Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A $2.1 million project is underway on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Demolition has started on “Building 29” — once the Junior Home Economics building, but has seen its fair share of uses over the years, from a 4H dormitory to a building that stored state documents.

Less than fifteen years ago, though, the Illinois Department of Agriculture says, it was declared uninhabitable and condemned.

“Bringing down Building 29 is an example of addition through subtraction, improving the grounds by removing an eyesore,” said Jerry Costello, Director, Illinois Department of Agriculture, in a news release. “We are grateful to Governor Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly for their support and investment in the revitalization efforts and look forward to transforming the space to better serve fairgoers, exhibitors, and Illinois’ agricultural community for years to come.”

Asbestos will be removed, and the ground will be levelled off for the time being once debris is removed, according to the news release.

As for the land’s future?  “Long-term plans for the space are in development,” said the news release.

It’s across from the Junior Livestock building.