KANKAKEE – In order to allow all Illinois residents to have access to high-speed internet, State Senator Patrick Joyce has played an essential role in ensuring federal funding from the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program is being used efficiently.

“Access to high-speed internet isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity in today’s digital age,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “From education to health care to economic opportunities, reliable internet access is vital for all communities to have, even rural areas.”

The Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021 included $42.45 billion for the BEAD Program in an effort to connect all U.S. households, small businesses and community anchor institutions to high-speed internet. Around $1 billion in BEAD funding has been allocated to Illinois to provide internet access to the approximately 230,000 entities in the state that cannot get access to at least 100/20 Mbps service or 1/1 Gbps service.

CHICAGO HEIGHTS – Bethel Family Resource Center in Chicago Heights is set to receive funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, thanks to strong support from State Senator Patrick Joyce.

“We need to be investing in our workforce whenever possible,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This program continues to help our local economy and improves access for individuals seeking high-demand jobs in the trades.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded over $18 million in grants to 36 recipients through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, including $440,000 for Bethel Family Resource Center in Joyce’s district. The program creates a diverse pool of talented and qualified candidates in construction and building trades, as well as helps participants to secure employment and establish a career in the field.

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Pre-apprenticeship programs are comprehensive and help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity for obtaining employment in the trade of construction and securing a lifelong career.

“Pre-apprenticeship programs open doors for individuals to have a successful career and future,” said Joyce. “I remain dedicated to supporting and investing in our workforce so residents have the opportunity to have good-paying jobs that will benefit them, as well as our economy in the long run.”

To learn more about the grant funding and program and view the full list of recipients, visit here.

KANKAKEE – Three transit providers in the Kankakee area were awarded more than $1.6 million to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options, thanks to support from State Senator Patrick Joyce.

“Seniors and individuals with disabilities often face challenges in accessing transportation assistance that meet their needs,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “The funding for these new vehicles will go a long way in ensuring we are expanding transportation options that will provide better accessibility for these populations.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The program helps smaller transit agencies navigate the red tape of the public bidding process while ensuring their vehicles meet federal requirements and specifications.

Transit providers in Joyce’s district set to receive funding include:

• River Valley Metro Mass Transit: $1,392,000
• Kankakee County: $172,000
• Thresholds: $115,000

A full list of awardees can be found here.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) released the following statement after hearing the governor’s proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget:

“Today’s budget address had funding suggestions that our state needs to continue to prioritize such as education, public safety and economic development.

“The governor’s proposal sets a framework for us to begin having conversations to develop a final plan. We need a budget that is not only fiscally responsible but also considers parents, workers, seniors, veterans and farmers.

“This is a good start to begin discussions. I am hopeful my colleagues and I can come together over the next few months to ensure we can pass a balanced budget.”