Turner secures over $2.2 million for Springfield, Decatur transit providers

• Grant Funding

SPRINGFIELD – Five transit providers in Springfield and Decatur were awarded more than $2.2 million to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options, thanks to strong support from State Senator Doris Turner. 

“When we invest in our transportation services, we are investing in our communities and the people who live there,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Central Illinois will be better equipped to connect our urban and rural communities by providing transportation for anyone who needs it.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Three Springfield transit providers, including Senior Services of Central Illinois, Inc., Sangamon County and Springfield Mass Transit District, are set to receive 15 vehicles, totaling more than $1.4 million. Macon Resources and the City of Decatur were awarded $816,000 for 10 vehicles. The program helps smaller transit agencies navigate the red tape of the public bidding process while ensuring their vehicles meet federal requirements and specifications.

A full list of awardees can be found here.

Turner urges responsibility in this year’s budget

• Budget

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) released the following statement in response to the governor’s budget address Wednesday:

“Parents throughout Springfield and Decatur want to see us do the right thing when it comes to the state budget. I believe education is the foundation on which we build community. We must continue our commitment to funding K-12 education, setting students on a path to be lifelong learners. Let’s not forget, adequately funding our education system has the added benefit of giving people a break on their property taxes.

“Agriculture drives our state’s economy, especially here in Central Illinois. I hope to see continued investments in the ag industry, prioritizing our farmers and producers.

“The proposed budget sets a framework for us to begin negotiations. The future of our state and local economy depends on us making responsible choices for the hardworking families across the state.”

Turner secures over $800,000 for two local park projects

• Grant Funding

SPRINGFIELD – The Village of Southern View and Macon County Conservation District were awarded over $880,000 to help acquire land and develop recreational opportunities, thanks to strong support from State Senator Doris Turner.

“Investments into our local parks build up our community and neighborhoods, especially in disadvantaged areas,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “As a lifelong resident of Springfield, we are fortunate enough to have a variety of parks here and across the 48th District. I have seen the benefits residents get from our parks, and I look forward to seeing the projects through for all to enjoy.”

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants, administered through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, help communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. Since it was established, OSLAD has awarded nearly $585 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

Nearly $55 million in grants were awarded to 111 local parks across Illinois. The Village of Southern View will receive $280,700 and the Macon County Conservation District is set to receive $600,000 to acquire and develop land for public parks and open space.

“With this funding, we will be able to make much-needed updates to the playground equipment that has been falling apart for years,” said Village of Southern View President Mike Patsche. “Playgrounds are vital to building a sense of community, especially in smaller ones like ours. Thanks to Senator Turner’s efforts, the children in our area will be able to enjoy the park and just be kids.”

Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for more information on the OSLAD grants.

Turner works to hold funeral homes accountable in response to Carlinville tragedy

SPRINGFIELD – Standing alongside families who have been impacted by Carlinville funeral home’s insufficient handling of human remains, State Senator Doris Turner outlined her plan to reestablish integrity and trust in the death care industry.

“The status quo isn’t working,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “These are people who deserve dignity and respect. This legislation will ensure that no family will have to worry that the death of their loved ones aren’t handled with dignity and respect.”

Senate Bill 2643 would require the death care industry in the state as well as state regulators to implement a mandatory unique identification tagging system for all human remains. It also would establish a chain of custody system that tracks the human remains of a deceased individual whose death occurred in the state from death to final disposition, if the final disposition is in Illinois.

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