U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) announced the approval of $1,890,000 in federal funding for community projects in east-central Illinois, including one in Danville.
The northern portion of Vermilion County, including Danville, is in Kelly’s district.
Rep. Kelly, in a news release, stated that she helped secure the funding allocation as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 government appropriations package.
Rep. Kelly listed investments for the following projects:
• $850,000 is allocated for the City of Danville for its revitalization of the city’s Madison Neighborhood. This project will provide better housing and infrastructure, remove blight, and provide more accessible public services to increase the quality of life and economic productivity of the area.
• $500,000 is allocated for the Boys and Girls Club of Livingston County to support development of a planned 17,700-square-foot intergenerational community center. This center will promote interaction and cooperation between individuals of different ages and focus on the needs of all residents, especially children and older adults.
• $540,000 is allocated for the Rantoul Youth Center to expand its capacity to provide meals to its members. This funding will help the center make critical upgrades to its kitchen prep and serving area, relocate the freezers and refrigeration, finish the main dining room, and update existing offices and the gymnasium.
“I am proud to secure these federal resources for housing and youth development to make critical investments in the future of our communities in east-central Illinois,” Kelly said in a statement.”I look forward to continuing to work with community leaders to ensure that everyone in the Second District has the opportunity to thrive.”
Rantoul Mayor Charles Smith stated that the Rantoul Youth Center is already a tremendous asset to the community and the re-investment into that facility is all about ensuring that there continues to be a special place for the youth of the community.
A statement from the City of Danville released by Kelly’s office said the $850,000 will make a significant impact for the Madison neighborhood of Danville.
“Through this targeted funding, we will be tackling housing issues, removing blight, upgrading infrastructure, and improving public services. This investment will be aimed towards uplifting the Madison neighborhood residents’ quality of life, creating economic opportunities, and fostering community resilience,” according to the statement. “By revitalizing this historic area, we will be making improvements to the neighborhood, paving the way for a more equitable future, and creating a sustainable neighborhood by retaining existing residents while inviting and welcoming new ones.”
Officials for the Boys & Girls Club of Livingston County said they were pleased to hear the news about funding for their project to establishment an Intergenerational Center in Fairbury.
“Upon completion, the Intergenerational Center will signify a profound commitment to the well-being and prosperity of its residents, regardless of age or background. This center will not only serve as a hub for social interactions and community engagement but also bridge the generational gap, fostering a sense of unity and understanding,” they said. “This center will embody the values of compassion, respect and unity, reminding us that we are all connected and that our collective well-being is essential for a thriving society.”