Turner: Decatur horse racing track brings energy, boosts economy

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is working to transform Macon County’s economy by greenlighting a new horse racing track – bringing the thunder of hooves, the roar of crowds and hundreds of good-paying jobs back to Decatur.

“This is a win-win that would revive Central Illinois while putting money back in the pockets of all Illinois residents,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We're not just bringing jobs and economic opportunity back to Macon County – we're enhancing the horse racing industry and economic perks it will bring to the entire region.”

House Bill 2724 would allow for the construction of a new harness track in Macon County.

The new harness racing track in Decatur would be privately financed, requiring no state dollars. The proposal includes a mile-long harness racing track with grandstands, a sports complex and recreation fields, a gaming facility, retail, restaurants and lodging, more than 300 stalls and RV parking. The development projects 300 full-time jobs, 100% union labor and participation, and $27 million in annual, new revenue.

Turner stresses the unique opportunity for economic benefit in both counties in the 48th District with a commitment for infrastructure upgrades at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, while expanding year-round training opportunities, strengthening the entire regional horseracing ecosystem and safeguarding an important asset in our region and state.

“The horse-racing industry in Illinois is ready to ride again thanks to the Decatur Racino project,” said Decatur Mayor Julie Moore-Wolfe. “The racino is a game-changer for Decatur and Macon County as we revitalize horse racing in our state. My sincere appreciation to Senator Doris Turner for taking us to the finish line.”

House Bill 2724 passed the Senate on Thursday.

Turner calls for bipartisan action to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"We have to leave politics behind us and see that this puts people’s lives at risk," said Turner (D-Springfield). “Food assistance programs like SNAP are a lifeline for people who need it most – the working men and women across the state who are trying their best to make it by. It’s past time for us to come together to protect a basic human right.”

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 50,350 people in the district Turner represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Turner stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

"The federal government needs to act now," said Turner. "This isn’t just about food. It’s about the children, adults and seniors who are being targeted. We have a duty to protect Illinois residents, especially the most vulnerable populations."

Turner is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance.

Turner to host Springfield senior fair

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner welcomes Springfield residents to attend a local senior resource fair on Monday, Nov. 10.

“This annual event is a great opportunity for those in the area who would like to seek resources and support for themselves or someone they know,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Events like these create a sense of community and allow us to extend a helping hand to those who need it.”

The free event will take place will take place 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Salvation Army of Springfield, located at 1600 E. Clear Lake Ave.

Seniors will be able to address any concerns or questions directly with various service and health care providers, along with state and local groups.

People with questions about the event can reach out to Turner’s office at 217-782-0228 or SenatorDorisTurner.com.

Nearly $70 million coming to Central Illinois infrastructure with strong support from Turner

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured over $68 million to build and repair infrastructure in Central Illinois.

“Continuing to invest in our roads increases safety, brings more jobs and boosts the local economy throughout our communities,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We made the commitment to improve our state’s aging infrastructure and we are seeing the benefits these investments are making that will have a lasting effect for residents here in Central Illinois.”

The largest multi-year program to build and repair infrastructure in state history will invest $50.6 billion over six years, continuing an unprecedented investment in safety, mobility and quality of life made possible by the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program. The Illinois Department of Transportation’s new multi-year program is both comprehensive and multimodal, with investments in roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations touching every Illinois county.

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Turner represents will see infrastructure projects totaling more than $68 million next year.

“With this significant funding coming right to the roads we drive daily, we are investing in the future of our communities,” said Turner.

A full list of projects in the 48^th District can be found here.