Elgin targets four projects for federal stimulus plan

Elgin leaders have spotlighted four major projects that could begin now in an attempt to land federal funding from President Obama's stimulus plan, which has topped $900 billion.

City officials believe the projects, which could begin in short order, could create as many as 245 jobs in the area if funding comes through.

Elgin leaders, in conjunction with other Democrats such as 14th District Congressman Bill Foster and Sen. Dick Durbin, have asked for funding for:

• the $11 million Riverside Drive replacement

• a $4.5 million Highland Avenue sewer project

• a $3 million reconstruction of Spartan Drive at Elgin Community College

• a $14 million rehabilitation of the Airlite Water Treatment Plant on the city's west side.

"What we'll get, I don't know," said Councilman John Walters. "You could make a strong case for every single one of these."

Mayor Ed Schock said last week Illinois only expects some $1.8 billion in funding for capital improvement projects. In comparison, the recent Dan Ryan Expressway reconstruction cost $1 billion alone.

Schock on Wednesday emphasized these projects were "shovel ready" and could be started quickly.