Governor's budget makes best out of bad situation

State Senator Steve Stadelman released the following statement in response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s annual budget address this week:

"The governor's proposed budget recognizes the realities of the state's fiscal situation. In these trying times, we need to make sure we take care of our most vulnerable. I was pleased to see additional resources to help the state provide unemployment benefits and meal delivery services for seniors. While I don't agree with every aspect of this plan, I believe it attempts to make the best out of a difficult situation."

Stadelman secures $3.2 million for Davis Park renovation

State Senator Steve Stadelman announced this week he has secured more than $3 million in Build Illinois capital funds for the redevelopment of Davis Park in downtown Rockford, beginning with $250,000 to install boat docks this summer.

"Boat docks are a preliminary step in a longer-term redesign of Davis Park that capitalizes on the opening of the new hotel and can happen now while longer-term planning takes place," Stadelman said. "Maximizing use of prime riverfront is critical to the continued progress of our region's urban core."

Public excitement around the opening of Embassy Suites by Hilton in the long-vacant, 13-story former Amerock factory was evident even with capacity limitations imposed by the COVID-`9 pandemic, Stadelman said, and it is important to keep up the momentum.

"When people walked into the lobby or went up to the rooftop deck, they took photos like tourists because they saw what Rockford can become and they believe in the potential of a revitalized downtown."

The initial $250,000 state investment would pay for the installation of floating piers where up to 16 boats could dock temporarily. Stadelman has earmarked another $3 million toward a full reimagination of the park once the City of Rockford settles on a master plan and resolves the question of demolishing or repurposing the Lorden Building, another vacant industrial space that has served as a concert backdrop for nearly 30 years.

Read more in the Rockford Register Star.

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Steve Stadelman

Congratulations to my legislative colleague, State Rep. Dave Vella, and his chief of staff, Ricardo Montoya Picazo, on the grand opening of his 68th District office at 4007 N. Mulford Road in Loves Park!