This week Governor Pat Quinn was in the Peoria Metro to announce $30 million in funding for the Veterans Drive project in Pekin.  It’s part of the Illinois Jobs Now! plan and is expected to create 250 construction jobs. 

The Board of Directors of the Economic Development Council for Central Illinois would like to extend congratulations to the city of Pekin for this funding and a thank you to legislators for recognizing the projects importance. 

In March 2009 the board sent a letter to legislators urging them to include this project in the transportation plan because it will benefit the entire region and will enable greater access to Pekin’s industrial park.  In that letter, former Board President Bruce Alkire said “Being able to attract businesses to our area will have a direct impact on our economy through the job creation that will ensue.”

The board continues to support this project today and firmly believes the projects’ completion will enable a more competitive structure for businesses to consider a move to this region.

[Map of Veterans Drive project]