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Illinois Central College secures over $900,000 EDA Grant with support from Congressman Darin LaHood

East Peoria, IL (04/12/2022) — Illinois Central College, with support from Congressman Darin LaHood, announces the awarding of a $911,900 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). ICC will use the investment to enhance student learning through the support of campus projects and upgrades on the East Peoria and Pekin campuses. The investment will be matched with $521,177 in local funds and is expected to create 100+ jobs and generate $2 million in private investment.

"We are so pleased to have secured this critical funding that will allow some needed additions and upgrades for students," said ICC President Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey. "We appreciate Congressman LaHood's constant support of the College. He understands the vital role we play in the community as we strive to help individuals earn a degree or credential leading to a family-sustaining wage."

"Illinois Central College continues to lead the way in providing excellent workforce development programs that prepare the next generation of central Illinois' labor force," said Rep. LaHood. "This funding will provide our community with new workforce development facilities, and I applaud President Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey for her continued commitment to Peoria and central Illinois."

Projects to be funded on the College's East Peoria campus include an expansion of the welding program through eight additional welding booths and increased capacity within the welding lab; and improvements to the Truck Driver Training program including a new semi-truck and new asphalt, upgraded lighting, and a shelter in the training area. Updates to the ICC Pekin Campus include a storage building for a fire truck and ambulance to provide EMT, Paramedic, and Fire Science programs, as well as welding program upgrades and energy-efficient exterior upgrades.

"The Economic Development Administration is committed to helping communities across the nation implement strategies to rebound from the pandemic and build a better America," said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. "This EDA investment will help Illinois Central College construct an emergency vehicle storage building and purchase new tractor-trailer and welding equipment in support of its workforce training programs, ensuring that the regional economy is resilient to future economic disruptions."

"ICC has led our Illinois Workforce Equity Initiative since its founding, and this infusion of federal dollars will further our efforts to create better access to great careers in underserved communities," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Over 5,000 residents have enrolled in the consortium's training programs around the state, and I'm working with the Illinois General Assembly to invest another $25 million in removing barriers to the healthcare field. I'm proud of the progress we're making by bringing state and federal resources together to open more doors for Central Illinois."

To learn more, visit eda.gov/news/press-releases/2022/04/12/east-peoria-il.htm.

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