The 40th annual Chillifest was a win not just for the cook-off and pageant champions, but also for the local economy as a whole.  Businesses on the square – whether under a tent or within brick and mortar – stand to benefit greatly from the high turnout.  This comes amid harvest season for farmers.  As Illinois plays an integral role in the country’s agricultural scene, this time of year can see great growth in that sector, as well.  However, the recent dry weather could well have an effect on outcomes this year. 

Matt Hart, the Executive Director of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation, is keeping an eye on all of this.  He says events like Chillifest – and the high traffic they draw – serve many components of the complex system that is the local economy. 

As for the harvest season, Hart says many farmers he has spoken to are producing yields which are the driest they’ve ever seen.  How exactly this affects the yields’ use in areas such as oil remains to be seen. 

Away from the farm, the Illinois Department of Transportation has announced a new multi-year program to improve the state’s roadways.  It will cost around $50.6 billion, which comes in part from the 2019 motor fuel tax increase.  The program includes four projects in Christian County.  Two of those are expected to be completed within the coming year.  They include work on Illinois Route 29 in Pana, along with Mt. Auburn Road.

The other two projects will take place within the following five years.  There will be more construction on Route 29 and Lincoln Trail, both in Taylorville.

More information on the CCEDC is available at www.christiancountyedc.com. 

Matt Hart appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.