SPRINGFIELD, IL – Douglas County’s last legislative hurdle to a new economic development opportunity was cleared July 25, when the Governor signed Senate Bill 20 allowing the county to remain in the “running” for a $1.2 billion fertilizer plant.
“I would like to thank the Governor’s office and the legislative leaders for their commitment to this massive economic development project. Tuscola and Douglas County have worked extremely hard on the local end to help lure the CRONUS project,” State Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) said. “CRONUS has the potential to be a huge economic shot in the arm and an excellent opportunity for approximately 225 permanent jobs to be added in the central Illinois’ agricultural community.”
Brian Moody, Executive Director of Tuscola Economic Development Incorporated, thanked local leaders, like Senator Rose and State Rep. Adam Brown (R-Champaign) for their involvement.
“I would like to thank Chapin and Adam for their dedication to Tuscola and our region’s economic growth. Both legislators worked to help shepherd the legislation through the Illinois General Assembly to bring good jobs to our area,” Moody said. “At the city and county levels, we have all been engaged in a collaborative effort to land this billion-plus dollar project and the construction and long-term jobs that will accompany the construction of the CRONUS fertilizer plant.”
CRONUS Chemicals is expected to make the site selection announcement in the coming weeks. An estimated 225 permanent jobs and 1,000 construction jobs will be a direct result of the $1.2 billion fertilizer plant, if it locates in Douglas County.