The RDMS Capital Program has awarded $20 million to support the construction, repair, and modernization of public infrastructure and amenities. This investment is designed to boost job creation, improve quality of life, and stimulate economic activity, particularly in communities that have experienced historic disinvestment.
This second round of RDMS funding builds on the $106 million awarded in 2022 and focuses on reinvigorating Main Street districts and local city centers—key economic and cultural engines for small towns throughout the state.
Highlighted RDMS Grantee Projects:
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Bubin Properties, LLC (East Central Region): $771,263 to renovate the vacant building at 48 East Main Street in Downtown Champaign.
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City of Bloomington (North Central Region): $1,999,603 for streetscape improvements through the "Downtown for Everyone" program.
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City of East Moline (Northwest Region): $2,000,000 to transform 15th Avenue into a more pedestrian-friendly "Main Street."
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City of Hillsboro (Central Region): $749,275 for Phase II of downtown improvements, including sidewalks, curbing, water service, and lighting.
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City of McHenry (Northeast Region): $771,263 to reconstruct Riverside Drive in the downtown district.
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City of Mendota (Northwest Region): $1,988,625 for the "Rise From the Ashes Revitalization Project" to rebuild a city-owned downtown building after a devastating fire.
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City of Morris (Northeast Region): $771,263 for design and streetscape enhancements recommended in the Morris Downtown Master Plan.
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City of Rockford (Northern Stateline Region): $2,000,000 for Madison Street Phase II streetscape improvements.
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City of West Chicago (Northeast Region): $2,000,000 for Main Street and Turner Court improvements.
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JAC Managing Member LLC (Southwest Region): $2,000,000 to restore the Jacoby Building in Alton into apartments, a restaurant, and an art center.
"As Governor, one of my top priorities is to reverse decades of neglect and broken promises and bring jobs, opportunity, and hope back to communities across Illinois, while breathing new life into our downtown corridors and beyond. This program will directly support 25 communities across the state by funding critical community development projects, housing and infrastructure all while revitalizing commercial corridors."
Governor of Illinois | JB Pritzker
Advancing Recovery Through the RISE Program
Office of Governor JB Pritzker reports that the RISE Implementation Program awarded an additional $10 million to projects supporting local and regional economic recovery plans. Focus areas include workforce housing, downtown revitalization, infrastructure upgrades, and cultural development.
Highlighted RISE Grantee Projects:
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City of Carbondale (Southern Region): $2,000,000 to construct a market-activity pavilion at the Washington Street Entertainment and Events Plaza.
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City of Jacksonville (Central Region): $2,000,000 to acquire land for workforce housing development.
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City of Monmouth (West Central Region): $1,504,646 for Main Street reconstruction and streetscaping improvements.
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City of Pana (Central Region): $1,245,000 to develop an outdoor event space with ADA-compliant amenities and food truck service hook-ups.
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City of Red Bud (Southwest Region): $932,041 for infrastructure development at the Red Bud Business Park.
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City of Woodstock (Northeast Region): $1,047,750 to renovate the Opera House's Stage Left Café and create interactive kiosks on the Square.
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Village of Flanagan (North Central Region): $895,361 for dredging of the lagoon at the village wastewater treatment facility.
Construction and Trades Opportunities Across Illinois
These projects will create significant opportunities for construction professionals, including general contractors, concrete crews, masons, asphalt pavers, electricians, HVAC installers, and landscapers. The scope of work spans:
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Pavement resurfacing and sidewalk reconstruction
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ADA-compliant infrastructure upgrades
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Modernization of lighting and streetscape aesthetics
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Rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of historic structures
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Water, sewer, and utility enhancements
By revitalizing downtown areas and public amenities, these initiatives will support the trades, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.
Conclusion: Building Stronger Communities Through Investment
The $30 million in grants through the RDMS and RISE programs will breathe new life into downtowns and main streets across Illinois. By upgrading public infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and supporting local businesses, these investments are laying the foundation for vibrant, sustainable communities—and providing valuable work for the state's skilled construction workforce.
