Normal Town Council approves $50,000 in arts grants and $1.6M street resurfacing contract

The Town of Normal has awarded a total of $52,600 in grants to support local arts organizations, marking a significant investment in the community's cultural landscape. The announcement came during the Town Council meeting on June 2, 2025, where various groups received funding to enhance their artistic endeavors.

Among the notable recipients, the 30th Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band received $1,500, while the Bloomington Normal Community Concert Band was awarded $1,000. The Brass Band of Central Illinois secured $2,000, and the Foxtel Film Festival, organized by the ISU School of Communication, received $2,500. Other highlights included $3,000 for Further Jazz Inc. for their fall concert and $1,650 for the Heartland Theater Company’s Holiday Spectacular.

Mayor Coos emphasized the importance of supporting the arts, stating, "It’s more important than ever that we as a community support the arts... The more you do, the more we can appreciate living in our community." This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Normal.

The council also discussed various infrastructure projects, including a $1,675,235 contract for street resurfacing, which was noted for its competitive pricing. The meeting underscored the town's dual focus on enhancing both its artistic and physical infrastructure, aiming to enrich the quality of life for its residents.