Tourism funding coming to Springfield thanks to Turner

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured nearly $320,000 in grant funding to boost tourism in Springfield.

“Investing in tourism boosts the local economy and creates more jobs while uplifting the community,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “With this funding, we have a great opportunity to showcase Route 66 and its ties to Springfield and Central Illinois.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $4 million was awarded to five grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program to help promote, develop, preserve and educate visitors about the Illinois Route 66 corridor in preparation for its 100th anniversary in 2026.

The Springfield Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau received $300,000 for four projects that will further highlight Route 66 sites, making them more appealing and desirable to visit. The funding will support and promote tourism for the Route 66 100th anniversary by offering visitors a legendary experience along with a deeper look at the history and culture of the region.

In addition, the bureau received nearly $20,000 to contract with the Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space to secure space for a free exhibition that will showcase Bob Waldmire’s distinctive artistic style, including his detailed maps and vibrant artwork that captures the spirit of the historic Mother Road from Illinois to California.

The full list of this round’s grant recipients can be found here.

Turner secures over $310,000 for five Central Illinois libraries

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner announced five Central Illinois libraries are set to receive a combined total of nearly $311,000 for library services and programming.

“Libraries are so much more than just books – they are vibrant community hubs and cutting-edge technology centers," said Turner (D-Springfield). "Grants tailored for libraries are an incredible way to empower the community they serve."

Through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants program, 639 public libraries statewide will receive nearly $18 million in grants. Libraries may use the funds to support resources and services for their communities, including books, e-books, online resources and internet access, personnel, public programming and capital expenditures.

Five libraries in the district Turner represents received over $310,000 in funding, including:

• Chatham Area Public Library District, $25,602
• Decatur Public Library, $104,020
• Rochester Public Library District, $11,122
• Lincoln Library, $168,731
• Stonington Township Library, $1,465

More information on available library grants can be found here.

Turner launches annual Summer Book Club

SPRINGFIELD – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Doris Turner is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation.

“During summer break, it’s important to keep kids’ minds sharp,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Reading over the summer helps students engage in educational material and increase their knowledge before the next school year.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Turner’s Springfield, Decatur or Capitol office by Aug. 15. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Turner.

Summer Book Club forms can be filled out here. People with questions can reach out to Turner’s office at 217-782-0228 or SenatorDorisTurner.com.

Turner champions measure expanding ag education

SPRINGFIELD – As a strong advocate for ag education, State Senator Doris Turner spearheaded a measure through the Senate to expand hands-on learning for FFA and 4-H students to count toward school hours.

“Students have been jeopardized for missing school because of FFA and 4-H events, fairs and competitions,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “The hands-on experience there goes a long way in helping a student decide what to focus on in college and their future career.”

Building on Turner’s 2023 law, House Bill 2802 would allow participation in supervised career development experiences and other approved work-based learning activities to count toward the daily calculation of school clock hours.

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