[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Development division has awarded a total of $207,230 in Community Facility grant and loan funding to local governments in Jackson, Pulaski, and Stark counties through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

“Community facilities and services are an important part of everyday life for millions of rural Illinoisans,” said Durbin “This funding makes a significant investment in the continued operation and sustainability of local governments while helping put Illinoisans back to work.”

Today’s funding is part of $11.8 million awarded nationwide by the USDA today. Each year, Rural Development administers nearly $16 billion in program loans, loan guarantees, and grants. The USDA’s Community Facilities program helps finance essential community facilities and services for public use in rural areas. Facilities and services eligible for funding include childcare centers, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings, and transportation. Community Facility Grants are awarded based on a priority point system, with small, low-income communities receiving the highest priority.

The following local governments and organizations will receive funding:

• Village of Elkville: $80,000 in loan funding and $40,000 in grant funding to construct a new fire station.
• Village of Pulaski Public Safety: $62,730 in grant funding for the renovation of an existing fire station.
• County of Stark: $24,500 in grant funding to construct a salt shed.