By CARL GREEN
Illinois Correspondent
Two major state of Illinois locations, the state Capitol in Springfield and the Cahokia Mounds Interpretive Center in St. Clair County, will go through closures for renovations and capital improvement work this year.
At the Capitol, the north wing is being renovated for $224 million, including construction of an underground parking garage, a new entryway to improve security and access, and elimination of the circle drive on the north side of the building.
The money was appropriated in Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program. After the spring session ends, the Senate will meet in the nearby Howlett Auditorium until the renovations are completed, scheduled for January 2025.
Plans for the renovations include:
- Updated stairways allowing for emergency exits directly out doors.
- Accessible restrooms and entryways.
- Modernization of mechanical, electrical, heating and ventilation systems.
- New fire alarms, sprinklers and lighting.
MORE HISTORICAL
Andrea Aggertt, director of the office of the architect of the Capitol, said taking care of the building is well worth the expense.
“We are very fortunate that we have a statehouse to be proud of,” she said. “There are other states that have statehouses that look like a high-rise that you would see in Chicago, so we want to take care of a historic building. Unfortunately, the older buildings are the ones that need the most work.”
Changes dating back as far as 1876 will be removed to restore original historic content, including removal of recessed ceilings, non-historic millwork and mezzanines in the north wing. Additions will include an underground parking garage with an adjacent conference and meeting room area.
Security improvements will include removing vehicles from close proximity to the building, creating a visitor screening area and adding electronic lockdown capabilities.
MOUNDS PROJECT
Meanwhile, the Mounds Interpretive Center was set to close March 1 to allow for $5 million in capital work expected to last 12 months or more. The entry driveway will be closed and no public access will be available to the main parking lot and surrounding areas.
The project will include replacing the roof, HVAC improvements, new lighting and replacing the fire suppression and security system.
“The improvements will update and replace some systems and components that date to the construction of the Interpretive Center in 1988,” Site Superintendent Lori Belknap said. “When the Interpretive Center re-opens, visitors will see many improvements, including restoration of our theater along with upgrades and improvements to gallery elements, enhancing visitor experiences.”
The Monks Mount parking lot and trails north of Collinsville Road will remain open, and walking tours may resume when the weather allows.
- Share this story:
-
-
-
-
-
-
-