Keaton PetersIllinois is working to preserve historic sites and improve state parks by renovating key landmarks. The state’s Capital Development Board (CDB) has announced over $60 million in funding for essential infrastructure projects at five state parks and historic sites. The investment, part of the state’s Rebuild Illinois capital plan, will address long-delayed maintenance needs ranging from trail improvements to wastewater system upgrades.
The funding comes through the Rebuild Illinois program and will be managed by the Capital Development Board in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Projects span multiple counties and include both environmental conservation efforts and historic preservation work. The CDB will oversee all renovations to ensure they meet environmental and historic preservation standards.
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With maintenance backlogs piling up at parks and historic sites nationwide, this investment marks a significant effort to preserve Illinois’ natural and cultural heritage while improving public access to these spaces. The projects also align with broader state goals to drive economic development in rural communities while pursuing a dual goal of protecting environmental resources.
The largest single investment will go to Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County, which will receive $33.8 million for two separate projects. The funding will support trail upgrades and facility replacements, along with the construction of a new wastewater system designed to protect the park’s natural resources.
In Springfield, the Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site will undergo $7.35 million in renovations, with $6.6 million dedicated to restoring and repairing various elements of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure. The work includes improvements to water management systems, roofing and security upgrades, plus an additional $750,000 for renovations to the site’s historic white cottage.
At Lake Murphysboro State Park in Jackson County, $4.1 million will fund upgrades to sewage treatment and campground electrical systems, bringing the facilities into compliance with current environmental and accessibility standards.
The Volo Bog Natural Area in Lake County will receive $5.1 million to completely replace its boardwalk and floating trail system, while also upgrading the observation platform at the “Eye of the Bog” scenic overlook to improve accessibility throughout the site.
Photo courtesy Yinan Chen, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons
