Sorensen Announces $25 Million for Infrastructure Upgrades in Galesburg

GALESBURG, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) today joined local leaders to announce $25 million in federal funding for major infrastructure upgrades in Galesburg, expected to bring new businesses and good-paying jobs to the area. Sorensen, along with Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, pushed for the funding that will help improve quality of life for families in the region.

“This is more than an infrastructure win for Galesburg—it’s about creating good jobs, opening markets for farmers, and boosting opportunities for local businesses and families,” said Sorensen. “By bringing tax dollars home to upgrade transportation and give businesses the tools to grow, we’re building a stronger, brighter future for Galesburg.”

“The City of Galesburg is thankful for the support of Congressman Sorensen, which made this substantial grant possible,” said Eric Hanson, Galesburg City Manager. “Thanks to the support of the US Department of Transportation and our legislators, our rural community can finally realize the long-term goal of developing our business park with the infrastructure necessary to spur development and opportunity for our community.”

“The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development wishes to thank Congressman Sorensen for his leadership and support for this important transportation funding. The Congressman and his team worked closely with us throughout this multi-year process and helped make this win possible. We also want to thank Senators Durbin and Duckworth and Congressman LaHood for their support for this project. This is a great team win for West-Central Illinois,” said Ken Springer, President of The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development. 

The funding, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), will build a new rail track in the Galesburg Business Park and make key upgrades to the park. This project will support the creation of a new facility that will export local agricultural goods, making it easier for farmers to get their products to market. By improving transportation connections, it will also help attract new businesses to the region.

The improvements will make Galesburg an even more attractive location for new industries, especially those in agriculture. With better access to rail lines and highways, the city is well-positioned for economic growth and new job opportunities.

Sorensen, who has been a strong advocate for job creation and economic development in the region, urged DOT to award the funds in a letter in November, citing that the project “aligns with DOT’s goals of boosting economic strength through global competitiveness.” 

This funding was awarded as part of the DOT’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program.