Belt celebrates grand opening of MidAmerica St. Louis Airport’s expanded terminal

• MidAmerica St. Louis Airport
• Airport
• Ribbon Cutting

METRO EAST – MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah announced their grand opening of an expanded terminal on Tuesday. Supported by State Senator Christopher Belt and other state and local officials, this is a transformative, $31 million multi-year project for the Metro East region.

“This is a big day for the Metro East. Whenever you can add terminals to an airport – that means growth and that’s what we want,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “The airport will be better equipped to meet the growing demands of passengers, airlines and businesses, driving even more economic growth and bolstering regional development.”

For the last 25 years, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport has been a popular travel choice for families in the Metro East and one of the busiest airports for travel in Illinois. The state-funded expansion will make the travel experience more convenient and comfortable for passengers flying through one of the state’s premier airports.

The MidAmerica St. Louis Airport terminal project expanded the existing 53,500-square-foot terminal by over 41,000square feet to meet the needs of the growing number of passengers at the airport. This project was made achievable through collaborative efforts of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, which provided $7 million in grant funding, and the support of $24 million in federal funding.

“DCEO is committed to supporting the growth of our state’s multibillion-dollar aviation system across Illinois,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “The terminal expansion at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport will elevate the travel experience for Illinoisans and visitors alike while ensuring our state remains a premier travel destination with unmatched infrastructure.”

The state’s investments in the aviation system continue to bolster economic development across Illinois. The MidAmerica St. Louis Airport has an annual economic impact of $3.1 billion while the statewide aviation system produces a $95.5 billion annual economic impact.

Belt measure to reduce unnecessary traffic stops signed by governor

• HB 2389

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt championed a new law that will prohibit law enforcement from pulling a driver over for having an object hanging from their rearview mirror.  

“The number of traffic stops that have occurred just because of a small personal item hanging on their rearview mirror has been excessive,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It’s time we eliminate this reasoning for being pulled over, as it has disproportionately affected specific communities.”

Previously, drivers could be pulled over for any objects hanging from the rearview mirror of their car such as decorations, disability placards, rosaries and car fresheners. House Bill 2389 clarifies that vehicles cannot be stopped or searched by a law enforcement officer solely on the basis of this violation.

“This law sends a powerful message that we will not tolerate racial profiling or other forms of discrimination in our state,” said Belt. “All drivers have rights and now, not being pulled over for displaying a personal item is one of them.”

House Bill 2389 was signed by the governor Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

Belt highlights public safety and infrastructure investments in Fiscal Year 2024 budget

• Budget
• FY 2024

SPRINGFIELD – With the governor’s signature Wednesday, the Fiscal Year 2024 budget will take effect July 1, and State Senator Christopher Belt emphasizes the key provisions of the budget that focus on public safety and infrastructure.

“There is a lot of focus on economic development and infrastructure in the budget, which demonstrates a steadfast commitment to the well-being and progress of our communities,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “From nearly $400 million to close major economic development deals and generating jobs, to designating $20 million to address food insecurity in disadvantaged areas, these investments will no doubt foster economic growth and promote vibrant communities in our region.”

Belt currently serves as chair of the Senate Appropriations – Public Safety and Infrastructure Committee and spent the spring legislative session continuing to ensure taxpayer dollars were being used wisely during budget conversations. Belt is also the southernmost Democrat in the Senate and made sure that downstate Illinois was not forgotten during these negotiations. He continued to push for investments in Illinois infrastructure, public safety and other important priorities over the last few months in Springfield.

“Public safety is another notable priority in the budget. Not only is there funding to equip law enforcement with the tools they need to effectively protect their communities, but there will be a second round of grants for the Reimagine Public Safety Act, which will help reduce gun violence in the state,” said Belt. “We are truly paving the way for a brighter future for all Illinois residents with all of the investments in the budget. This is a responsible, balanced plan and I am proud to support it.”

The FY 24 budget will take effect July 1.

Sen. Belt & Rep. Hoffman: Budget ensures financial responsibility and opportunity for the Metro East

SPRINGFIELD – Continuing their work to uplift families across the Metro East, State Senator Christopher Belt and State Representative Jay Hoffman supported a financially responsible state budget plan that provides services for those who need it most and makes crucial investments for the next generation.

“I made sure the Metro East was not forgotten in the budget process. I wanted to ensure that the municipalities that comprise the 57^th District received their fair share,” said Belt (D-Swansea) “That’s why there is a $15 million allocation for Veterans Property Tax Relief Reimbursement Pilot Program, which will reimburse St. Clair County for every property tax deduction, exemption and freeze they provide for our veterans.”

Belt, Chair of the Senate Appropriations - Public Safety & Infrastructure committee and Vice-Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee was deeply involved in budget negotiations for the Senate. He was proud to support a budget gives the Metro East’s infrastructure and education institutions the funding it needs.

“I also wanted to make sure that students in the area receive the same opportunities that students in Chicago and suburbs get,” said Belt. “The budget includes a $350 million in new funding toward the evidence-based funding model for K-12 education and increases need-based tuition assistance by $100 million – to a total of $701 million, which will help keep property taxes from rising and ensure that our students have access to great schools.”

This increased funding allows nearly all community college students at or below median income levels to have their tuition and fees covered through MAP and Pell Grants, which is good for Southwestern Illinois College and surrounding communities.

“This is a responsible and compassionate state budget that prioritizes investment in the issues families are facing,” Hoffman said. “We’re dedicating significant resources for our public safety efforts, while also increasing funding for childcare and early childhood education. If we want to build a stronger Illinois, we need to support the next generation and ensure that every individual in the Metro East has an opportunity to succeed. I appreciate the advocacy from Sen. Belt, Rep. Katie Stuart and all of the local leaders who used their voice to help put together a strong budget that will help our community.”

Once signed into law, the FY 24 Budget will take effect July 1.