Prairie State Wire

On April 7, Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) shared a story from the State Journal-Register focusing on renovations at the Illinois State Armory. He asked his constituents to share their favorite memories of the building.

"'What's going to happen to the Armory?' is a question I have often been asked. The redevelopment of this historic structure is great news for Downtown Springfield and our entire community. I'm proud to have played a role in making it happen. What are your favorite memories of the Armory?" Butler posted on Facebook.

The Illinois State Armory revitalization project secured funding from the Illinois Capital Development Board, which selected architectural design firm Tilton, Kelly + Bell to bring the building back to life. The selection and announcement of funding for design was first given in April 2021.

In 2019, NPR Illinois reported that the building had been selected for a $120-plus million renovation. While the building was originally intended for military purposes, it was also home to state offices, and an auditorium where the National Guard trained, according to NPR Illinois.

The State Journal-Review says that the intention is to use the building for state offices once the renovation is complete. It currently has leaks throughout the building, mold, mildew, and asbestos issues that must be dealt with before it is safe for occupation and use. "What's exciting," said Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder, "is that you have 600 office jobs in the city of Springfield and that's a commitment from the state of Illinois and thanks to Gov. Pritzker and Sen. (Doris) Turner (D-Decatur) for making that happen and really imprinting the importance of reinvesting in downtown."