Strengthening Rural and Downstate Communities
JB has worked tirelessly to serve all of Illinois and grow our rural and downstate communities. That’s why he’s worked to support our state’s farmers, small towns, and rural communities.
- Launched Connect Illinois to expand broadband internet access across the entire state
- Committed state resources and support to build the Cairo Port, which is projected to create 500 good-paying jobs and over $100 million of economic activity per year for Southern Illinois
- Signed legislation authorizing casino licenses downstate, including Rockford, Walker’s Bluff, and Danville
- Initiated and signed the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which is building and repairing thousands of miles of roads and bridges across downstate Illinois
- Offered discounts to farmers for acres of cover crops installed
- Launched a pilot program to support quality improvements for child care providers in rural Illinois communities
- Expanded wind and solar production downstate to create jobs and revitalize communities while protecting landowners
- Invested $100 million to build new buildings and upgrade existing buildings at Southern Illinois University
- Secured a $2.2 billion commitment from Taiwan to purchase Illinois corn and soybeans
- Expanded skills development with new investments in vocational training and career and technical training in high school
Read More About My Vision For Illinois
Back to Top