By Adam Studzinski
NORMAL – The Town of Normal has been named a Progressive City by Ameren Illinois.
The designation means Normal has been energy efficient and is forward thinking, according to Ameren Community Relations Director Paula Heinkel.
“They have been very forward thinking in terms of having a place where you can have electric vehicle charging stations. They have a green roof here with the Town of Normal,” said Heinkel. “You also have incredible savings that have been realized through energy efficiency products.”
This is the seventh year Ameren has designated progressive cities. Normal Mayor Chris Koos said it’s the first time the town made the list.
“It’s just, I think, a recognition of things that we’ve done in the past 10 to 15 years to make our community more energy efficient, more environmentally responsible,” Koos said.
The designation comes with a $2,500 grant, which Mayor Chris Koos said the town will use the funds to create two “insect hotels.” Koos explained these hotels work as pollinator habitats.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
