Press Releases

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.”

JOLIET - State Senator Rachel Ventura announced $126,000 will be awarded to two District 43 organizations thanks to funds appropriated by Senator Ventura and the federal Library Services and Technology Act.

“Everyone has the right to obtain basic literacy skills, and these literacy grants ensures those programs are available to anyone who wishes to partake,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Illinois Workers in Action and Joliet Junior College are committed to ensuring that children and adults have access to programs that improve essential skills.”

JOLIET – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced the recipients of the second round of the Regional Site Readiness program. The City of Lockport, located in State Senator Rachel Ventura’s district, will be receiving $119,600 for infrastructure assessment and topographic surveying to serve a 146-acre industrial site.

“The Regional Site Readiness program is an investment for future development – developments that are larger than just the land they sit on,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This program invests in infrastructure and economic development that will leave a lasting impact for generations.”

SPRINGFIELD – Continuing her work to promote child-first policies, a bill sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura that would give courts more flexibility in advocating for restorative justice programs for young people was signed into law by the governor Friday.

“This law recognizes that children are still developing and deserve opportunities for growth, guidance, and rehabilitation,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). "By prioritizing a child-first mindset, we can promote accountability in ways that help repair harm, support healthier futures for young people, and strengthen our communities as a whole.”