Press Releases

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura secured funds for local not-for-profits that provide arts programming from the Illinois Arts Council. In total, over $86,848 was awarded to 10 organizations in the 43rd District.

“Our communities prosper when we have strong arts programs that serve everyone,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “These funds will be used for a variety of purposes, but all have the same goal: strengthening of the arts. The arts are the foundation of our community and I applaud these grantees who are doing the work to ensure the arts continue thrive.”

JOLIET – Tourism in the 43rd District will receive a financial boost through recent grants to promote Route 66 during its centennial, thanks to State Senator Rachel Ventura, who helped secure over $553,000 for two local organizations.

“From Route 66 and the Old Joliet Prison to the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Site and the Rialto Square Theater, the 43rd District is home to some of Illinois’ most famous attractions,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Being situated in the suburbs of Chicago offers a unique challenge to attract domestic and international visitors, but I applaud the efforts and success that our municipalities and visitor bureaus put into promoting all the amazing sites we have in our communities.”

JOLIET – Senator Rachel Ventura has secured over $360,000 for school districts in District 43 through the Teacher Vacancy Pilot Program. These grants will continue the state’s efforts to address educator shortages in the communities facing the greatest staffing challenges.

“As a mother who had two daughters go through the public school system, I have seen firsthand the struggles many districts face with the recruitment and retention of high quality educators,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Educators are the foundation of a high quality education and this tailored funding will ensure that our children have the ability to succeed in and out of the classroom.

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura, Governor J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation announced $91.8 million worth of road improvements coming to Will County.

“IDOT’s investment in local infrastructure is a much-needed step toward repairing the roads that carry our communities and our economy every day,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Heavy truck traffic has taken a toll on many of these routes, leaving rough, deteriorated surfaces that affect everyone who travels them. Investing in resurfacing and strengthening these truck routes will not only extend the life of our roads, but also provide a smoother, safer ride for motorists and improve the movement of freight throughout our communities.”