Working for Illinois Caucus

ROCKFORD — A nonprofit housing cooperative on the city’s southwest side will get critical fixes to its residents’ homes through a nearly $1 million state grant.

The Central Terrace Co-Operative is a resident-led community designed to provide its members with affordable housing. The 150 units in more than 50 buildings along Bishop Washington Avenue were originally Army barracks during World War II, according to Kathleen Jamerson, board president of the co-op.

In recent years, electrical issues inside some of the homes have sparked fires, she said. There were also electric outlets that wouldn’t work, preventing the use of lighting or air conditioning units in some spaces, and other issues such as drafty or damaged windows.

“This was a true blessing,” Jamerson said. “It will make the members safe. They’ll be able to adequately use the outlets and have lighting where they need it. It’s really important.”

The co-op reached out to state Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, who helped them win a $930,000 grant through the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. The money will help replace electrical wiring and install new windows in each of the units. It will also help repair a maintenance garage with new siding, roofing and asbestos removal.

“Bringing long-term improvements into our communities so that residents can thrive in their homes and neighborhoods is always a top priority for me,” West said. “This funding represents more than just infrastructure — it’s an investment in people, stability and the future of this community.”

The work is being handled by Kee Solutions, a Rockford-based construction company. Approximately 15 people will be part of the job, all earning prevailing wages. The work is expected to be complete by November.

“I love it because it’s my community and I know that I can maximize the dollars for them,” said Quentin Wainwright Sr., president of Kee Solutions. “I know there are other contractors where it’s all about profit. For me, it’s all about community.”

Jamerson said they will pursue other grants in the future to help pay for new siding, roofs, cement fixes and other beautification.

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas