Ryan Announces Illinois FIRST Funds For Cortland

SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan today announced his approval of $445,600 in Illinois FIRST funds for roadway improvements to accommodate a new firm locating in Cortland.

The funds will provide half of the costs for engineering and reconstruction of 2,350 feet of North Street in Cortland to accommodate the new facilities of Sci-Tech Building Systems.

"The creation of 54 new jobs in Cortland and DeKalb County is an important addition to the area's economic base," Ryan said. "Through Illinois FIRST, we're able to make the necessary transportation upgrades that are attracting new businesses to Illinois."

Sci-Tech Buildings System will build a $4 million facility in Cortland. The firm will make a hi-tech, pre-fab building wall that is stronger and lighter than a standard wall. Work on the facility will begin this summer and will be in operation later this year.

Illinois FIRST will provide $397,600 in Economic Development Program funds and $48,000 in Truck Access Route Program funds for the state's share of the roadway work. The funds are administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The programs specifically target transportation improvements to help communities retain or attract new businesses and associated jobs.