Elected officials joined Nicor Gas officials at a ribbon-cutting event in Pembroke Township Monday. Local leaders and community folks were also in attendance for the community’s vision toward the future. Nicor Gas is delivering service to the Kankakee County community.

Hopkins Park and the township are hopeful the new service will brighten hopes for economic opportunity. This was years in the making and something that Rep. Jackie Haas and Senator Patrick Joyce were instrumental in making a reality. The two local lawmakers backed the bill in the Illinois House to bring natural gas to Pembroke Township, an area people. that has been historically underserved—going without a safe or reliable energy source.

Local, state and federal lawmakers have worked together over the last few years with Nicor Gas, facilitating the natural gas service and the necessary financing for the project in Pembroke Township. Incredible progress has already been made, as construction for the natural gas infrastructure is underway.

Without access to natural gas, residents in Pembroke have been forced to heat their homes and cook with wood, propane gas or electricity, which has caused a significant financial burden for many people. Haas, Joyce and Congresswoman Robin Kelly eye the legislation as something that may lead to business development and a boost to the local economy.

HB3404 passed in June 2021 after significant bipartisan support.

94.1 WGFA