Both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly have signed off on a plan to allow the state to transfer the Lawrenceville Armory to the city. The legislation approving the transfer was sponsored by State Senator Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet).
“This building represents the proud history of the brave men and women who trained there to defend their country,” said Senator Rose. “When the city asked for the transfer of this property, I was honored to help preserve the historic nature of the structure and transition it to a new a new role that benefits the community today and into the future.”
“The City of Lawrenceville is looking forward to transitioning the Armory to a recreational facility that will benefit all of our citizens,” said Lawrenceville Mayor David Courtney. “We are grateful to Senator Rose for his leadership in making this possible.”
The Illinois National Guard Armory, dedicated in October of 1939, served as a training facility for members of the national guard. In 2022, the local guard unit was transferred to Joliet as part of a consolidation process.
The building has already undergone sever major renovations and improvements in the last 25 years, including a new roof, asbestos abatement, and HVAC upgrades. The building’s condition and history generated interest from the city in taking over the structure. Rose began representing Lawrenceville as part of the redrawn 51st Senate District. When he learned of the city’s interest in acquiring the building, he made a commitment to work to make a transfer happen.
House Bill 1920 allows the Department of Military Affairs to transfer the armory property to the City of Lawrenceville. House Bill 1920 passed both the Illinois House and Senate and now awaits the Governor’s signature.