deter crime in the workplace, prosecute violations, and work productively with the local community.
Project Title: Lead-Free Water Project in Aurora, IL (City of Aurora—Lead Water Service Line Replacement)
Project Sponsor: City of Aurora
Amount Requested: $3,500,000
Address of Sponsor: 44 E. Downer Place, City of Aurora, IL 60507
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will be used to remove and replace all remaining lead water service lines within the City of Aurora’s system, providing safe, potable water. Funding will help to replace an estimated 120 lead service lines for homes across the City, impacting nearly 400 residents. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because lead contamination in drinking water presents significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Proactively addressing this issue by replacing lead service lines will mitigate these risks and safeguard public health.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of Aurora, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, and local residents.
Project Title: Reducing Recidivism and Supporting Reentry in Will County, IL
Project Sponsor: Will County Workforce Services Division—LWIA—10
Amount Requested: $600,000
Address of Sponsor: 2400 Glenwood Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
Project Purpose and Justification:
This project will provide work training services to justice impacted individuals, increasing safety and reducing the recidivism rate in Will County, IL. The program will offer participants the option to participate in work-based training or education, or to receive work-based training that leads to full-time employment. Through this program, formerly incarcerated individuals will obtain skills that will help them find and secure meaningful employment.
This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it will help reduce recidivism rates while addressing labor shortage issues by supporting justice impacted individuals in their search for gainful employment.
This project has broad community support, including from the Joliet Township Government and local businesses.
Project Title: Securing A Sustainable Water Source in Oswego, IL
Project Sponsor: Village of Oswego
Amount Requested: $2,640,000
Address of Sponsor: 100 Parkers Mill, Oswego, IL 60543
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will ensure the communities of Montgomery, Oswego, and Yorkville connect to and draw drinking water from Lake Michigan starting in 2027 because of the expected depletion of the communities’ current water source. Funding will support the construction of the three receiving stations, which are integral to the success of the Lake Michigan Water Source Project. The receiving stations will enable the municipalities to store and prepare for a new safe water source. Each City requires one receiving station to prepare and store safe water for the communities and to establish a proper connection with the DuPage Water Commission and Lake Michigan.
The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it will ensure the municipalities will have a stable water source and water infrastructure necessary for the community’s public health and to sustain a growing economy.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Village of Oswego, the DuPage Water Commission, the Village of Montgomery, and the City of Yorkville.
Project Title: Senior Outreach and Care Project
Project Sponsor: White Oak Library District
Amount Requested: $3,000,000
Address of Sponsor: 201 W. Normantown Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446
Project Description and Justification: This funding will be used for the construction of a new building for the Outreach Services Department at the Crest Hill Branch Library. This expansion will allow the library to significantly enhance its outreach services in Will County, Illinois. The funding will be allocated towards the construction itself, hiring two additional staff members to support the new location’s expanded services, and purchasing three computer workstations and essential technology like chargers and keyboards.
Additionally, the funding will support the acquisition of a bookmobile to continue outreach efforts outside the library’s physical location, and the purchase of additional books for circulation. This project is a good use of taxpayer funds because it will expand a successful program that is providing seniors with access to literature, technology for work, and ultimately creating a safe space for the community to utilize.
This project has broad support from the local community, including from the Mayor of Romeoville, Mayor of Crest Hill, and Mayor of Lockport.
Project Title: Shab-eh-nay Tribal Administration Buildings (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation)
Project Sponsor: Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
Amount Requested: $1,210,914
Address of Sponsor: 16281 Q Road Mayetta, Kansas 66509
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding will support the rehabilitation and conversion of property located on the Nation’s land in DeKalb, IL into essential community facilities including governmental office space for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and their neighbors. It will further contribute to the development of this rural community by allowing the Nation to have a structured and orderly place to conduct its government business and provide services to residents. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it will support positive relations and governance for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and their neighbors. This project is a crucial investment that will support the Nation as they come together to assist in governing this rural community and further building relations with residents and neighbors.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the City of DeKalb, Representatives from the Illinois State Senate and State House of Representatives, and the Village of Shabbona.
Project Title: Strengthening Rural Healthcare for Farmers and Families in Mendota, IL (Mendota Health Center)
Project Sponsor: Community Health Partnership of Illinois
Amount Requested: $1,250,000
Address of Sponsor: 205 West Randolph Street, Suite 1340, Chicago, IL 60606
Project Purpose and Justification: The funding will build an expanded Mendota Health Center. The Community Health Partnership of Illinois (CHP) will transform the 10,666-square-foot warehouse into an expanded Mendota Health Center with much-needed space for medical, dental, and behavioral health services. The proposed health center will house 25 employees and serve over 6,000 individuals needing accessible, quality primary care services. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because the Mendota Health Center serves as a lifeline for a rural community heavily reliant on agriculture, with over 98% of patients falling at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. It not only improves the basic quality of life for residents but also fosters economic growth and community resilience.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the LaSalle County Health Department, Northern Illinois University, and the Youth Service Bureau of Illinois Valley.
Financial Disclosure Certification and Federal Nexus Statements
Below are descriptions of the 15 projects selected for submission for FY2024:
Underwood's certification forms for the projects listed are available HERE, listed in alphabetical order
Project Title: Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry Renovation - Reaching New Heights
Project Sponsor: Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry
Amount Requested: $650,000
Address of Sponsor: 1110 Jericho Rd, Aurora, IL 60506
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to renovate and upgrade the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry’s facility, allowing them to expand their operations and improve accessibility to their services. The renovations would include: installation of an elevator in order to utilize the second floor of the pantry; ADA improvements to the entrance and entire facility; purchase and installation of programmable outdoor LED signage to publicize important information; buildout of the second floor to include a meeting room, computer lab, and clothes closet; purchase of a commercial washer/dryer; and improvements to the kitchen for cooking classes. This project will allow the Food Pantry to expand the services it provides, including mental health assistance, career readiness, and cooking classes – addressing the underlying causes of food insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and lack of housing.
Project Title: City of Crest Hill Corrosion Control Treatment Study
Project Sponsor: City of Crest Hill
Amount Requested: $200,000
Address of Sponsor: 1610 Plainfield Rd, Crest Hill, IL 60403
Project Purpose and Justification: As Crest Hill prepares for a new drinking water source, this project would fund a study to ensure the town’s existing water pipes are compatible with the new water. Specifically, this study will examine how the switch will affect lead and copper solubility in the pipes, and ultimately, in the water itself. Crest Hill is part of the Grand Prairie Water Commission, which is converting to Lake Michigan’s water to meet daily needs by 2030. This study is an important step in the transition that will ensure the community continues to have safe drinking water.
Project Title: New High Producing Water Well
Project Sponsor: City of La Salle
Amount Requested: $1,500,000
Address of Sponsor: 745 2nd St, La Salle, IL 61301
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to construct a new, high producing well near the water treatment plant, outside of the floodplain, which will allow for accessibility during an emergency and or flooding. The City currently has five operating wells, all located near the Illinois River in a FEMA-established floodplain. The existing wellheads are not accessible during periods of flooding, causing significant issues if one of the larger producing wells fails. A new well will draw water from a different aquifer than the existing wellfield, diversifying the water supply. This project will help ensure residents have a safe, reliable drinking water supply and fire protection.
Project Title: North Fire & Ambulance Station
Project Sponsor: City of Ottawa
Amount Requested: $1,554,000
Address of Sponsor: 301 W Madison St, Ottawa, IL 61350
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to construct a new Fire and Ambulance Station in the northern area of the City of Ottawa. This area is too far from the downtown fire station and experiences substandard emergency response times, and emergency vehicles are frequently blocked by trains. A new fire station is needed to improve response times, better protect residents, and allow industrial development to move forward safely.
Project Title: Joliet Youth Innovation Center, Inspiring Curiosity and Expanding Childcare Access
Project Sponsor: Greater Joliet Area YMCA
Amount Requested: $850,000
Address of Sponsor: 749 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to renovate approximately 4,000 square feet of youth classrooms at the Joliet Salvation Army Corps Center to establish the Joliet Salvation Army – YMCA Youth Innovation Center, created in partnership between the YMCA and Salvation Army in Joliet. The Center would host after-school childcare, summer day camp, and STEAM enrichment programming. This site has temporarily hosted YMCA out-of-school-time programs; however, facility improvements are needed to make this a permanent offering. The project will include repair or replacement of HVAC systems, repair and resealing of the parking lot, classroom renovations, security system upgrades, and the purchase of fixtures, furniture, and equipment.
Project Title: Supportive Services for Sexual Assault Victims
Project Sponsor: Guardian Angel Community Services
Amount Requested: $477,376
Address of Sponsor: 168 North Ottawa Street; Joliet, IL 60432
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used by Guardian Angel Community Services for six full-time staff positions; office equipment, supplies, and related expenditures at the organization’s primary Sexual Assault Service Center and two satellite locations; and the maintenance of a 24-hour hotline for survivors of sexual assault. The project will allow Guardian Angel Community Services to provide critical victims’ services – including counseling, medical and legal advocacy, case management, a 24-hour hotline, and educational and informational services – to survivors of any type of sexual violence and their non-offending significant others. The project will also support partnerships with local schools, the Will County Adult Detention Facility, and the River Valley Juvenile Justice Center to provide age-appropriate sexual abuse prevention education.
Project Title: Hinckley Public Library Renovation
Project Sponsor: Hinckley Public Library District
Amount Requested: $1,064,000
Address of Sponsor: 100 Maple St, Hinckley IL 60520
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to complete the second phase of the rehabilitation and renovation of the new home of the Hinckley Public Library: a 6,000-square-foot building in the heart of downtown Hinckley. Currently, the Library is located in a basement almost half that size with a leaky foundation and poor sound control. This location limits access for library patrons with mobility challenges and lacks dedicated spaces for patrons and staff. The new building has been donated to the library and needs comprehensive renovations to ensure it is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges and to address asbestos and mold. The new renovated building will be accessible for patrons with disabilities and have dedicated youth and teen spaces, meeting spaces for local business owners, public computers and study rooms, and programming to serve the community. The project will include roof replacement; new electrical service and infrastructure; new fire alarm system; new mechanical systems; and interior renovations, including walls, restrooms, flooring, furniture, and fixtures. This will allow the library to move into its new home.
Project Title: Training Activity Operations Apron at Lewis University Airport (LOT) Chicago-Romeoville
Project Sponsor: Joliet Regional Port District
Amount Requested: $1,552,500
Address of Sponsor: #1 Executive Terminal, George J. Michas Drive, Romeoville, IL 60446
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to expand the available aircraft staging and operating apron pavement area for the growing pilot flight training schools at Lewis University Airport Chicago-Romeville (LOT). It will include a new asphalt transition pavement and new PCC apron pavement. LOT has historically served as the location of the South Chicago Metro area's main flight training base. With additional space, the training activities will be able to operate more safely and efficiently, reduce lost time, eliminate wasted operating fuel, and importantly, serve additional students annually. By increasing the number of training spots available, this project will help address our nation's pilot shortage. The project also has committed support of the Illinois Department of Transportation.
Project Title: Kendall County Food Pantry Infrastructure Improvement
Project Sponsor: Kendall County Community Food Pantry
Amount Requested: $763,500
Address of Sponsor: 208 Beaver St, Yorkville, IL 60560
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to rehabilitate the Kendall County Community Food Pantry facility to provide a more accessible and energy efficient environment for their food distribution services. To make the environment safer, the flooring will be improved. Currently the flooring is unsealed concrete with divots, holes, and contraction joints. This surface can be difficult to walk on and poses a potential hazard, especially for those with walkers, wheelchairs, or canes. Emergency pathway lighting will be installed to improve lighting to emergency exits. The facility will be made more accessible through the installation of handicap entry doors for persons with disabilities or other mobility issues. The project will improve energy efficiency through re-fixturing and installation of LED lighting; conversion of the facility to solar energy through the installation of a rooftop PV array; and the completion of exterior insulation and water-resistant finishing on the east side of the building to reduce air infiltration.
Project Title: Closing the Critical Skills Gap in Next-Generation Semiconductor Manufacturing
Project Sponsor: Lewis University
Amount Requested: $950,000
Address of Sponsor: One University Parkway, Romeoville, IL 60446
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to redesign curricula and purchase equipment to complete the transformation of a state-of-the-art semiconductor innovation and workforce development center on the campus of Lewis University. The additional courses and on-site internship opportunities with scientists and engineers through the innovation and workforce development center would prepare students for careers at leading-edge semiconductor research and manufacturing companies. The project would also allow the university to expand its partnerships with local middle schools, high schools, tech schools, vocational schools, and community colleges to increase interest in STEM subjects. The project is a good use of taxpayer funds because it will grow the future workforce for semiconductor research and manufacturing, meeting a critical need for American competitiveness in the 21st century. One recent study estimated that the semiconductor workforce will need to grow by more than 1 million additional skilled workers by 2030. This project will prepare local students to fill these critical positions and revitalize technology and manufacturing sectors in Illinois and across the United States.
Project Title: Pace Electric Bus - Plainfield, IL
Project Sponsor: Pace Bus - Heritage Division
Amount Requested: $1,280,000
Address of Sponsor: 550 W. Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used by Pace Suburban Bus for the purchase of an electric bus for their fleet. This vehicle would be used in their I-55 express bus service and operated from Heritage Division in Plainfield. The vehicle would serve passengers boarding in Plainfield and other southwest suburbs as they travel to downtown Chicago. Adequate charging infrastructure will be in place at the facility by the time the vehicle would be purchased and delivered to Pace. This project will further Pace's commitment to transition to a zero-emission fleet by 2040. Pace Suburban Bus is the only transit option for much of the Chicago suburbs and exurbs, serving seniors, those with disabilities, and veterans accessing VA care. The project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it contributes to a strong suburban transit system and reduces health risks from air pollution.
Project Title: Building New Beginnings Emergency Shelter for Victims of Violence in DeKalb County, Illinois
Project Sponsor: Safe Passage, Inc.
Amount Requested: $2,500,000
Address of Sponsor: PO Box 621, DeKalb, IL 60115
Project Purpose and Justification: This project would provide construction funding for a 24/7 emergency shelter serving victims of domestic, sexual, and dating violence, as well as stalking and human trafficking, in DeKalb County and the surrounding community. Funding will be used for improvements that will promote ADA accessibility; reduce the number of people in danger who need to be turned away due to a lack of space; increase privacy and safety for survivors in the shelter; provide space for additional legal and medical advocacy, counseling, and case management services; and expand capacity for support services offered to the children of domestic violence survivors. Over the past three years, the capacity limitations of Safe Passage’s current facility have forced the organization to turn away hundreds of adults and children. This project will allow Safe Passage to serve more DeKalb County-area victims of violence and community members in need of emergency shelter and services.
Project Title: Lockport, Illinois
Project Sponsor: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District
Amount Requested: $1,875,000
Address of Sponsor: 231 S. LaSalle St. Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60604
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used for an environmental infrastructure project authorized under the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 for technical planning, design, and construction assistance to improve wastewater management, including stormwater management, in the city of Lockport, Illinois. Lockport and the broader Will County region have significant wastewater and water supply treatment, distribution, and infrastructure needs that will be met with funding from this project. One example of an environmental infrastructure need in Lockport is the Bruce Road & SOS Children’s Village Utility Improvement Project, which would include the installation of a new lift station to serve the SOS Children’s Village – a nonprofit organization that provides care for orphaned and abandoned children – and the surrounding community. This project would meet critical wastewater management needs in Lockport and beyond, with a particular focus on underserved children in the Will County community. As noted by the Lockport Township Highway Commissioner and Director of Public Utilities for the City of Joliet in their letters of support for the project, this funding would allow for fewer water and wastewater service interruptions, adequate fire flow, and improved water quality for many years to come.
Project Title: Elevated Water Tank Rehabilitation
Project Sponsor: Village of Newark
Amount Requested: $369,000
Address of Sponsor: PO Box 270, 101 W Lions St, Newark, IL 60541
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used for a full rehabilitation and painting of the Village’s existing 50,000-gallon elevated water storage tank, including lead paint removal containment and disposal. This project is necessary to ensure Newark residents and businesses have access to a safe and reliable water supply. Newark is a small community— with about 1000 residents, including many low-income families. Utility fees are regressive, and the Village does not have the means to set water fees on an “ability to pay” basis. This funding would greatly mitigate the burden that the costs of this necessary maintenance could place on vulnerable families. Being a small village, Newark is challenged to set aside and accumulate funds for major infrastructure expenditures.
Project Title: Village of Romeoville Spangler Sanitary Lift Station Replacement
Project Sponsor: Village of Romeoville
Amount Requested: $1,580,000
Address of Sponsor: 1050 W. Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL 60446
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would help Romeoville replace their sanitary lift station. The existing 60-year-old lift station has been subject to severe corrosion, and the deficiencies cause wastewater to occasionally back up into homes and businesses. This project addresses the clear health and environmental hazards of wastewater exposure for the nearly 10,000 residents served by the lift station, as well as businesses and customers in the downtown area, and patrons of the public facilities served by the station, including recreational facilities, schools, and a library.
Financial Disclosure Certification and Federal Nexus Statements
Below are descriptions of the 15 projects selected for submission for FY2023:
Underwood's certification forms for the projects listed are available HERE, listed in alphabetical order
Project Title: Aunt Martha's Integrated Practice Unit for Adolescent Health – Woodstock
Project Sponsor: Aunt Martha's Health and Wellness
Amount Requested: $450,000
Address of Sponsor: 19990 Governors Highway, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to renovate Aunt Martha's clinic at Northwestern Medicine Woodstock Hospital and expand access to high-quality mental and behavioral health care. This expansion would enable the facility to serve more than 3,700 youth ages 10-21 in McHenry County and the surrounding area. Currently, adolescents and teenagers in northern Illinois and across the country are experiencing elevated rates of mental health challenges. According to survey data shared by the McHenry County Mental Health Board, more than four in ten high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless during the pandemic. Through the renovated Integrated Practice Unit (IPU) for Adolescent Health, Aunt Martha's Health and Wellness will be able to create six new exam rooms, two new behavioral health offices, a care coordination office, as well as new space dedicated to addressing social determinants of health.
This project has broad support from the local community, including Northwestern Medicine and the McHenry County Mental Health Board.
Project Title: Transparency Equipment Improvement
Project Sponsor: Sandwich Police Department
Amount Requested: $120,459
Address of Sponsor: 308 East College Street, Sandwich, IL 60548
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to purchase in-car cameras for each of the Department's seven squad cars to help improve transparency, accountability, and safety within the department and for the Sandwich community. This funding would also be used to purchase the storage system that will hold data from all police department cameras, including body cameras.
The squad car cameras and storage system will be installed as the first planned phase of implementation. The Department plans to subsequently implement the use of required body-worn cameras; the storage systems for squad and body-worn camera footage will be interoperable.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Sandwich Superintendent of Schools, the Sandwich Chamber of Commerce, and the Sandwich Police Chief.
Project Title: Fabrication and Training Facility for Semiconductor Chips, Advanced Electronics, and Sensor Systems
Project Sponsor: Northern Illinois University (NIU)
Amount Requested: $1,500,000
Address of Sponsor: 1425 W Lincoln Highway, DeKalb IL, 60115
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to create a 4,200-square-foot microchip innovation and workforce development hub on NIU's campus. This groundbreaking facility would be used for education, research and development, and small business incubation to drive innovation across northern Illinois.
Currently, the U.S. is facing a crippling semiconductor shortage due to the global pandemic and decades of offshoring. Semiconductors enable our everyday electronics to work — like computers, cars, phones, appliances, and medical equipment. This project would help address these challenges by investing in research and development for microchip design and fabrication. It would also introduce innovative and hands-on course curriculum on multiple topics related to microchips at the undergraduate, masters, and Ph.D levels. Furthermore, the hub would serve as an incubator and prototyping facility for high-tech startups and microchip industry-related businesses in the region, benefitting the local and state economy. Given NIU's diverse student body, this project will also provide new opportunities for advanced STEM education for underrepresented populations.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation and local businesses such as Navistar, Inc., Alcorix Co, Woodward, and Flowchips.
Project Title: Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge/Nippersink Creek Restoration Project
Project Sponsor: Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge
Amount Requested: $975,000
Address of Sponsor: P.O. Box 413, Richmond, IL 60071
Project Purpose and Justification: The funding would be used to restore over 100 acres of wetlands and nearly 8,750 feet of headwater streams. The parcel is located within the Tamarack Core area, designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a priority for protection by the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. This restoration is critical so that the land can eventually be protected as part of the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. This project will address soil erosion, improve soil health, improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat, reduce flood damage, and increase resilience to climate change, as well as provide recreational opportunities for the community.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the McHenry County Conservation District, McHenry-Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District, and McHenry County Department of Planning and Development, as well as local conservation organizations such as Openlands, Chicago Wilderness, McHenry County Conservation Foundation, Fox River Ecosystem Partnership, Nippersink Watershed Association, and Environmental Defenders of McHenry County.
Project Title: Hinckley Public Library
Project Sponsor: Hinckley Public Library District
Amount Requested: $2,250,000
Address of Sponsor: 100 Maple Street, Hinckley, IL 60520
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to renovate the new home of the Hinckley public library: a 6,000-square-foot building in the heart of downtown Hinckley at 142 W Lincoln Avenue. Currently, the Hinckley Public Library is located in a basement almost half that size with a leaky foundation and poor sound control. This location limits access for library patrons with mobility challenges and lacks dedicated spaces for patrons and staff. Staff currently have no work or meeting space; the director's office floods during every rain. The new building will serve as a stable long-term anchor in the community.
The new building has been donated to the library and needs comprehensive renovations to ensure it is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges and to address asbestos and mold. The renovated building would be fully ADA-compliant, with ramps and automatic doors, and have larger windows and a workroom for library staff.
According to the library district, without a coffee shop, park district, or recreation center downtown, the library serves as the true community center in Hinckley.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Hinckley Area Food Pantry, Hinckley Historical Society, the Village of Hinckley, Hinckley Public Library District Board member Amie Carey, State Senator Dave Syverson (R), and State Representative Jeff Keicher (R).
Project Title: Huntley Shops on Main
Project Sponsor: Village of Huntley
Amount Requested: $974,843
Address of Sponsor: 10987 Main Street, Huntley, IL 60142
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used for construction and development of the Shops on Main program, facilitated by the Village of Huntley, to provide local entrepreneurs with a starting point to pursue their dreams of operating a physical retail space. The Shops will function as the first step for a business owner who has been running a home-based or internet-based business. This will support small businesses to grow while creating jobs for the community. The preliminary designs for Shops on Main include the construction of 10 buildings on a single site that will be rented to business owners at a price well below market.
Currently, many entrepreneurs in the Huntley area lack the resources to establish a physical retail location. This project will benefit business owners by providing the tools needed to expand existing businesses in an incubator-like environment, allowing the owners to collaborate, learn, and grow together. The increased foot traffic and economic activity it brings to downtown Huntley are also expected to benefit existing businesses and the community as a whole.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce, Huntley Community School District 158, Illinois Small Business Development center at McHenry County College, Huntley Park District, and Naturally McHenry County.
Project Title: Joliet Junior College Entrepreneurial Development Center (EDC)
Project Sponsor: Joliet Junior College (JJC)
Amount Requested: $353,404
Address of Sponsor: 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to relocate JJC's small business support department and enable JJC to increase staffing and services to meet the demand of entrepreneurs in the area. JJC currently has one full-time and one part-time staff member dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs. This funding would allow the Entrepreneurial Development Center (EDC) to hire additional staff to provide one-on-one consultations with entrepreneurs, teach non-credit entrepreneurship and business management courses, and do outreach to educate the community on its services throughout the 1,442-square-mile area it serves. Relocating the EDC to the City Center Campus will place small business support services in the heart of Joliet's downtown and strengthen JJC's collaboration with Joliet City Center Partnership, an organization dedicated to encouraging economic development in Downtown Joliet.
The EDC works directly with new and existing entrepreneurs from the conceptual stage of a business to formal business planning and beyond by assisting entrepreneurs with education, training, and resource identification. The EDC provides no-cost services including workshops and classes, one-on-one business advising, and referral services to assist entrepreneurs with business plan development, small business financing acquisition, marketing strategies, and technical assistance.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Will County Center for Economic Development, Workforce Center of Will County, Workforce Investment Board of Will County, Joliet City Center Partnership, Grundy Economic Development Council, Grundy Livingston Kankakee Workforce Board, Grundy County Chamber of Commerce, and Channahon/Minooka Chamber of Commerce.
Project Title: Kendall County Extension Environmental Impact Statement
Project Sponsor: Kendall County
Amount Requested: $4,800,000
Address of Sponsor: 111 West Fox Street, Yorkville, IL 60560
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used for a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Phase 1 study to evaluate the extension of Metra commuter rail into Kendall County. Currently, Kendall County is not served by Metra commuter rail despite being the fastest-growing county in Illinois. The study is the next step to bring the extension to the county. It would include an environmental impact statement and evaluate a range of possible options for the locations and structure of a potential extension. Additionally, the study will help determine the future governance structure for the extension. The Congresswoman has long supported the expansion of Metra service in Kendall County, which is one of her top transportation priorities.
This project has broad support from the local communities, including Montgomery, Oswego, and Yorkville.
Project Title: Oswego, Montgomery, and Yorkville Corrosion Studies
Project Sponsor: Village of Oswego
Amount Requested: $1,800,000
Address of Sponsor: 100 Parkers Mill Pl, Oswego, IL 60543
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to fund a study to ensure high-quality drinking water and mitigate potential lead exposure ahead of Oswego, Montgomery, and Yorkville switching water sources. Currently, the existing water source is at risk to no longer meet the region's daily water demand as soon as 2030. The three areas joined together and recently designated Lake Michigan as their new water source and DuPage Water Commission as their water supplier. This study will evaluate the new system to ensure safe and clean drinking water for the communities after the transition.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Village President of Oswego, the Mayor of Yorkville, the Village President of Montgomery, and the County Board Chair of Kendall County.
Project Title: Relocation of the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet
Project Sponsor: City of Batavia
Amount Requested: $4,000,000
Address of Sponsor: 100 N. Island Avenue, Batavia, IL 60510
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would allow the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet, a non-profit that's served the community for 40-years, to relocate to a larger space better fit to serve the growing need. Currently, the facility is located in a 3,000-square-foot building with very little room for storage, refrigeration, or display of items. Almost all of their storage is located at an off-site facility, requiring added staff to volunteer hours to transport items between locations. Only 25% of the Clothes Closet inventory can be displayed at any time. The current location also has limited cold storage, restricting the healthier fresh foods that they can offer to their clients. A new 20,000 square feet building will enable them to meet their current and future needs.
This project has broad support from the local community, including State Representative Keith Wheeler (50th District), State Senator Donald DeWitte (33rd District), State Representative Maura Hirschauer (49th District), State Senate Leader Linda Holmes (42nd District), Mayor, City of Batavia – Jeffery D. Schielke, Batavia Public School District 101 Superintendent – Dr. Lisa Hichens, Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia Mainstreet; and 108 other groups.
Project Title: Replace Perimeter Fencing - Phase 1, DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport (DKB), DeKalb, IL
Project Sponsor: City of DeKalb
Amount Requested: $1,125,000
Address of Sponsor: 164 East Lincoln Highway, DeKalb, IL 60115
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to replace the security fence at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport. The new fencing is the first phase of a security upgrade crucial to making the Airport financially viable and maintaining it as a regional economic development engine. The new fence will be a 10-foot high, Class E, chain-link fence topped with three strands of barbed wire. It will also have three feet of pest-deterrent embedded in the ground below. Currently, the airport perimeter is enclosed by a 4-foot-high chain-link fence in poor condition. Perimeter fencing is the primary safety feature preventing pedestrians and vehicles from accessing airport property. Coyote and deer can easily hop the existing fence and are frequently on the airfield, which has caused numerous arrival and departure delays while airport personnel chased the wildlife a safe distance away from runway and taxiway pavements. Animal feces and remains also have to be removed from the pavements multiple times per week. The project will also include replacing the existing hinged gates with updated sliding gates that will provide quicker access for emergency response crews.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation, the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, and the DeKalb Airport Advisory Board Chair.
Project Title: Village of Holiday Hills/Le Villa Vaupell Sanitary Sewer Extension Phase 2
Project Sponsor: Northern Moraine Wastewater Reclamation District
Amount Requested: $2,500,000
Address of Sponsor: 113 Timber Trail, P.O. Box 240, Island Lake, IL 60042
Project Purpose and Justification: Currently, homes in Holiday Hills are connected to private septic systems. Located in the Fox River floodplain, these homes and septic systems are prone to flooding and fecal contamination, creating public health and environmental risks to residents and the surrounding areas. These risks are compounded because the Fox River is a main drinking water source for several communities downstream of Holiday Hills. This funding would be used to purchase sewer lines, manholes, and other needed infrastructure to connect 335 existing homes to a sanitary sewer. By connecting these homes to a sanitary sewer and eliminating private septic systems, this project will provide a healthier environment for the community and a safer source of drinking water for the entire region.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Mayor of the Village of Holiday Hills, and several residents who have written in support of the project.
Project Title: VNA Health Care – New Construction of Community Health Center in Joliet, IL
Project Sponsor: VNA Health Care
Amount Requested: $500,000
Address of Sponsor: 400 N. Highland Avenue, Aurora, IL 60506
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to build a new VNA Health Center in Joliet to meet the growing health care needs in this community. This new health center will be used by VNA doctors and nurses for the delivery of family practice care, obstetrics, pediatric services, and mental and behavioral health care. VNA Health Care serves a racially and ethnically diverse population of more than 74,000 people per year. The health center will be in a highly accessible location and will improve access to care for families who are uninsured or underinsured. Thanks to the funding from this project, VNA Health Care will be able to construct a facility with 24 medical exam rooms, a wellness kitchen, waiting areas, a laboratory, nursing stations, and mental and behavioral health counseling rooms to deliver integrated health care services.
Currently, the Joliet area has shortages of primary care providers as well as mental and behavioral health providers: Will County has a ratio of population to mental and behavioral health provider ratio of 1,010:1 vs. 480:1 for the state of Illinois. By bringing additional doctors and nurses to the community to deliver primary care, obstetrics and pediatric services, mental and behavioral health care, and more, VNA Health Care will fill unmet needs in Joliet and beyond.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Southwest Suburban Immigrant Project; Spanish Community Center; State Representative Lawrence "Larry" Walsh, Jr.; State Senator John R. Connor; and Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant.
Project Title: YMCA Safe 'N Sound Program Expansion
Project Sponsor: YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Amount Requested: $666,366
Address of Sponsor: 1030 W. Van Buren Street, Chicago, IL 60607
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to support the expansion and enhancement of YMCA Safe 'N Sound (SNS) programming at three schools in Aurora West School District 129 and nine schools in Indian Prairie School District 204. SNS supports children in kindergarten through fifth grade with their academic and personal development, and is designed with an emphasis on experiential learning, social and emotional development, and the promotion of healthy living. The programs are provided before and after school, during full-day holidays and in-service days, as well as through engaging summer camp programs. SNS would use this funding to award scholarships to high-need students; increase staffing necessary to expand programing; provide family engagement events; expand SNS's Yoga/Mindfulness/Healthy Living Program by bringing in certified instructors; enhance programming with community partners; and contract for the services of a part-time Social Worker/Behavior Support Manager to ensure better social and emotional well-being for children and families.
Currently, SNS serves nearly 1,000 children, along with their families, across 27 elementary schools in the Naperville, Indian Prairie, and West Aurora School Districts. However, current funding levels are not sufficient to allow SNS to meet the full needs of the community, particularly the most vulnerable and underserved children and families. The funding would help SNS expand their level of service to serve 50% more students in District 129 and 55% more in District 204. YMCA's SNS program has provided Naperville and Aurora school districts with youth-centered enrichment programming for more than thirty years.
This project has broad support from the local community, including from West Aurora School District 129, DuPage Children's Museum, Fox Valley United Way, the Driskill Foundation, and families who have directly benefitted from YMCA's SNS program.
Project Title: YWCA Metropolitan Chicago Childcare Network
Project Sponsor: YWCA Metropolitan Chicago
Amount Requested: $575,000
Address of Sponsor: 1 N. LaSalle, Suite 1700, Chicago, IL 60602
Project Purpose and Justification: This funding would be used to create and administer a childcare network for Illinois' 14th District, consisting of childcare centers and family childcare providers. The intent of this network is to strengthen small childcare businesses, expand childcare system capacity, and improve the quality of care for children in the community. With this funding, YWCA will provide education and resources to network participants to support sustainable business practices and high-quality care in the field of early care and education. Supports and services for participating small childcare businesses include one-on-one advising to develop sustainable business plans, improve care quality, identify and apply for funding opportunities, and improve marketing and enrollment; and wage supplements for educators, so businesses can attract and retain early childhood educators.
Currently, the lack of availability of high quality, affordable childcare is major concern in northern Illinois and across the country. The high cost of quality care and workforce challenges, both exacerbated by the pandemic, make maintaining a sustainable childcare business a considerable challenge.
This project has broad support from the local community, including the Wheaton Warrenville Early Childhood Collaborative, Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (INCCRRA), Kane County Health Department; One Hope United, and local childcare businesses, such as Blocks Learning Academy in Batavia, Little Prince Child Care Center in West Chicago, and the Goddard School in St. Charles.
Financial Disclosure Certification and Federal Nexus Statements