Governor Quinn Announces $438,000 for Waterproofing Project at Howlett Building

SPRINGFIELD – Governor Pat Quinn today announced a capital investment of more than $438,000 for a waterproofing project at the Howlett Building in Springfield, part of his Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program. The project is part of Governor Quinn’s agenda to create jobs and drive Illinois’ economy forward.

“Our investment will help protect and maintain this key Secretary of State facility,” Governor Quinn said. “The project will also employ a number of construction workers, which will help the local economy.”

The project will address water drainage and infiltration concerns on the north plaza area of the Howlett Building. It will include replacing the existing pavers, waterproofing the underlying tunnel, improving storm water drainage, and repairing the stone retaining wall. Laverdiere Construction, Inc. of Macomb, the lowest of three bidders, will perform the general construction work for $295,000. Reliable Plumbing & Heating Company of Champaign was the lowest of five bidders at $143,850 for the heating and air conditioning portion of the project. The project will be overseen by the Illinois Capital Development Board.

The Michael J. Howlett Building in Springfield’s State Capitol complex houses the Illinois Secretary of State’s offices. Formerly the Centennial Building, it was erected to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Illinois’ admission to the Union as the 21st state. The cornerstone was laid in 1918, and the building was completed in 1923. Additions were added in 1928 and 1966.

The project is part of Governor Quinn’s $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which will support more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest capital construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest capital construction programs in the nation.