Governor announces over $258,000 for City of Olney

CHICAGO - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today awarded $258,477 in grants to the City of Olney for the new fire station at 501 North Walnut Street. The funds are the final installments on two $375,000 grants. The new station is twice as large as a previous facility.

 

"I'm pleased to be able to provide the City of Olney with these funds to help meet the community's public safety needs," said Governor Blagojevich.  "It's important to note that in addition to improving conditions for Olney firefighters, this new facility provides training areas for other local fire departments and rural fire districts."

 

The 11,500 square foot fire station accommodates the larger size of newer firefighting vehicles and provides for adequate venting of truck exhaust fumes, a potentially hazardous situation that exists at the current station.

 

"This project will improve the conditions for our firefighters, and improve the services provided to the City of Olney," said State Representative Bill Grunloh, who represents Olney.  The project was sponsored and supported by former State Senator Bill O'Daniel, former State Representative Chuck Hartke, and State Senator John O. Jones.