CAHOKIA HEIGHTS, Ill. – Underscoring their support of investment in critical infrastructure residents depend on, State Senator Christopher Belt, Representative Jay Hoffman and Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza are highlighting the release of a $2.4 million state grant Monday to support water and sewer upgrades in Cahokia Heights.

“Leader Jay Hoffman, former Representative LaToya Greenwood and I have been working for months to fix Cahokia Heights’ infrastructure and sewer problems,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This has been a priority of ours – one that took time and effort. I look forward to pushing this project through to the finish line and this funding is exactly what is needed to continue moving forward.”

“This project is a significant investment in Cahokia Heights that will develop a 21st century wastewater system that will address flooding, improve reliability and ensure residents have access to the clean water they deserve,” said Hoffman (D-Swansea). “I am appreciative of the advocacy on this project from former Representative LaToya Greenwood, Senator Belt, Comptroller Mendoza, Governor Pritzker and everyone else who has worked hard behind the scenes to make this project a reality. With this funding released, I look forward to seeing shovels in the ground very soon.”

“I am pleased to partner with state leaders including Representative Hoffman, Senator Belt and former Representative Greenwood to prioritize funding for such a crucial project that will mean a better quality of life for residents in this region,” said Mendoza.

The $2.4 million payment – which is an upfront grant payment to Cahokia Heights for wastewater collection and to rehabilitate and restore components of the sewer collection and transport system – is part of more than $22 million in state funding expected to support the project. Monday’s $2.4 million release is part of a $9.9 million grant administered through the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

The existing Cahokia Heights wastewater collection system includes many components that have exceeded their useful design life, leading to reliability and flooding issues. Lift stations, slip lining and cured-in-place (CIPP) liner are the focus of the project, which will also aim to upgrade ease of operation and maintenance. Remaining funding for the project is subject to processing by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the City of Cahokia Heights.