CHICAGO—Kankakee County will receive $82,000 to improve its mass transit system, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) announced Monday.

Sims is a member of the Appropriations I and II committees, and he is also one of the lead budget negotiators who sought funds to advance mass transit in rural communities.

“When many think of mass transit, they often think of urban areas, but it is actually a crucial resource for those living in rural areas,” Sims said. “Public transportation can be the difference in whether someone can make it to an important doctor’s appointment or provide nutritious meals for their families. I look forward to seeing how this investment helps improve the lives of people throughout Kankakee County.”

The Rebuild Illinois capital program will award $112 million to 31 downstate transportation systems. These grants are meant to help expand and improve services, provide more transit options and help improve the overall quality of life for residents.

Kankakee County’s grant will fund the replacement of a 14-passenger paratransit vehicle, which will be used as part of rural public transportation in Kankakee County.

It will also pay for the replacement of mobile radios in the county’s fleet. This will help ensure the safest and most efficient use of services in rural communities.

You can see the full list of local providers and awards here: https://idot.click/rbi-capital-plan-transit-grants