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In spite of the economic downturn in 2008, the Village of Bethalto continued to grow residentially. That continued growth demonstrates that Bethalto is a community where people desire to move and reside.
We are looking forward to several projects in 2009 including:
* Phase II of the West Corbin Extension from Stadium Drive to just over the new Illinois 255. Along with that, we have applied for funding for Phase III, which will continue to connect West Corbin to Route 140 in Cottage Hills at Thelma Ave.
* We are also finalizing engineering on the Central Street project which will improve Central Street from the intersection at Prairie, heading east to Moreland Road. That project will include new concrete street, curb and gutter, and sidewalks. This is a great project for our community and will enhance the safety of our children who attend Parkside Elementary, the Boys and Girls Club, and our Central Park area.
* Jinkinson Bridge is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion sometime in August prior to the start of the new school year.
* Along with these infrastructure improvements, we also have park projects that are being funded through several grants, enabling us to provide new playground equipment at Southside Park, and additional playground equipment around the swimming pool area at Central Park, where the basketball court will also be rebuilt and resurfaced.
* The Village has also submitted proposals under the Stimulus Package requesting additional funding for road projects, sanitary sewer projects, and storm water projects.
* We are also continuing our efforts to work with local agencies to bring much-needed services to our area for residents with special needs. Our fundraising efforts in 2008 exceeded our goals. The Bethalto Charity Events Committee raised more than $110,000 combined for Autism Speaks and Special Olympics. The hard work from the committee demonstrates the dedication and commitment of the Bethalto community and the outcomes reflect its generosity.
The following fundraising events are scheduled for 2009.
June 26: Benefit Golf Tournament at Clover Leaf Golf Course
July 25: Car Show in the Village Park
August 14: Charity Auction at the Bethalto K of C Hall
October 3: Mayor's Walk for Charity and Family Day at Culp Lane Park