Bloomington and Normal city officials are thanking Democratic U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen for his help in securing nearly $5 million in federal spending for the community.
The Interior Department appropriations bill will pay for more work on storm and sanitary sewer separation in Bloomington, storm water drainage work in Normal, and redesigning and constructing a part of Vernon Avenue near Colene Hoose Elementary School.
“The City of Bloomington is grateful to Congressman Sorensen for his efforts in securing $2 million in funds for the Locust Colton sewer separation project,” said Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe. “This vital funding will not only address critical infrastructure needs, but also enhance the quality of life for our residents.
"From the very beginning, congressman Sorensen took the time to visit with us and learn about what was important to us. We appreciate that he turned his interest into advocacy that provided results and look forward to the positive impact this investment will have on our city.”
This project will minimize overflows, sewer backups and flooding — both in homes and public bodies of water during heavy rain events.
In Normal, $850,000 will go to re-envisioning Vernon Avenue from Grandview to Towanda.
“This effort will provide all users traversing the Vernon Avenue corridor with safe, accessible accommodation and access to facilities adjacent to the street,” said a news release from Sorensen.
Another $1.55 million will address flooding issues in the town’s central business district resulting from the increasing severity and frequency of major storm events.
Sorensen will be in town Wednesday for public events about the grants.
