A delegation of more than two dozen leaders from the Bloomington-Normal area is heading to Washington, D.C. this week with the goal of securing up to $22.75 million for four major infrastructure projects.
The trip, organized by the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council (EDC), aims to present a unified community effort to federal lawmakers and agencies, reinforcing the importance of these projects in boosting local infrastructure and economic growth.
The Significance of the One Voice Trip
The One Voice initiative has been an integral part of the EDC’s strategy for over a decade, successfully attracting nearly $200 million in federal funding. However, with changes in administration and staff turnover in Washington, the outcome of this year’s trip remains uncertain.
Key Infrastructure Projects in Need of Funding
The delegation will advocate for four major projects aimed at enhancing transportation, education, and public accessibility in the Bloomington-Normal area:
1. Connect Transit Transfer Center - $2 Million Request
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Objective: The funding would cover approximately 30% of the costs to construct a two-level parking facility above the new Connect Transit Transfer Center in downtown Bloomington.
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Total Cost: Estimated at $30 million.
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Impact: The parking facility is expected to support urban revitalization efforts, sustainable building initiatives, and enhanced green spaces, aligning with city development goals.
2. Central Illinois Regional Airport (CIRA) Passenger Boarding Bridge - $2.25 Million Request
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Objective: To replace an outdated and nonfunctional passenger boarding bridge and enhance a second bridge at CIRA.
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Total Cost: Estimated at $2.5 million, with the remainder covered by the Illinois Division of Aeronautics.
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Impact: The new bridge will be ADA-compliant and accommodate larger aircraft, increasing airport capacity and accessibility.
"This is not a bridge over the road. This is going to be a larger bridge for passengers that will be ADA [Americans with Disabilities Act] compliant and also get us some bigger planes."
Director of Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council | Patrick Hoban
3. Hudson Township Road Upgrade - $3.5 Million Request
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Objective: To improve three miles of N 1475 East Road, a critical alternative route for Interstate 39 during closures.
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Total Cost: Estimated at $13 million, with federal funding covering 27%.
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Impact: Enhancements include widening the road, reinforcing the pavement for heavy loads, and upgrading signage, lighting, and drainage to accommodate diverted traffic, school buses, and agricultural vehicles.
4. Illinois State University (ISU) STEM Building - $15 Million Request
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Objective: To complement the $30 million already secured for the construction of a new 37,000-square-foot STEM education facility.
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Total Cost: Estimated at $60 million, with ISU borrowing an additional $15 million.
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Impact: The facility will include teaching labs, a rooftop greenhouse, and collaborative learning spaces, boosting science and technology education for future generations.
Construction and Workforce Implications
WGLT News reports that If funding is secured, these projects will significantly impact the local construction industry, creating jobs for skilled laborers, engineers, project managers, and tradespeople. The projects involve:
- Structural development
- Electrical and mechanical installations
- Roadwork
- Architectural design
Additionally, ISU’s STEM facility will require high-tech building solutions such as advanced laboratory installations, sustainable infrastructure, and modern HVAC systems. The airport expansion will involve specialized aviation-related construction, which includes reinforced structural work and compliance with federal safety regulations.
Looking Ahead
As Bloomington-Normal leaders engage with federal lawmakers, they emphasize the long-term benefits these infrastructure improvements will provide, from enhanced public transportation to economic development and safer roads. If approved, the funds will accelerate project timelines, ensuring that these essential upgrades are completed within the next few years.
With a strong delegation and a compelling case for funding, the Bloomington-Normal community remains optimistic about securing support for these transformative projects. The outcome of this trip could pave the way for a brighter, more connected, and economically robust future for the region.
