About SWIDA

Operating as a special-purpose, municipal corporation and local government unit, the Southwestern Illinois Development Authority (SWIDA) was created by the Illinois state legislature in 1987 to promote, encourage and facilitate economic development in the Southwestern Illinois counties of Bond, Clinton, Madison and St. Clair.

Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, SWIDA’s work to jumpstart investments in the four-county region has transformed the landscape, helped to create and retain jobs and fueled economic growth in the Metro East. SWIDA receives no tax dollars, but operates solely on the revenue it earns for the services it provides.

The organization achieves results through a variety of channels including the sale of taxable and tax-exempt bonds; alternative financing services such as loans for land acquisition, gap financing and micro loans; real estate development services and technical development assistance. The agency has also supported a range of projects that have contributed to the revitalization of East St. Louis.

SWIDA Staff

Michael J. Lundy, Executive Director – READ FULL BIO
Teri Rumsey, Finance Director
Destini Lednicky, Housing Director