SALEM — CERTIFIED CITY

Prior to the past eighteen month period, who could have expected the events that were to take place. That is, considering that the improvements accomplished during the period 1981-86 were probably more than most would have thought possible, it would have been unrealistic to anticipate that the new Route 50 railroad underpass would be constructed and opened, a new 500,000 gallon elevated water storage tank constructed, a new library opened, construction underway on a new (privately developed) 300 acre industrial park, a new wastewater treatment facility under construction, one major industrial expansion and another major industry expanding its operations in Illinois to Salem. In addition, Salem was recently designated the 33rd Certified City in Illinois.

Salem, a city of 8,000, relies heavily on the efforts, support and cooperation of local officials, community and industry leaders and citizens, as well as State and Federal officials and agencies in its projects. The many recent successes testify to the "working together" attitude that exists. One who was recently honored was the late Mayor, Charles L. McMackin II, who passed away before the completion of the Route 50 underpass. His many years of effort were instrumental in making the underpass a reality. Cooperation was essential in the major expansion of Radiac, a producer of grinding wheels, and the addition of a new plant in Salem to the operations of North American Lighting, a producer of various types of lights for automobiles. In both cases, a number of new jobs were created.

The new 500,000 gallon water storage tank will assist North American Lighting and other existing industry, as well as serve the new 300 acre industrial park.

Salem has also been fortunate in that all improvements or activities have resulted in multiple benefits, opening new areas for residential, commercial and industrial growth, meeting the needs of the future, as well as the present, and the creation of new jobs.

Further evidence of the attitude and spirit within Salem was the desire to become a Certified City. The endeavor would ultimately take two years, due to the many other ongoing projects and shortage of personnel; nevertheless, Salem is now proud to be a Certified City, the 33rd, with the distinction of being the first in Southern Illinois, south of Interstate 70.

Additional information — cost factors: Underpass $3,000,0000+; Water Tower $600,000+; Wastewater Plant $7,000,000+; Library $400,000+. Financed through local, state and federal funds. •

Page 18 / Illinois Municipal Review / May 1988