State Representative Wayne Rosenthal (IL) | Representative Wayne A Rosenthal (R) 108th District
State Representative Wayne Rosenthal (IL) | Representative Wayne A Rosenthal (R) 108th District
The New Salem State Historic Site in Springfield is set to receive $8 million for significant repairs. This funding follows efforts by Representative Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville), State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), and the Lincoln League volunteer organization to highlight the site's condition.
Representative Rosenthal expressed gratitude towards the Department of Natural Resources and the Capital Development Board, stating, "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."
Senator McClure added his satisfaction with securing funds for repairs, emphasizing its importance in preserving a key historical site related to President Lincoln. "This is an important step toward restoring what is one of the most important Lincoln sites in the country," he said.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Capital Development Board announced on March 19th that they would allocate $8 million for repairs at New Salem. The funds will address issues such as collapsed roofs, structural problems, and a failing pedestrian walkway across up to 23 log buildings and an outdoor theater.
Gina Gillmore-Wolter, President of the New Salem Lincoln League, acknowledged this announcement as critical support for preserving Lincoln's legacy. She thanked Governor Pritzker's Administration alongside IDNR, CDB, and legislative champions like Sen. McClure and Rep. Rosenthal for their commitment. She emphasized collaboration with these parties to ensure timely release of funds for urgent repairs.
Additionally, legislation aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability is being pursued by McClure and Rosenthal. Senate Bill 1417 proposes creating a New Salem Preservation Commission with 13 members focused on repair plans; Senate Bill 1496 seeks additional improvement funding; while Senate Bill 1861 aims to exempt necessary purchases from state procurement codes to expedite repair processes.
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