The rehabilitation of the 131-year-old historic city hall in Springfield is officially underway. The City of Springfield held a ceremonial groundbreaking for the project Tuesday.
Interim city manager Collin Quigley said one of the goals is to create spaces for modern-day use while preserving the building’s historical elements.
The project will provide a new vertical core, which will house an internal fire stair, an elevator large enough for a gurney and restrooms on each floor, according to the city. It will also include code compliant mechanical and electrical systems, modern office space for City departments, improvements to City Council Chambers and supporting spaces, window and roof replacement improved accessibility. The rehab also includes the abatement of hazardous materials such as lead and asbestos.
A second main entrance will be created on the east side of the building. The fire escape will be removed, and the stone will be cleaned.
The designs for the lobby showcase the building’s historic elements, according to the City, including tile floors, portions of which were uncovered beneath layers of floors put in over the years, and original columns.
The approximately $23.24 million project is expected to be completed in early 2026. It’s being funded through the City’s Level Property Tax, local American Rescue Plan Act funding and General Fund Carryover Funds.
