Demolition Begins on Building 29 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds

Demolition Marks Continued Improvements to Springfield Fairgrounds

Springfield - The Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) will oversee the demolition of Building 29 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds as part of the State's ongoing revitalization efforts at the property. Managed on behalf of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the $2.1 million project will remove the long-abandoned and condemned building.

"I'm proud to support the transformation of our beloved Illinois State Fairgrounds, and the demolition of Building 29 represents a crucial step in that process," said Governor JB Pritzker. "When I cut the ribbon at last year's State Fair, I was pleased to announce the demolition's official approval - and now, we're taking action to turn an eyesore into opportunity."

The scope of work includes hazardous material abatement followed by the demolition of Building 29. The project will also include the disposal of all demolition materials offsite, utility capping, site backfilling and regrading, and final site restoration. Provisions will also be made for careful removal and appropriate storage of artwork currently located within the building.

Originally serving as a dormitory for 4-H students, Building 29 housed the Department of Corrections work camp programs, served as a training site for Conservation Police, and stored records for state agencies. The space was deemed uninhabitable in 2012 when utilities were permanently disconnected.

"Bringing down Building 29 is an example of addition through subtraction, improving the grounds by removing an eyesore," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "We are grateful to Governor Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly for their support and investment in the revitalization efforts and look forward to transforming the space to better serve fairgoers, exhibitors, and Illinois' agricultural community for years to come."

CDB is managing a multi-year capital improvement plan focused on preserving historic structures, modernizing facilities, and improving roadways and pedestrian sidewalks for the thousands of visitors who attend events at the fairgrounds each year. Recent projects have included renovations to the Coliseum, Multi-Purpose Arena, livestock buildings, Fire Museum, and other infrastructure throughout the 366-acre site.

"Building 29 has been vacant for years, and its removal is an important step in our ongoing work at the Illinois State Fairgrounds," said CDB Executive Director, TJ Edwards. "Demolition projects are a critical part of capital planning, allowing the State to address aging and deteriorating infrastructure and prepare sites for future use."

Once demolition is complete, the site will be leveled to finish grade. Long-term plans for the space are in development.