Illinois governor’s mansion renovation gets $1 million in donations

SPRINGFIELD — The organization leading efforts to renovate the Illinois governor’s mansion says it received $1 million in donations last year.

The mansion has fallen into disrepair in recent years with a flooded basement, leaky roof and peeling paint. The Illinois Executive Mansion Association said Friday that it also received $280,000 in free services last year and completed the first phase of work on the mansion roof.

The association estimates renovating the 160-year-old home will cost between $8 million and $12 million and take two years. It’s the third-oldest state governor’s residence in the United States.

The second phase of work includes exterior and interior renovations, private residence modernization and updates to landscaping, grounds and security. The association in July chose Springfield contractor Henson Robinson Company to do roofing work.