In a significant move to bolster economic growth in Galesburg, Congressman Eric Sorensen, alongside Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, announced a substantial $25 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s RAISE Program. This funding will support the development of a new rail track and switching infrastructure at Galesburg Business Park, paving the way for a major containerized agricultural terminal. The project, supported by local and federal officials, aims to boost regional agricultural exports and stimulate economic growth in the area.
“This is more than an infrastructure win for Galesburg—it’s about creating good jobs, opening markets for farmers, and boosting opportunities for local businesses and families,” said Sorensen. “By bringing tax dollars home to upgrade transportation and give businesses the tools to grow, we’re building a stronger, brighter future for Galesburg.”
“The City of Galesburg is thankful for the support of Congressman Sorensen, which made this substantial grant possible,” said Eric Hanson, Galesburg City Manager. “Thanks to the support of the US Department of Transportation and our legislators, our rural community can finally realize the long-term goal of developing our business park with the infrastructure necessary to spur development and opportunity for our community.”
“The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development wishes to thank Congressman Sorensen for his leadership and support for this important transportation funding. The Congressman and his team worked closely with us throughout this multi-year process and helped make this win possible. We also want to thank Senators Durbin and Duckworth and Congressman LaHood for their support for this project. This is a great team win for West-Central Illinois,” said Ken Springer, President of The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development.
The DeLong Co., Inc., a family-owned business headquartered in Clinton, Wisconsin, has announced plans to develop a new intermodal agricultural export facility. Spanning about 100 acres, this facility will be set up within a larger 329-acre city-owned site. Known for its robust presence in the agricultural sector with 37 locations nationwide, DeLong’s expansion aims to enhance its export capabilities significantly. This development not only promises to boost local agriculture but also positions the company to better serve global markets, reflecting its commitment to growth and innovation in its service divisions.
“The DeLong Co. is excited to work hand-in-hand with the family farms and the Galesburg community on this important project. We are committed to being good neighbors, fostering strong relationships, and contributing to the growth and success of the region. This new facility represents an opportunity to build lasting partnerships and support the area’s agricultural producers in reaching global markets,” said Chris DeLong, President, The DeLong Co., Inc.
“KCAP is proud to bring forward the first significant project for the City’s Galesburg Business Park property. Knox County’s rail assets are a key advantage for our area and building additional investment using these assets has been a longtime goal of our organization. I want to publicly thank our legislators, the City team, and the many other folks who helped move this project forward,” said Ken Springer, Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development.