Davis Junction granted $3 million to help spur economic development

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Village Trustee William Luchsinger says he spotted Davis Junction’s potential for economic development more than a decade ago, when trustees bought a huge chunk of land near IL Route 72. What they didn’t know, however, was how they’d get the funding to actually develop it.

“Ogle County was one of the hardest communities hit due to COVID, across the state,” said Luchsinger.

This prompted the village to apply for a grant that eases hardships brought on by the pandemic.

“Being such a small community, we’ve been trying, and trying, and trying to get development and growth,” said Davis Junction Village President Rick Wurm.

Leaders worried the village’s modest population of a little over 2,600 residents would deter their chances, but the state surprised them, saying they were a top match.

“The maximum grant was $3 million dollars, and we received $3 million dollars,” said Luchsinger.

Luchsinger says the grant from the state’s Rebuild Illinois (RBI) Downtowns program, allows the village to break ground on an 8,000 square foot commercial building, where small business owners can finally launch their careers.

“We received a lot of inquiry from small business owners,” said Luchsinger. “However, they don’t have the funds or the means to put in the infrastructure of water, sewer and roads, or a building, and that’s exactly what this grant is going to do.”

Luchsinger says the development location is great for business, because it’s right near two major highways, where the village sees a high volume of traffic. He hopes it can also inspire other communities, about what opportunities are in store.

“It’s a great success story for the village of Davis Junction,” said Luchsinger.

On top of the $3 million dollars, the village got an additional $100,000 dollar grant this year to help in expanding it’s community park.

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