Peoria to use federal COVID dollars for park improvements, provide job training for city’s homeless

PEORIA (HEART OF ILLINOIS ABC) - The cost of a new training restaurant for Peoria’s homeless population and upgrades for one of the city’s oldest parks will come from federal COVID-19 funds.

The city council Tuesday night approved $680,000 to Phoenix Community Development Services for housing and job training, which include creating a restaurant where members of the homeless population can find “supported employment” and training.

The council also agreed unanimously to direct $600,000 for Trewyn Park improvements on the city’s south side. The project includes relocating the basketball court, adding a shelter, and new playground equipment.

Trewyn is one of the city’s five oldest parks. It originally was called South Park.

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