State Representative Chad Hays (R-Catlin) has announced that State funds awarded to the Danville Art League for infrastructure and safety improvements that have been delayed since 2009 have been authorized for release by the Governor’s Office of Management & Budget (GOMB). The funds were initially awarded as part of the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity’s (DECO) Illinois Jobs Now! Capital Plan, but only a portion of the funds were ever delivered.
“The Danville Art League was awarded a $75,000 grant in 2009, but some of the money never arrived,” said Hays. “They received nothing between 2009 and 2014, then eventually received $15,734 in December of 2014. The League then received $40,516 in 2015, but the balance remained bottled up in Springfield. I am pleased to know the remaining $15,734 has been authorized to be released.”
The Danville Art League is located at 320 N. Franklin Street in downtown Danville. The goals of the league are to stimulate creativity and art appreciation through classes and informal sessions at the League’s studio or in the field, and to facilitate an appreciation and understanding of the accomplishments of others. The Art League also provides local artists with locations for exhibiting their work and acts as a resource center for the public.
“The Danville Art League is a staple of the downtown area, and it provides a valuable service for those who live in the area,” Hays said. “With the remainder of their DECO grant now on its way, the League will be able to finish with infrastructure improvements that will allow those who live in Danville and surrounding communities to enjoy the League’s offerings for years to come.”