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Upgrades Coming to Knox, Monmouth

Rich Egger

The state will help improve the campuses of some private colleges in western Illinois.

Governor Pat Quinn has announced $3 million in grants for Knox, Monmouth, and Augustana Colleges for various projects.

During a stop in the Quad Cities, Quinn said the grants are funded by the Illinois Jobs Now capital construction program, which pays for infrastructure projects across the state.

"This is from our capital account that’s separate from the general revenue of our state," said Quinn.

"About four years ago we passed a number of fees as well as closing loopholes as well as using some of the money from other sources of income in order to fund the bonds for this program."

He said investments in college campuses not only benefit students, but also create jobs.

Knox College will receive more than $900,000  for work on Old Main, the student union, and center for fine arts.

Monmouth will also receive about $900,000 to fund some of its campus building projects.

Augustana College received $1.3 million, which will help pay for the renovation of Old Main and construction of the Center for Student Life.