Press Releases

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura announced that Hyundai Translead is expanding its planned investment in Will County – creating a total of 3,750 new full-time jobs and investing $600 million. The State is also investing in a new Manufacturing Training Academy (MTA) at Joliet Junior College (JJC).  

“Joliet is the heartbeat of industry in Will County and the state of Illinois, and this new Hyundai Translead facility will bring jobs and bolster economic growth in the 43rd District and surrounding communities,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This investment proves we are a premier manufacturing destination and demonstrates a commitment to fostering relationships that promote economic development in our communities.”

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.