KANKAKEE – In an effort to restore downtown Kankakee and boost economic growth, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) introduced new legislation that would support investment in the City of Kankakee.

Joyce’s proposal – Senate Bill 3048 – would create a River Edge Redevelopment Zone in the City of Kankakee to receive the River Edge Tax Credit, designed to help older river communities redevelop properties.

“This legislation encourages investment in our community and offers a second chance to parts of our city that have become neglected over the years,” Joyce said. “As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, this tax credit will promote economic development and stimulate jobs that will help revitalize downtown Kankakee.”

PARK FOREST – Sixty-two additional small businesses in the 40th Senate District were awarded $1.9 million in pandemic-related aid thanks to support from State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex). 

“Illinois is fighting to keep small businesses operating,” Joyce said. “I’m pleased to see our local restaurants, salons, fitness centers and other organizations in our community get a financial boost.”

The B2B program grants are awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity using funds allocated to them by the American Rescue Plan through last year’s state budget. So far – thanks to strong support from Joyce – DCEO has provided $111 million in B2B grants to nearly 3,000 small businesses throughout the state with an emphasis on disproportionately impacted areas.

The latest B2B announcement awarded grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to help them cover the costs of safely staying open in these unpredictable times. Businesses ranged from coffee shops to art studios and more.

“Our small businesses are the backbone of our community and our community is seeing firsthand how the Back to Business grant program can help keep their doors open,” Joyce said. 

Grants will continue to be awarded on a rolling basis. Visit the DCEO website for more information on the B2B program and view a full list of grantees here.

CHICAGO HEIGHTS – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) and State Representative Anthony DeLuca (D-Chicago Heights) are pleased to announce that Chicago Heights motorists will have access to a new driver services facility for in-person transactions.

Starting Tuesday, Jan. 25, drivers in the Southland will have a safe and convenient way to renew their driver’s license, identification cards and license plate stickers at the new and improved Chicago Heights DMV located at 570 W. 209th St. in Chicago Heights.

“I'd like to thank the team at secretary of state's office, Secretary White, Rep. DeLuca and Prairie State College for making this transition possible,” Joyce said. “Even under difficult circumstances, there has never been a gap in services, but now drivers will have the opportunity to go inside a modernized facility in Chicago Heights and get the help they need.”

BRADLEY – Four local libraries in the 40th Senate District will receive nearly $65,000 in combined grants to grow and enhance their services, thanks to support from State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex). 

“Reading and comprehension is the foundation on which we learn,” Joyce said. “I am glad to see that so many deserving libraries in our community that prioritize this will benefit from this year’s grant.”

Three area libraries are set to receive a total of $64,351 to respond directly to difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant provides nearly $6 million in funding for libraries to modify services, transform spaces and develop resources for their local recovering workforce and to ensure all operations can be provided safely and effectively as the pandemic continues.

The following libraries in the 40th District will receive funds:

• Bradley Public Library District: $17,174
• Limestone Township Library District: $24,820
• Flossmoor Elementary School District 161: $16,857
• Coal City Public Library: $5,500

“With the ongoing pandemic, our libraries have faced huge obstacles, such as limiting access and having enough staff, but this funding will put these libraries on the path to recovery,” Joyce said.

A full list of libraries receiving a grant can be found here.