Downtown News

Funding for Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA) Design Services

STATUS
Funding for IHPA Design Services was removed from the state budget last year through an amendatory veto. These IHPA staff members are an incrediably valuable asset to all communities across Illinois, delivering high quality technical assistance, on-site training and education, and personalized design services to Illinois' 69 Main Street programs. In addition they administer important state and federal tax incentive programs that generate millions of dollars of public and private investment each year for the restoration and revitalization of Illinois' historic sites and structures. The loss of these positions will greatly reduce the impact of these programs throughout the state.

The IHPA Design Services staff has been a remarkably active and effective force for preservation and reinvestment in Illinois' towns. In 2007 alone they completed over 90 site visits, generated 72 renderings to assit small business owners with their downtown properties, and presented 53 training sessions in 41 communities. The exceptional quality of their work has been recognized through numerous state and national awards, and their leadership in the development of new programs has resulted in speaking and training opportunities across the country.

LEGISLATIVE REQUEST
Illinios Main Street programs across the state have contacted their Senators and Representatives asking for their support in restoring full funding for Illinois Historic Preservation Agency Design Services staff in the 2009 state budget. The IHPA has requested $204,000 for three critical staff positions that provide a wide range of Architectural Services for the State Historic Preservation Office, as well as Design Services for the Illinois Main Street program. If funding is not restored in the 2009 budget, the three positions will be eliminated and preservation services will be significantly reduced for all Illinois towns.

Illinois is very fortunate to have access to professionals who are recognized leaders and innovators in the preservation field. The small investment of state funding in IHPA staff leverages significant and real benefits for numerous Illinois towns and property owners that rely upon their assistance.