Congressman Eric Sorensen has announced more than $33 million in federal Community Project Funding for Illinois’ 17th Congressional District, with over $25 million earmarked for the Quad Cities. These funds are set to address critical infrastructure needs, focusing on water, sewer, and river improvements. The largest portion—$18 million—will advance the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program along the Upper Mississippi River, boosting navigation, restoring habitats, and fostering job growth. Local projects include new drinking water mains in Savanna, sewer upgrades in Silvis, and wastewater improvements in Rock Island. The funding still awaits final approval in the U.S. Senate.
“These are the kinds of investments that make a real difference in people’s daily lives. From clean drinking water and modern sewer systems to protecting the Mississippi River and supporting good-paying local jobs, this funding delivers for the Quad Cities and makes sure our communities are prepared for the future,” said Congressman Sorensen. “At a time when many communities are facing aging infrastructure and rising costs, this funding helps relieve pressure on taxpayers while delivering long-overdue improvements. I urge the Senate to act quickly to take up this legislation and pass it into law so these critical projects can move forward.”
“The $18 million secured by Rep. Sorensen, in partnership with other Congressional members in Illinois and neighboring states, for the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program will invest in improvements to the ecological integrity and resilience Upper Mississippi River System. This work will be implemented in conjunction with the ongoing construction of a second, 1,200-foot lock chamber at L&D 25. We applaud Rep. Sorensen for his steady and strong leadership on the Upper Mississippi River System.” said Kirsten Wallace, Upper Mississippi River Basin Association Executive Director.
Projects for Quad Cities area:
Upper Mississippi River – $18,000,000
- Funding will be used to continue the development of the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP), a long-term initiative to strengthen river navigation, restore ecosystems, support regional commerce, and create skilled jobs.
City of Savanna – $2,000,000
- The funding will be used to facilitate the construction of a new drinking water main and to prevent system failure that could result in the loss of water access to half the community.
Village of Coal Valley – $1,092,000
- Funding will be used to construct a water main extension and a new well tower to improve systemwide reliability and connectivity throughout Coal Valley.
City of Rock Island – $1,092,000
- The funding will be used to provide critical maintenance and upgrades at the Mill Street Wastewater Treatment Plant to address failing equipment and improve its water treatment capacity.
City of Maquon – $720,000
- This funding will be used to help facilitate wastewater system improvements that will help ensure the city complies with environmental standards and protects nearby waterways.
City of Silvis – $1,092,000
- Funding will be used to replace century-old sewer lines on 3rd and 7th Streets in Silvis that will help reduce water leaks, prevent contamination, and protect local public health.
Village of Sherrard – $1,170,000
- Funding will be used to invest in drinking water infrastructure improvements, including the replacement of aging local water tower and the preparation for a new elevated water tower.