CENTREVILLE — To increase awareness of economic development in underserved communities, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) announced Madison will receive a grant through the Fast-Track Public Infrastructure Capital program. 

“Communities that are disadvantaged needed financial assistance long before the pandemic, which is why this investment is so vital for economic inclusion,” Belt said. “I want to thank Governor Pritzker for continuing to prioritize communities with the greatest needs.”

The Fast Track program was created by the state to provide emergency assistance for businesses and communities facing economic hardship during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Currently, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has launched more than $300 million in emergency relief programs, with most of the funding available for businesses. 

The city of Madison was awarded $635,050 for maintenance building construction. The funding for the Fast Track program is through the Illinois statewide construction plan, known as Rebuild Illinois. Eligible applicants were required to prove projects were located in an undeserved area, had Business Enterprise Program inclusion plans, and could start within 90 days after being awarded. 

To find out other cities that have been awarded the Fast-Track grant, click here.