$2.2 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for DuPage County

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $2.29 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in DuPage County, including $1.3 million to the Elmhurst Park District to redevelop Plunkett Park/Courts Plus.

The improvements will include an addition and modification to Courts Plus, construction of a concession /restroom building and pedestrian walkway and additional parking. The park district provides public services to 40,000 area residents. The park district is contributing $200,000.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by House Republican Leader Lee Daniels, Elmhurst.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $250,000 to the Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilities to implement the DuPage Work Services Initiative.
  This project was initiated by Daniels.

• $250,000 to DuPage Easter Seals to purchase equipment and supplies for its facility.
  This project was initiated by Daniels.

• $150,000 to the Itasca Fire Protection District to purchase a new fire truck and equipment. The village is contributing $318,529.
  This project was initiated by Senate President James "Pate" Phillip, R-Wood Dale.

• $100,000 to the Addison Fire Protection District to purchase fire safety equipment.
  This project was initiated by Daniels.

• $50,000 to the Lombard Park District to purchase and install new playground equipment at Sunset Knoll Recreation Center. The district is contributing $20,000.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. Dan Cronin, R-Elmhurst.

• $50,000 to the Roselle Park District to construct and install new playground equipment at Goose Lake Community Park.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Kathleen L. "Kay" Wojcik, R-Schaumburg.

• $50,000 to the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists to purchase equipment and supplies.
  This project was initiated by Daniels.

• $35,000 to the Family Counseling Service of Aurora to remodel and refurbish its facility at 70 South River Street in Aurora. The city is contributing $300,000.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Tom Cross, R-Oswego.

• $25,000 to Roselle Historical Foundation to renovate the historic Richter House.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. Doris C. Karpiel, R-Carol Stream.

• $20,000 to the Aurora Township Road District to construct a sidewalk along South Farnsworth Avenue to serve the students of Allen School.
  This project was initiated by Cross.

• $10,000 to Oak School, Hinsdale to purchase computers for the technology laboratory. The district is contributing $14,000.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Patricia "Patti" Bellock, R-Hinsdale.