Stadelman announces nearly $150,000 in state funds for bike path rebuild

Emphasizing the importance of state support for community development, State Senator Steve Stadelman announced this week that $146,000 in grants are being awarded to upgrade the Sportscore One Recreation Path.

“Keeping this pathway open is important to residents who use and enjoy it every day," Stadelman said of trail that runs from the Harlem Toll Bridge to Elmwood Road on Rockford's northwest side. "The planned improvements will increase community engagement and activity and provide a safer route for bicyclists."

State funds will be used to reconstruct a mile-long section of pavement with appropriate drainage, and four bridges will be treated for rust removal to prolong their lives and allow the path to remain open.

“Encouraging people to get outside and use bikeways reduces our environmental impact," Stadelman said, "and promotes outdoor activities to help people stay happy and healthy.”

To learn more about the Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program and grantees, visit the
 IDNR website.



Electric vehicle rebate process opens Nov. 1

The state's next EV Rebate Program funding round opens November 1, 2023 and runs until January 31, 2024. Illinois residents purchasing a new or used all-electric passenger vehicles or all-electric motorcycles from an Illinois licensed dealer are eligible for rebates of $4,000 and $1,500 respectively.

View instructions and download applications on the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency's Electric Vehicle Rebate website.

Funding for the round is limited to low-income applicants who are given priority for rebates. 
Applications will not be accepted or reviewed if postmarked prior to November 1, 2023. 

EV rebates are subject to the availability of funds for each cycle. Because of a high level of interest in the program, IEPA anticipates $12 million in available funds being exhausted before the close of the application window January 31, 2024. Applicants must apply during the rebate cycle window and within 90 days of purchase of the vehicle.

Other requirements include:

  • Purchaser must reside in Illinois at time of vehicle purchase and at the time the rebate is issued.

  • An applicant may not previously have received an Electric Vehicle Rebate.

  • Vehicle must be purchased from a dealer located in Illinois and licensed by the Illinois Secretary of State.
    • Rented or leased vehicles do not qualify for the rebate.
    • Vehicles purchased from an out-of-state dealership, and vehicles delivered to or received by the purchaser out-of-state are not eligible for a rebate.

In case you missed me on Facebook ...

Steve Stadelman
October 20 at 9:19 AM

More than half of veterans dealing with mental illness and more than 90 percent of veterans with a substance-abuse disorder didn't receive treatment last year. These are alarming figures that illustrate the unmet needs facing our veterans. It was my honor to participate in a Saluting Veterans event organized by Rosecrance at its Griffin Williamson Campus. We heard compelling personal stories from veterans and toured the Florian Program, which provides mental health treatment for veterans and first responders.

 

Steve Stadelman
October 16 at 7:29 PM

The Better Business Bureau of Chicago & Northern Illinois has been helping consumers for 35 years! I was pleased to present an Illinois Senate Proclamation congratulating the Rockford BBB on its anniversary.

  

 

Steve Stadelman
October 15 at 7:41 PM

A unique event at RPS 205's Flinn Middle School. It's "Human Library" gave students a chance to share personal experiences in an open and safe environment and engage in meaningful conversations.

Julianne Elliott

First hand opportunities for these kids! Thank you, Senator!

Katy Rourke Abbott

Keep up the good work you do, Steve!

Martine Accilien Schultheis

What a fabulous idea