Sangamon Sun

Major road and bridge projects are planned for Illinois’ 44th Senate District in 2026, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) Multi-Year Program. Over $137 million will be allocated to these projects, which aim to improve travel safety, strengthen infrastructure, and support local communities.

State Senator Sally Turner commented on the investments: "These investments are an important win for families, farmers, and businesses that depend on reliable and safe roads."

The planned work is part of a broader six-year plan that will bring nearly $797 million in total transportation projects across the 51st Senate District. A complete list of projects included in IDOT’s six-year Highway Improvement Program for the 44th District is available online.

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on screening, education, and prevention related to breast cancer—the second most common cancer among American women. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. In 2025, it is estimated that 316,950 women and 2,800 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Early detection offers a five-year survival rate of 99 percent; more than four million survivors currently live in the country. For further information about breast cancer resources and education, individuals can visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s website.

Illinois’ Archery Deer Season began October 1. In counties without firearm seasons—including Cook, DuPage, Lake, and parts of Kane County—archery season continues through January 18. In other areas with firearm deer seasons or west of Illinois Route 47 in Kane County, archery season occurs from October 1–November 20; November 24–December 3; and December 8–January 18. Harvest limits allow one deer per archer and up to two antlered deer per year across all hunting seasons except during special Chronic Wasting Disease periods.

Hunters are reminded by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) that tree stands are a leading cause of hunting-related accidents; reviewing safe practices before hunting is recommended. Hunters should consult site-specific regulations via Hunt Illinois or refer to the state’s Digest of Hunting and Trapping Regulations for additional guidance.

Pumpkin harvest season has begun across Illinois—a state that leads national pumpkin production. According to USDA data cited by the Illinois Farm Bureau, over 485 million pounds were harvested statewide in 2024; approximately ninety to ninety-five percent of pumpkins used for processing nationwide come from Illinois farms. Morton—located within the district—is recognized as “the Pumpkin Capital of the World,” where over eighty-five percent of canned pumpkin globally is processed.

Residents are encouraged to visit local pumpkin patches this fall season or check Enjoy Illinois’ guide for locations nearby.

Turner was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 44th Senate District in 2021 after Bill Brady vacated his seat.