According to an article in The Rock River Times, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced 2014 Boat Access Area Development grants totaling $715,200 in six communities.
“These projects will create jobs, offer recreational opportunities and promote healthy lifestyles,” Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn told the newspaper. “They will also promote economic development by adding one more attractive feature to each of these communities.”
The Boat Access Area Development Program provides financial assistance to local government agencies for the acquisition, construction, and expansion or rehabilitation of public boat and canoe access areas on Illinois’ lakes and rivers. The program provides up to 100 percent of approved project construction costs and 90 percent of approved land acquisition costs.
A limit of $200,000 per project per year is imposed. Revenue for the program is derived from marine motor fuel tax and boat and canoe registration fees.
Communities receiving grants include:
Village of Machesney Park in Winnebago County: $200,000 to construct a boat ramp and dock. The project will improve access for the public and help local law enforcement respond more quickly to emergencies.
City of Evanston in Cook County: $200,000 to construct an extension for the Church Street Boat Ramp to upgrade the facility and improve safety. The ramp provides Lake Michigan access for powerboats, sailboats and personal watercraft.
City of Oglesby in LaSalle County: $152,225 to construct a safe and accessible launch along the Vermilion River. A parking lot will be constructed for cars and vehicles with trailers.
City of Galena in Jo Daviess County: $80,000 to construct canoe and kayak access to the Galena River. The project includes adjacent parking and a loading/unloading area.
City of Freeport in Stephenson County: $64,600 to build an accessible floating dock and canoe/kayak launch along the Pecatonica River Water Trail.
Dixon Park District in Lee County: $18,375 to build a boat ramp extension to provide safe access to the Rock River during times of low water.
