Governor Dedicates New DNR Building

SPRINGFIELD- Gov. George H. Ryan dedicated the new headquarters building for the Department of Natural Resources today, a 200,000 square foot facility on the northwest corner of the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

"This building has combined staff from several locations around Springfield into one central headquarters, providing better service to the public, creating greater efficiencies and saving the taxpayers of Illinois millions of dollars over the next several decades," the Governor said.

The new facility houses about 650 employees who previously worked at seven locations throughout Springfield.

Planning and construction of the building cost $31.75 million. Design of the facility began in 1998. Construction was substantially completed this summer. It is designed to be energy efficient and includes high density files to save space.

The building includes several conference rooms and a training facility. A food service facility is planned but has not yet been completed. A drive-up permit sales area will provide added service and convenience to the public.

Situated within the fairground's Conservation World, the facility provides opportunities for natural resource education programs throughout the year and for large constituent gatherings, such as Conservation Congress meetings.

"We are excited about the tremendous potential this new facility provides us - to work more closely together and to provide greater access and service to the public," said IDNR Director Brent Manning.