Ridgway officials recently welcomed Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15) to the village, where he got a look at the police department’s new black and white SUV. Purchase of the vehicle was made possible by a $25,000 grant from the Community Facilities Direct Loans and Grants Program of U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development.
“If not for the federal investment, Ridgway would have struggled to come up with the $35,986 total cost of the SUV,” Shimkus said. “Instead, it was able to contribute a much more manageable amount.”
“We greatly appreciate the investment made by USDA Rural Development,” Ridgway Mayor Rebecca Mitchell said. “Without such grant programs, it would be very difficult for small communities to make these types of much-needed equipment purchases.”
The congressman added, “I want to thank Rural Development and echo what it stated in its announcement of the funding, that this police vehicle will ensure public safety for the community and provide safe and reliable transportation for officers.”
Shimkus noted that his office can assist communities and organizations who would like to apply for any federal grants. Those interested should call his Maryville office at (618) 288-7190.
