Illinois state budget allocates $10 million for Rockford projects

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — More than $10 million in state funding from the Fiscal Year 2026 budget is coming to Rockford.

Rep. Maurice West (D-67th District) announced the funding at an event at Fair Grounds Park on Tuesday.

The funding includes:

• $3 million for the Family Peace Center
• $2 million for the Northern Illinois Land Bank
• $1.7 million to the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
• $3.7 million for funding the Home Modification Program including RAMP locally
• $500,000 to the Rockford Park District for upgrades to Fair Grounds Park
• $320,000 for the YWCA Northwestern Illinois
• $300,000 for infrastructure improvements to the City of Loves Park
• $300,000 for the Cherry Valley Fire Protection District to support regional firefighter training
• $40,000 for upgrades for Shelter Care Ministries
• $40,000 for upgrades for Northwest Community Center.
• $60,000 for Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity
• Nearly $1 million of continuing appropriations for GoRockford for talent acquisition and restaurant relief grants

“This year’s budget provides critical investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and more while guarding against overreach that could threaten our hard-earned financial stability,” West said. “Locally, I was able to secure millions of dollars for major investments that will support first responders, reduce blight, combat crime, assist non-profits, and so much more.  These investments for the Rockford region are critical for the support of our neighbors and to uplift diverse communities.”

“We greatly appreciate the assistance of Representative West and the State of Illinois,” said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara in a statement.  “From upgrading parks to talent acquisition to supporting the expansion of the Family Peace Center, Rep. West is delivering on bringing dollars back to Rockford to care for those who live here, improve the quality of life and support survivors!”