News Releases from Region 05
Trump Administration to Support Community Revitalization in Mt. Pulaski, Illinois
MT. PULASKI, Ill. (May 7, 2019) – The Trump Administration has announced that Mt. Pulaski, Ill., is one of 15 communities selected to participate in Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP), a federal initiative that helps communities reinvest in existing neighborhoods and improve quality of life as they develop the local food economy. Through LFLP, a team of agricultural, environmental, public health and regional economic development experts will work directly with the Mt. Pulaski Economic Development and Planning Board and other community leaders to set goals and identify local assets that can support the local food economy.
“EPA is proud to partner with USDA and the Northern Border Regional Commission to offer support to communities looking to develop their local food economy,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “Support for local food initiatives can improve access to fresh foods, support farmers, grow new businesses, and protect the environment.”
In Mt. Pulaski, the Economic Development and Planning Board is working to create a local food hub, community food co-op, and a community garden on an underused empty lot to revitalize the downtown business district and support surrounding farms.
“Our community is excited about getting the Local Foods/Local Places process started,” said Economic Development and Planning Board Chair Tom Martin. “Our goal of growing and consuming more local foods is paramount to our long-term planning for not only economic development, but creating a healthy vibrant community. We are confident the technical assistance award will help us create a dynamic and successful template to achieve our goals.”
The 2019 Local Foods, Local Places communities were chosen from more than 70 applicants. Since its launch in 2014, LFLP has helped 93 communities across the country develop local food enterprises, such as farmers markets, community gardens and cooperative grocery stores, that improve environmental, economic, and health outcomes.
For more information about Local Foods, Local Places: https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/local-foods-local-places
For more information about LFLP communities selected in 2019: https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/local-foods-local-places#2019
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