Scherer Announces Road Improvement Grants Coming to Her District

Springfield, Ill. – New funding secured by state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Springfield, will enhance roadways, bridges, and rail safety in Central Illinois communities, helping ensure stronger and safer transportation for residents, commuters, and local economies.

“Investments in our local infrastructure are investments in our future,” said Scherer. “From resurfacing neighborhood roads to rebuilding major thoroughfares and bridges, these projects will make travel safer and reduce long-term maintenance costs. These upgrades aren’t just about concrete; they’re about improving the quality of life. Whether it’s making daily commutes smoother, ensuring trains run safely through our city, or supporting rural communities with much-needed bridge repairs, these investments will deliver real results for families.”

The fiscally and socially responsible state budgets Scherer has passed have enabled investment in critical infrastructure projects for Sangamon and Macon Counties. The recently announced project includes:

● Cherry Road Improvements– Leland Grove ($264,116): Asphalt overlay to extend the life of the roadway, improve surface conditions, and enhance safety.

● Reas Bridge Gap Funding– City of Decatur ($3 million): Covers shortfall for critical bridge construction over Lake Decatur, ensuring safety and preserving local funding for other essential projects.

● Turnkey Microtransit Operations – City of Decatur Public Transit ($11.6 million): Enhances scalability and reduces operational burden, providing more flexible transit options.

● North Grand Avenue Reconstruction–Village of Grandview ($250,000): Major redesign to address failing pavement, stormwater issues, and safety concerns on one of the area’s busiest thoroughfares.

● Springfield Rail Improvements Project ($10 million): Expansion of the Springfield rail improvement project to enhance Amtrak performance, eliminate at-grade crossings, and support new development in the Medical District.

“These projects reflect the collaboration between local governments, the state, and federal partners to make sure our region has the modern infrastructure it needs” said Scherer “The improvements will benefit residents for decades to come.”

“I’m proud to help secure resources that will strengthen our communities. These grants specifically improve reliable infrastructure that keeps our neighborhoods connected and lays the foundation for economic growth in central Illinois.”