West Central Reporter

The New Salem State Historic Site is set to receive $8 million for major repairs. This development follows efforts by State Senator Steve McClure, Representative Wayne Rosenthal, and the Lincoln League volunteer organization to highlight the site's condition.

Senator McClure stated, “I am proud that our work secured funding to make desperately needed repairs at the site. This is an important step toward restoring what is one of the most important historic sites in the country. People come from around the world to tour the Lincoln sites in our great state and this will help us to showcase the site where President Lincoln began his career in public service.”

Representative Rosenthal expressed gratitude towards key agencies, saying, “I would like to thank the Department of Natural Resources and the Capital Development Board for prioritizing funding to make desperately needed repairs. The funding provided ensures that future generations will be able to experience the place where Abraham Lincoln lived, learned, and became one of our nation’s greatest leaders.”

On March 19th, both the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) announced their joint allocation of $8 million for repairs at New Salem. The funds will address issues such as structural problems with up to 23 log buildings and updates for an outdoor theater.

The announcement was preceded by press conferences organized by McClure, Rosenthal, and the Lincoln League. These events aimed to draw attention to structural issues like collapsed roofs and a failing elevated pedestrian walkway.

Gina Gillmore-Wolter, President of the New Salem Lincoln League said, “Today’s funding announcement of $8 million in state capital funding for Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site is greatly appreciated and sorely needed.” She thanked various stakeholders including Gov. Pritzker’s Administration for their roles in securing this investment. Gillmore-Wolter emphasized working with legislators on ensuring quick release of funds and long-term sustainability measures.

In addition to these efforts, McClure and Rosenthal are advocating legislation focused on preserving New Salem's sustainability:

- Senate Bill 1417 proposes creating a commission dedicated to planning repairs.

- Senate Bill 1496 seeks additional improvement funding.

- Senate Bill 1861 aims at exempting necessary purchases from procurement codes for faster repair processes.