“These buildings in the middle of Jacksonville’s downtown business district were simply abandoned by the state when it closed the Developmental Center in 2012. They have been a frequent target for break-ins and fires; the most recent was just last month,” Rep. Moore said. “The abandoned facilities not only pose a safety issue for the community but also take up valuable space where new development could thrive.”
Rep. Moore’s House Bill 1402 would appropriate $67.6 million from the Build Illinois Bond Fund to the Capital Development Board for the demolition of the buildings on the site and remediation of the property.
“There’s no question that this is the responsibility of the state,” Rep. Moore said. “I’m ready to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle, the Speaker, and the Governor to get this appropriations legislation across the finish line this spring.”