Sorensen Secures funding for Northern Illinois projects | Representative Eric Sorensen
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Sorensen Secures funding for Northern Illinois projects

March 12, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) has announced securing over $2.8 million in tax dollars for three vital projects in Northern Illinois, aimed at bolstering community safety, infrastructure, and clean water access. 

“Northern Illinois is a special place, and it is my job to make sure my neighbors can live and grow a family in communities that are sustainable for future generations.

One of the ways I can make sure that happens is by bringing tax dollars back home to support middle-class families,” said Sorensen. “By working across the aisle, I was able to secure over $2.8 million for Northern Illinois to fund our police, repair broken bridges to increase safety, and help ensure that when you turn on the faucet, you have access to clean drinking water. I am grateful to our local partners who helped advocate for these investments that will have a positive impact on the lives of so many of our neighbors.”

The projects include funding for the Winnebago County Regional Police Training Center, aimed at enhancing officer training and community connections, the replacement of the 8th Avenue Bridge over Keith Creek in Rockford to improve pedestrian access and school bus routes, and the rehabilitation of wells in Freeport to restore clean drinking water access. 

Training Resources For Winnebago County Police: Sorensen allocated $847,000 for the Winnebago County  Regional Police Training Center to purchase essential training equipment. This investment aims  to enhance officer capabilities and strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Bridge Replacement over Keith Creek in Rockford: Addressing safety concerns and infrastructure deficiencies, Sorensen secured $1 million to replace the 8th Avenue Bridge over Keith Creek in Rockford. This project aims to improve pedestrian access to a nearby elementary school and upgrade outdated water mains, ensuring reliable water service for residents. 

Clean Drinking Water Infrastructure for the City of Freeport: $959,752 was designated to replace contaminated wells in Freeport, restoring access to clean drinking water for local families and supporting the city-s infrastructure improvement efforts. 

Local officials expressed gratitude for Sorensen's advocacy and the impact of the funding on their communities. Winnebago County Board Chairman Joseph Chiarelli praised the investment in police training, highlighting its potential to enhance public safety. 

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara emphasized the significance of bridge replacement funding, noting its role in improving community connectivity and infrastructure. 

Similarly, Freeport Mayor Jodi Miller expressed appreciation for the funding, emphasizing its crucial role in ensuring clean water access for residents.

These projects were secured through  the Community Project Funding process. allowing members of Congress to advocate for critical initiatives in their communities. The funding for these projects was included in House spending legislation signed into law by the President this past weekend.