Senator Laura Murphy to host blood drive

DES PLAINES—To address the nationwide blood shortage, State Senator Laura Murphy is holding a Blood Drive Tuesday, Sept. 13 at the Prairie Lake Community Center.

“Blood transfusions are required for many life-saving operations and procedures,” said Murphy (D—Des Plaines). “When there is a short supply of blood, less operations can be performed safely—leaving many people without the immediate medical attention they need.  I hope this drive will bolster our local blood supply to make sure those who need medical care can get treatment as quickly as possible.”

In January, the Red Cross announced they were experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. Hospitals across the country were only receiving one-quarter of the blood products they requested, severely limiting the amount and type of procedures doctors would be able to perform. With less donations on average over the summer because of schedule changes and vacation time, now is a great time to donate and work on replenishing the blood supply.

Senator Murphy’s drive will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from noon to 5 p.m. in the Mountain View Rooms of the Prairie Lake Community Center, located at 515 E. Thacker St. in Des Plaines. Her office recommends filling out this form before arrival. 

Communities eligible for complete assistance through OSLAD program

• Parks
• Infrastructure

DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy is encouraging communities with economic challenges in the 28th District to apply for assistance through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program. The program, which usually requires matching funds for projects, now offers complete assistance for distressed communities.

“Local parks provide an invaluable service to the community. Securing funding for them will revitalize our communities and attract further investments in the future,” said Murphy (D- Des Plaines). “I encourage all local park districts to apply for this grant opportunity.”

The FY 23 budget allocated $56 million for OSLAD, the largest single investment in the program’s history, allowing the Department of Natural Resources to assist more communities than ever before. OSLAD requires grantees to provide matching funds for development projects, however with this investment the program is offering complete funding for economically disadvantaged communities.

Applications are being accepted through Sept. 30, 2022 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.

Senator Murphy, Mercer County Farm Bureau hold sweet corn donation for local food pantries

• community event
• corn
• donation

DES PLAINES –To make sure every family in the community has the option to enjoy fresh seasonal produce, State Senator Laura Murphy partnered with Mercer County Farm to donate sweet corn to local food pantries, including Elk Grove Township Pantry, the Schaumburg Barn, Maine Township Pantry, the Center of Concern, Des Plaines Self Help Closet, Catholic Charities in Des Plaines, and the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry.

“Sweet corn is an Illinois delicacy—but unfortunately, fresh produce is not accessible to many families because of their location or socioeconomic status,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I am proud that this partnership allows for more corn to go back to the community, and ensuring all of us can enjoy this summer’s crop.”

This donation is the latest event of the ongoing partnership between Mercer County Farm Bureau and Sen. Murphy’s office. The Bureau participates in the Adopt a Legislator Program, working with Senator Murphy on agriculture-related legislation, holding tours for the Senator of their facilities, and provides resources for local events like the upcoming donation. Senator Murphy looks forward to continue the partnership moving forward, including learning more about the agricultural industry and giving back to her community.

Senator Murphy celebrates more than $43 million in infrastructure investments

• Infrastructure

SPRINGFIELD – Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by Senator Laura Murphy, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced approximately $43.35 million in road and bridge improvement projects for the 28th District, and Senator Murphy is looking forward to see these funds at work in her community.

 “Infrastructure is such an essential part of our society because it literally connects us to each other and to our community,” said Murphy (D—Des Plaines). “Our bridges, roads, and highways help make sure we get to work and to our families safely. I look forward to seeing this investment make real improvements in my community’s infrastructure to maintain the standards of safety and efficiency we deserve.”

 As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Murphy represents will see 22 infrastructure projects totaling more than $43.35 million over the next six years.

Some of the projects coming to the area in the next year include:
   • Bridge repair on IL-53 and Touhy Avenue
   • Pavement rehabilitation on Algonquin Road
   • Reconstruction of Rodenburg Road and National Parkway

These projects are part of IDOT’s multi-year plan, a $34.6 billion investment in construction projects for the next six fiscal years.

The $34.6 billion will go to highway reconstruction and preservation, bridge improvements, strategic expansion, system support such as engineering and land acquisition, and safety and system modernizations. Over six years, the funding will be dispersed to improve more than 2,500 miles of roads and nearly 10 million square feet of bridges.

“This investment will improve access and connectivity in the district I represent, as well as throughout the state,” Murphy said. “Prioritizing our aging infrastructure system is long overdue, and I am glad to see these projects in the works for commuting families all over our great state.”

To find a full list of projects slated for the 28th Senatorial District, visit IDOT’s website.