Plans to upgrade the campgrounds in New Boston, Illinois, are on hold as Gov. Bruce Rauner re-evaluates millions in state grants.
In December, Mayor Chris DeFrieze learned that the town had been awarded a $400,000 grant through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Plans for the money included building a pavilion and fire pit, heated showers and bathrooms, an eagle watch, 1.5-mile hiking path, and expanding the campground from 60 to 70 sites.
"The town really needs this. We're always preaching and talking about economic development. This will add some revenue to the city," said DeFrieze.
Last month, though, DeFrieze received a letter explaining that the grant had been suspended as part of the Governor's spending freeze.
"I think taking money from these little communities that really depend on it and get all excited... it kind of stinks. But, you know, we're staying positive about it," said DeFrieze.
DeFrieze said he's hopeful that after July 1st, New Boston will get the go-ahead to start spending.
In the meantime, the town is making riverfront improvements on its own dime. Workers recently finished building a large retaining wall along the slough, and there are plans to add statues of Chief Black Hawk and a young Abraham Lincoln to the site.
"The river is our asset, and we have to put it to use," said DeFrieze.
Currently, the Sturgeon Bay campground brings in nearly $80,000 in revenue to the town each year. DeFrieze estimates that with the proposed improvements, that could jump to $110,000.