Senate Democrats applaud $17 billion in federal funding awarded through infrastructure plan

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois will see more than $17 billion of the $1 trillion infrastructure bill passed by Congress earlier this year, a move Senate Democrats applaud.

The federal government passed a long-term investment plan to boost the nation’s infrastructure. This bipartisan legislation seeks to rebuild the country’s roads, bridges, ports, rails and airports. It also ensures that people have access to high-speed internet and takes action to mitigate the effects of climate change. The efforts of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will add up to 1.5 million jobs per year, providing an opportunity to boost the economy as well.

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Van Pelt concerned by Aldi's closure in West Garfield Park, weary of west side becoming food desert

CHICAGO – Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is outraged after the Aldi in West Garfield Park abruptly closed in October, and is worried about residents' wellbeing in lieu of the West Side becoming a food desert.

“This closure is devastating to the community because a lot of people depended on this Aldi for convenient and affordable food,” Van Pelt said. “In particular, many older residents got their groceries from here. This is not just an affordability issue, but a mobility issue as well.”

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Joyce urges high school seniors to apply for Conservation Achievement Scholarship

KANKAKEE – The annual Conservation Achievement Scholarship is now accepting applications, and Senate Agriculture Chair Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) invites eligible Illinois high school seniors to apply.

The Conservation Achievement Scholarship will award up to four scholarships of $2,000 each to outstanding high school seniors in Illinois who demonstrate effective, voluntary, long-term dedication to the preservation, protection or enhancement of the state’s natural resources.

“This scholarship program awards our best and brightest students for their hard work and dedication to conservation stewardship,” Joyce said. “I encourage all eligible high school seniors to take advantage of this opportunity and apply.”

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