CITY GETS $1 MILLION FLOOD GRANT

SCOTT CITY -- A federal $1 million flood-relief grant will pay for street repairs and other improvements in Scott City's Nash Road industrial area.

U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson announced the grant from his Washington, D.C., office Monday afternoon.

"This grant helps to fulfill the federal government's pledge to the victims of the Midwest floods," said Emerson. "Not only are we helping to repair the damage that's done, these funds also lay the foundation for an ever-improving economic climate and job creation in the Scott City community."

More than 1,500 people are employed in Scott City's industrial tract along Nash Road and Interstate 55. Its industries range from a wood products company and plastics recycling and manufacturing company to various trucking and transportation firms.

Mayor Larry Forhan said he expects a new transportation company to open in the industrial tract as a result of the grant. That could add 15 jobs to the community.

"I am absolutely thrilled," said Forhan.

The improvements will total about $1.4 million, with the federal grant paying the bulk of the cost. The remainder, nearly $400,000, will come from the state.

Sand boils from the flood caused significant damage last year to Nash Road and other roads in the industrial area such as Old Highway 61. The Nash Road pavement was pushed up a foot and a half in some places.

The roads will be repaired to commercial grade and a new bridge will be built, replacing a span on Old Highway 61. The improvements include some storm drainage work.