Richmond bridge added to endangered list

CHICAGO – Landmarks Illinois announced its 2023 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois on May 4, calling attention to nine culturally and architecturally significant sites across the state that face growing threats of disinvestment and demolition.

“Our 2023 Most Endangered sites show willful disregard for the proven environmental, social and economic benefits of reusing historic buildings,” said Bonnie McDonald, president & CEO of Landmarks Illinois. “At a time when Americans are calling for action to solve society’s pressing challenges, like climate change, inequality and housing affordability, there should be no passes for shortsightedness or neglect. We will continue to work with local residents and elected officials, as well as building and preservation professionals, to develop solutions for the reuse of these threatened places.”

The George Street bridge in Richmond was built in mid-1800s by the Chicago & North Western Railroad, the city-owned wooden bridge landmark is the last of two wooden bridges constructed in Richmond’s early settlement years (The village board voted to remove the failing Broadway Street bridge in 1986). However, a lack of maintenance and no plan for its preservation mean that the bridge faces possible demolition by neglect.

The 2023 Most Endangered sites are located in the following counties: Alexander, Coles, Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and St. Clair. Visit  www.Landmarks.org to learn more about each site.

To view all of Landmarks Illinois' 2023 endangered sites, click HERE.