Illinois Congressman Sorensen Announces $22.7 Million for Infrastructure Upgrades in Rock Island
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is joining local leaders today to announce $22.7 million in federal funding for significant infrastructure improvements along 11th Street in the City of Rock Island. Following the city’s grant submission, Sorensen and Senators Durbin and Duckworth championed the project.
“This vital infrastructure investment will create good-paying jobs here in Rock Island and make our neighborhoods even better places to live and work,” said Sorensen. “Improvements to 11th Street will make our communities safer and help local businesses thrive by improving access and traffic flow. I’m thankful to our local leaders for their years of tireless advocacy and am proud to help them bring these dollars home.”
“After many years, four grant submissions and with the collaboration of city staff and state and federal officials, we are proud and excited to be awarded a $22.7 million RAISE grant,” said Rock Island Mayor Mike Thoms. “11th Street is the ‘Main Street’ of Rock Island’s west side, connecting neighborhoods, businesses and schools. Its reconstruction will create a family-friendly corridor for the community and economic development opportunities.”
“Investments in rebuilding and modernizing Illinois’ infrastructure are critical to improving residents’ quality of life,” said Durbin. “These federal grants will allow communities across our state to make improvements that meet the demands of the 21st century. Senator Duckworth and I will continue working to ensure our state has the federal resources to improve and expand Illinois’ infrastructure.”
“Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about more than just improving our roads, bridges and rail lines, it’s about making getting to work, school and throughout our communities faster, safer and more efficient,” said Duckworth. “I’m proud to see this federal funding coming to Rock Island to help make critical upgrades to our roads and keep pedestrians safe. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin and Congressman Sorensen to help ensure our local communities have the support they need to improve and strengthen our infrastructure for generations to come.”
The funding, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), will support the redesign and construction of complete street improvements. The project will reduce lanes, add a multi-use path, and ensure ADA-compliant sidewalks and crossings. Additionally, it will address stormwater management, utility upgrades, new lighting, and traffic signals.
Sorensen advocated for this project, submitting a letter to the DOT in February highlighting that the project would “have a significant impact on the community by improving public safety, spurring economic development, and improving area residents’ ability to access schools, employment, and other critical services.”
This investment was awarded as part of DOT’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program.