Illinois State Fair Coliseum Resurrected and Renamed

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Published on August 9 2019 11:27 am
Last Updated on August 9 2019 11:27 am
Written by Matt Robinson

After being condemned in 2016, the 118-year-old Illinois State Fair Coliseum has been brought back to life. Construction crews have worked nearly around the clock in efforts to have the Coliseum finished for the 2019 Illinois State Fair. The newly renovated Springfield landmark was re-named the “Coliseum of Champions”.

A competition was held between members of Illinois 4-H, FFA, and the Junior Horseman's Council to name the newly renovated coliseum. More than 80 suggestions were received with the winning entry, “The Coliseum of Champions", being submitted by Emma Eathington of the Fairview Huskies 4-H, Elaina Kessler of the Clay City FFA, and Kyle Neisler of Country Roots 4-H Club of Montgomery County. All three were guests of honor at the grand re-opening where they received a silver platter of recognition and Mega Passes to the fair.

“Through the hard work and determination of many, a Springfield treasure has been restored to its original glory and is ready to seat 2,688 fairgoers for this year’s Il State Fair,” said Director John Sullivan, Illinois Department of Agriculture. “Many individuals, companies and organizations have worked tirelessly and cooperatively together to see this project through to completion—we are excited to know the Coliseum will be available for generations to come.”

The 60,000 Square foot, three-story structure was originally constructed in 1901 by RV Evans Construction and has undergone numerous renovations over the years—including in the 1940s, 50s, and 70s. Springfield-based R.D. Lawrence Construction Company was the general contractor on this $12.7 million project. Decayed wooden beams were replaced and the entire structure was reinforced with steel. Additional improvements include added energy efficiency with LED lighting, energy-efficient windows and improved ADA accessibility—all done while maintaining its historic architecture. Air circulation concerns were also addressed with twenty-one, eight-foot and two massive 24-foot ceiling fans in the horse show ring for optimum airflow.

“Thankfully, the record-setting rain had little negative impact on progress because much of the precipitation occurred over nighttime hours enabling us to stay on schedule,” said Aaron Gorbett, Project Manager for R.D. Lawrence Construction. “We needed every hour to make the improvements that will considerably prolong the life of the structure and guarantee enjoyment for generations to come.”

Funding was provided by the state’s Capitol Development Board in the FY19 budget.

“This project is good for the community with more than eleven labor unions participating and over 100 jobs created,” said RJ Finneran, Business Representative/Organizer for Carpenters Local 270. “We are proud to be a part of restoring Springfield history.”