Letter from Senator Gillmor published in the Marion Star on 4/22/09

http://www.marionstar.com/article/20090421/OPINION03/371

Thanks to Marion County engineer for hard work

Marion County Engineer Brad Irons deserves our sincere thanks for his hard work to secure more than $5 million in federal stimulus dollars for the Northwest Industrial Connector. At a time when jobs are leaving Marion County by the hundreds, this project will save, create, or secure more than 50 badly-needed jobs.

Planning for the connector project began more than four years ago. Because of unexpected delays and expenses, however, it faced significant funding shortages and even further delay. Because of Mr. Irons' preparation and advance planning, however, the connector proposal was a "shovel ready" project, making it a prime candidate to receive federal stimulus dollars. By immediately assembling all interested parties and having more than two-thirds of the total funding package already compiled, Brad Irons enabled his team to advocate effectively and successfully for the final funds when the stimulus opportunity began.

Marion County residents and businesses alike will reap the benefits of this project in many ways. It will open development potential along the corridor, alleviate the negative impact of truck traffic on downtown Marion streets, improve access for Marion industries including Whirlpool Corp., and create an overall safer transportation infrastructure for the community. Congratulations to Marion County Engineer Brad Irons and everyone else who worked to secure the success of this important project.

Karen Gillmor

State Senator

26th Senate District