$12.5M secured for range of projects in 10th District communities
Nearly $12.5 million in federal funding has been secured for a range of projects including violence intervention, replacing lead water service lines, infrastructure improvements and more throughout the 10th Congressional District.
U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider this week announced the funding for 15 community projects in his district through several bipartisan appropriations packages that were negotiated, approved and have been signed into law.
The district extends diagonally south and east from the Wisconsin state line near Hebron in McHenry County to include much of Lake County and a portion of north suburban Cook County.
Ten of the 15 projects were awarded $1 million or more. All awards represent “crucial investments” in areas including public safety, infrastructure, wetland restoration and more, Schneider said.
Among them is $1 million for Lake County Community Violence Intervention Project. The initiative is under the direction of the Lake County State’s Attorneys Office, which intervenes in circumstances in which gun violence is likely.
The grant will expand services for victims and survivors to improve safety, according to Schneider.
Stabilizing eroding shorelines at Big and Little Bear Lakes in Vernon Hills is among the environmental projects. The work is meant to improve stormwater filtration and enhance wildlife habitats.
Also on the list is $1 million to restore 250 acres of native habitat at Gander Mountain Forest Preserve along the Wisconsin border between the Fox River and Wilmot Road.
Topping out at 957 feet above sea level, Gander Mountain is Lake County’s highest natural elevation. The property is on the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory and recognized for its hilly terrain shaped by retreating glaciers.
Restoration will include removing invasive species, thinning canopy trees and planting native grasses, wildflowers and shrubs.
Modernizing and improving the sanitary sewer system in Antioch Township; upgrading a waste water treatment plant in Fox Lake; and building a new one in Spring Grove each will receive $1.09 million.
Other projects include $1 million to rehabilitate Lakeside Tower, a 150-unit affordable multifamily building, and $250,000 to build an inclusive recreation project for individuals with developmental disabilities, both in Waukegan.
In Antioch, $580,694 is targeted for sidewalk expansion, safe and accessible routes and improved building entrances for residents and visitors with mobility challenges to reach restaurants, shops and other areas in the downtown area.
Rounding out the list is $300,000 to restore wetland and prairie habitat along Silver Creek in Cary and $240,000 to modernize police communications in Round Lake Beach.