Tagged: Macomb Courthouse Square

Macomb is on the verge of having its courthouse square declared a national historic district.

The Illinois Historic Sites Advisory Council has recommended the designation to the federal government, which almost always follows the state panel’s suggestion.

However, Mayor Mike Inman said the city won’t begin preparing signs or making plans just yet.

Inman believes it will be 60 to 90 days before the city learns of the federal government’s decision.

The long process of adding Macomb’s downtown district to the National Historic Register is about to come to an end.

The Illinois Historic Sites Advisory Council will meet February 22 in Springfield to consider the city’s application. Its recommendation will be sent to the National Park Service, which almost always follows the council’s suggestion.

It could be May before the park service makes the official announcement.

Historic Consultant Victoria Granacki, who’s been helping Macomb with its application, likes the city’s chances.

Engineering firms have until January 17 to make their case for getting involved with Macomb’s downtown revitalization project.

The city is soliciting “Request for Qualifications” from consultants. Community Development Director Ed Basch told aldermen the city prefers to hire a firm with experience in downstate Illinois.