SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner announced Monday that two areas of Springfield are being recognized as State-Designated Cultural Districts.

"During my time on Springfield City Council, I began working on ways to integrate our Black history while incorporating economic development opportunities throughout our communities,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “These official designations are essential to preserving our history, highlighting our important legacy and significant contributions from the Great Migration and onward.”

State-Designated Cultural Districts are communities, towns or specific geographic areas that have a distinct shared historical and cultural identity that binds the community together. The purpose of the program is to encourage economic development, support the preservation and development of history and culturally significant structures, traditions and languages, foster local cultural development and education, provide a focal point for celebrating communities’ unique cultural identities, and promote equitable growth and opportunity without generating displacement.

“In a landmark day for Springfield, the awarding of two cultural district designations to East Springfield - the Southtown Cultural District and the Central East Cultural District - reinforces a principle we’ve long held dear: effective leadership is crucial,” said Springfield Project President Dominic Watson. “The Springfield Project is immensely proud to collaborate with Senator Turner in fostering a community where inclusivity and mutual benefit are the cornerstones. This achievement not only honors our city’s rich history but also paves the way for a more welcoming and prosperous future for all our residents.”

The new districts in Springfield, Central East Cultural District and Southtown Cultural District, are led by efforts from the Springfield Urban League Inc. and the Springfield Project. Now, they will be eligible to apply for $3 million in funding that will be tailored to fit the needs of individual Cultural Districts and support the goals of the program to foster economic development and help communities preserve their unique cultural identities.

“We stand at a pivotal juncture in our history, where the recognition of Springfield's Central East Cultural District not only honors our past but also paves the way for a future brimming with opportunity and inclusivity," said President & CEO of the Springfield Urban League Marcus E. Johnson. "I extend my deepest gratitude to Senator Doris Turner, Governor Pritzker, and Lieutenant Governor Stratton for their visionary leadership. This designation magnifies the legacy and contributions of our community, aligning perfectly with the Springfield Urban League's mission to empower and uplift."

Learn more about the Springfield Project and Springfield Urban League, Inc.

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.

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.”

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.