Illinois Governor Delays $1.2 Billion Invasive Carp Project Due to Funding Concerns
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has put a hold on a $1.2 billion project aimed at preventing invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes, citing concerns over the federal government’s share of the funding. The delay could last several months as the state seeks assurances that President Donald Trump’s administration will cover the costs.
Project Background
For years, Illinois, Michigan, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have been working on a plan to install technologies in the Des Plaines River near Joliet, Illinois, to deter carp from reaching Lake Michigan. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated federal funding for the project, with Illinois and Michigan securing provisions for the federal government to cover 90% of operation and maintenance costs.
Pritzker’s Decision
The groundbreaking ceremony for the project was scheduled for Tuesday, but the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced a delay in handing over property for the project. Governor Pritzker expressed concerns over the Trump administration’s freeze on federal grants, which has impacted state projects and raised doubts about the federal funding for the carp project.
Pritzker emphasized the need to protect Illinois taxpayers and avoid potential liabilities if federal funding does not come through as promised. The prolonged delay could jeopardize the project’s future, leading to uncertainty about its completion.
Potential Impact
Invasive carp pose a significant threat to the Great Lakes ecosystem, with the potential to disrupt native species and the region’s fishing industry valued at $7 billion. The project at the Brandon Road Lock and Dam aims to install barriers and technologies to prevent the spread of carp and protect the lakes’ biodiversity.
While some work on the project will continue, the delay raises concerns about its overall progress and the risk of a political battle that could derail the initiative. Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Scott Bowen emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to safeguard the Great Lakes from invasive species.
As the debate over funding and project timelines continues, stakeholders remain committed to finding solutions to protect the Great Lakes and preserve their ecological integrity.
