$1.7 Million in Illinois FIRST Projects for Southwestern Illinois

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $1.7 million in Illinois FIRST funding for projects in Southwestern Illinois, including $393,000 to the City of Mascoutah to construct a new indoor pool and an adjoining recreation complex, and for the renovation of existing facilities.

Renovation will include landscaping, the replacement of a toddler pool, new concrete decking and a canopy.

This Illinois FIRST project was initiated by State Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Troy.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $200,000 to the Cahokia Fire Protection District to purchase an early warning system and fire equipment.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. James F. Clayborne, Jr., D-Belleville.

• $200,000 to the City of Mascoutah to assist with the renovation and upgrade of the city's swimming facilities in Sheve Park.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. Frank C. Watson, R-Greenville.

• $194,000 to the City of Highland to improve Troxler Road in order to relieve traffic congestion and enhance safety.
  This project was initiated by Stephens.

• $150,000 to the Bubblemaster Under Water Recovery Team in Edwardsville to purchase a van, boat, radios and dive equipment. A building for training and educational purposes will also be constructed.
  This project was initiated by State Sen. Evelyn M. Bowles, D-Edwardsville.

• $150,000 to the City of Edwardsville to extend a Streetscape Project along Illinois Route 159.
  This project was initiated by Bowles.

• $89,000 to the Dupo Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a thermal imaging camera, self contained breathing apparatus, protective clothing and to make necessary repairs to the engine house.
  This project was initiated by Clayborne.

• $80,000 to the City of Alton to purchase furnishings and window treatments for the Humboldt School apartments.
  This project was initiated by Bowles.

• $50,000 to Belleville Township to make improvements at the Belleville Visitors Center and Labor & Industry Museum.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Thomas Holbrook, D-Belleville.

• $50,000 to Belleville Township to upgrade the American Legion Baseball Field.
  This project was initiated by Holbrook.

• $43,000 to the Caseyville Fire Association to purchase equipment for a new rescue truck.
  This project was initiated by Clayborne.

• $40,000 to the Clin Clair Volunteer Fire Protection District to purchase a new fire truck.
  This project was initiated by Stephens.

• $25,000 to the Germantown Park District for the rehabilitation of the Germantown Park District lake and adjacent areas.
  This project was initiated by Watson.

• $10,000 to the Alhambra Community Fire Department to purchase equipment such as a multi-gas monitor kit and an electric fire alarm for the fire station.
  This project was initiated by Watson.

• $10,000 to the Alton Fire Department to purchase new trench rescue gear.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Steve Davis, D-Bethalto.

• $10,000 to the Collinsville Memorial Library to improve the accessibility and security of the library by adding security cameras and door alarms.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Jay C. Hoffman, D-Collinsville.

• $10,000 to the Mitchell Fire Protection District to purchase a new thermal image camera.
  This project was initiated by Davis.

• $10,000 to Southern Illinois University to construct a camp dispensary and staff quarters at Camp I at Touch of Nature Environmental Center.
  This project was initiated by Hoffman.