Congressman Eric Sorensen Secures Over $4 Million in Federal Community Project Funding for Rockford Region

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced today that he has secured more than $33 million in federal Community Project Funding for communities across Illinois' 17th Congressional District, with $4 million invested directly in the Rockford region to strengthen critical water and sewer infrastructure.

The federal funding is a part of a broader bipartisan government funding bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives last week. Next, it goes to the Senate, where it will debated and voted on before being signed by the President and enacted.

"I'm proud to advocate for my neighbors in Congress to bring back taxpayer dollars funding essential infrastructure projects that will make a real difference in people's daily lives," said Congressman Sorensen. "Meeting with Freeport and Germany Valley leaders, I've learned they are working with outdated water distribution systems and wastewater treatment plants that urgently need repairs. I urge the Senate to act quickly to take up this legislation and pass it into law so these critical projects can move forward."

"The Village of German Valley greatly appreciates Congressman Sorensen's efforts on our behalf," said Village of German Valley President Mark Jewell. "This funding will go a long way toward helping to improve the water quality discharged out of our community. The funding will help to keep living in the community affordable by assisting us in making necessary improvements."

"The City of Freeport has benefited tremendously through the efforts of Congressman Sorensen," said City of Freeport Mayor Jodi Miller. "The $1.09 million from the Community Project Funding will be used towards the city's water distribution system. We are grateful for Congressman Sorensen's assistance to improve not only the quality of our water but also improving the quality of life for our residents."

Projects for the Rockford region:

Village of German Valley - $3,000,000

The funding will support the rebuilding of German Valley's wastewater system at its wastewater treatment plant. This funding will go toward a larger project to install a polishing reactor and a new lift station.

City of Freeport - $1,092,000

The funding will address Freeport's water distribution system, which is too small and in deteriorating condition. This funding will strengthen the city's infrastructure foundation to support existing and residential water for customers while also eliminating any water distribution system-related barriers for new and existing businesses to grow in the area.

The Community Project Funding process provides an opportunity for local projects to receive federal funding assistance to complete them. Members of Congress are allowed to submit requests for projects in cities, towns, or villages in their district to be considered for eligible funding by the House Appropriations Committee.