Governor Ryan Announces IL FIRST Funds for Lake Petersburg

LAKE PETERSBURG -- Governor George H. Ryan today presented a $3 million Illinois FIRST check to the community of Lake Petersburg for the construction of a new sewer extension.

"Through Illinois FIRST, we have been able to reach out to communities across the state and help them improve their quality of life," said Governor Ryan. "I commend Representative Poe and Senator Bomke for sponsoring such a valuable project that not only serves the people but helps the environment of the lake."

The lake is now served by individual septic tanks. Studies show that a new sewer system will greatly improve the lake's water and environmental quality. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources believes that replacing the septic tanks along with laying vegetative filter strips will reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus going into Lake Petersburg.

Menard County will administer the funds and oversee the construction this coming spring. Representative Poe sponsored a feasibility project on the impact of the waste treatment plant.

"Illinois FIRST has been very successful in providing local governments the necessary resources to address and correct problems in their communities," Ryan said. "I'm proud of what we've been able to accomplish here in Lake Petersburg and across the state."