ROCKFORD – In an effort to spur economic development in the region, State Senator Steve Stadelman announced that a $1.9 million grant has been awarded to the Rockford area for bridge and water main repairs.

Funding is supported by the Rebuild Illinois statewide construction plan and will be used to speed up public works projects and long-term infrastructure improvements in underserved communities around the state. The grants are being released as part of $24.8 million in funding from the Fast-Track Public Infrastructure Capital program, with $14.7 million for projects located in Opportunity Zones.

“I’m thrilled the City of Rockford was able to secure funding from this grant program to improve local bridges and water mains,” Stadelman said. “We have to keep our infrastructure in good repair to keep people safe.”

A $1.9 million investment from a Opportunity Zone grant will fund Rockford area bridge repair projects in its communities. The projects will include private matching funds that will support developments linked to affordable housing, community development, and real estate projects.

"Grants like these allow us to stretch our infrastructure budget farther in this difficult economic time and complete projects that greatly impact our residents,” said Mayor Thomas P. McNamara, City of Rockford.

Opportunity Zones are considered economically underserved areas in the community. More on the Opportunity Zones can be found HERE.