KANKAKEE – Kankakee residents will see an investment of over $1.2 million to improve the South Schuyler bike and pedestrian path, plus millions more for projects in surrounding communities, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) announced Tuesday.

“During the pandemic, there has been a boost in outdoor activity which has increased the use of our bike trails,” Joyce said. “This investment shows the state’s commitment to protecting the safety and health of bicyclists and pedestrians while improving active transportation, recreation and community connection.”

Residents of Kankakee County will soon see $1.26 million in improvements to the South Schuyler bike and pedestrian roadway in Kankakee, expanding transportation options in the area and providing an opportunity for safe outdoor recreation.

"The Rebuild Illinois funds provide the City of Kankakee the opportunity to continue improving the downtown district while laying the foundation for our riverfront master plan," said Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis. "The project will improve the safety for pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles traveling South Schuyler Avenue across the river. This streetscape project is planned to begin in spring of 2022."

PARK FOREST— In an effort to maintain student progress outside the classroom, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is launching a Summer Reading Club for children and young people who live in the 40th State Senate District.
 
Joyce is launching a Summer Reading Club to counteract summer learning loss, which occurs when students “turn off their brains” during summer months.

“Summer reading is critical in keeping our children engaged and curious for the next academic year,” Joyce said. “I am encouraging young readers to set aside 10-15 minutes a day to read and make it a part of their summer routine.”

Studies indicate that 2 months of reading skills and 2 ½ months of math skills are lost over a single summer.

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books and return the form to Joyce’s office by Aug. 11. Participants will receive a gift card and certificate from Senator Joyce. 

CHICAGO HEIGHTS – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is cautioning residents to be on alert for multiple texting and emailing scams claiming to be from the secretary of state’s office seeking personal information to defraud Illinoisans.

“There has been an increase in text and email scams trying to take advantage of individuals during tough times,” Joyce said. “Please stay vigilant, and don’t let your guard down against the very real risk of fraud and identity theft.”

According to the secretary of state’s office, scammers are sending unsolicited text messages and emails claiming to be from the Illinois Secretary of State. In some instances, the scammers copy the Secretary of State website logos and masthead to appear official.

SPRINGFIELD – Following the Senate’s passage of a balanced state budget, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Esssex) praised investments in agriculture and farming families included in the plan:

“As our state continues to move forward from the pandemic, this budget addresses the issues our communities are facing every day and demonstrates the state’s investment in recovery now.

“I’m proud to support a balanced, responsible budget that keeps our farming families in mind, increasing funding to programs that help our agricultural industry continue to thrive. This plan puts our entire state—including our rural communities—on the path to real, lasting recovery.”