Prairie State Wire

The State of Illinois has completed the acquisition of a nearly 50-acre parcel in Will County, crucial for advancing the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. This federal initiative aims to prevent invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes. The land, which includes riverbed access for the Brandon Road lock, was donated by Midwest Generation LLC.

Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of protecting the Great Lakes ecosystem: "Millions of people in the Great Lakes region rely on its ecosystem for their livelihoods and protecting it has been a top priority since I took office." He acknowledged Midwest Generation's contribution, stating that their donation will benefit future generations.

Earlier this year, Governor Pritzker sought assurances from the federal government after funds were withheld by the Trump Administration. On May 9, these commitments were secured, allowing Illinois to proceed with acquiring the property. A White House memorandum expressed support for continuing the project.

IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie noted that acquiring this key piece of property brings them closer to realizing the project: "Today's closing on this key piece of property takes us another step closer to seeing the Brandon Road Interbasin Project become a reality."

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin highlighted invasive carp as an economic and environmental threat: "Completing the Brandon Road Project is one of the most effective ways we can address this threat and protect Illinois' fresh water." U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth also supported Governor Pritzker's actions: "We have been working for years to advance this project and I'm glad to see Governor Pritzker taking necessary action to move construction forward."

Illinois has played a significant role in advancing this project through collaboration with partners like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Executive Director Jen Walling praised Governor Pritzker's fiscal responsibility and leadership in ensuring funding was secured.

County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant expressed appreciation for moving forward with such a critical project: "This is essential for protecting the Great Lakes, ensuring long-term economic and environmental benefits."

Under President Biden's administration, $225 million was appropriated from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for this project. Despite previous funding cuts by Trump's administration affecting IDNR, Illinois continues efforts to unlock resources owed to them.

Governor Pritzker remains committed to safeguarding Illinois taxpayers from undue financial burdens while pursuing necessary infrastructure projects like Brandon Road.