Ryan: $368,500 in Illinois FIRST Projects for Chicago's North and Northwest Suburbs

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan announced today that he is releasing $368,500 in Illinois FIRST funding for projects for Chicago's north and northwest suburbs, including $100,000 to the Winnetka Park District for improvements to Elder Lane Park.

The park was first developed in the 1920s and the grant will be used to upgrade playground facilities, picnic tables, a beach house, improvements to a pier and repairs to make sure all facilities are compliant with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

This Illinois First project was initiated by State Sen. Kathleen Parker, R-Northfield.

Other Illinois FIRST grants announced by Ryan:

• $90,000 to Elk Grove Village to purchase 22 sets of video recording equipment for the village's police cars.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Terry Parke, R-Hoffman Estates.

• $75,000 to Shore Community Services, Inc. for building improvements. The non-profit organization provides educational, residential and vocational services to persons with developmental disabilities.
  This project was initiated by Parker.

• $34,000 to Wilpower, Inc. for building improvements. The non-profit organization provides rehabilitation, outreach and support services for people with mental illnesses.
  This project was initiated by Parker.

• 25,000 to the Des Plaines Park District to help construct a new building that will be used as a concession stand for youth baseball and a warming house for ice skaters at West Park. The district will contribute $80,000.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Rosemary Mulligan, R-Park Ridge.

• $20,000 to the National Lekotek Center to help support four early childhood education programs in the Evanston area.
  This project was initiated by State Rep. Jeffrey Schoenburg, D-Evanston.

• $15,000 to the Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts to produce a multi-media fire prevention educational program that targets fires set by juveniles.
  This project was initiated by Parke.

• $9,500 to Haven Youth & Family to replace and upgrade equipment and furniture that was damaged in a flood. This non-profit organization provides services to young adults, including help for youths who have run away or have been abused.
  This project was initiated by Parker.