Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer says he was surprised to see on social media over the weekend that Bresee Tower has a new owner. Historic Restorations, Inc, a 501c3 non-profit based in Alabama, says it has taken over ownership of the building in Danville’s downtown area.
The Mayor says the City had asked the former owner to let the city know if the building was sold. But he says the City got word of the sale like everybody else – on Facebook.
‘’As with most historic restoration, this project will take time,’’ said the post on social media, ‘’probably a lot of time, but our sole purpose for taking on this project is to save the building from demolition.’’ The new owners say they plan to be in Danville in a couple of weeks to tour the property and meet with local officials. They also asked local residents for ideas on what they think should be done with the building.
‘’We will need the help from the entire community to make this happen,’’ said the new building owner. ‘’We are doing this for your community, and we want to make you proud.’’
Many area residents say they welcome the news and hope the new venture will be successful. The building still has terra cotta falling off part of its outer walls, according to Mayor Eisenhauer. And he adds a couple of floors need immediate attention. But the Mayor adds the building is structurally sound and is in an ideal site for redevelopment.
The Vermilion County Board earlier voted to accept the former U.S. District Court building in downtown Danville. It plans to move offices out of the Vermilion County Courthouse Annex – which wraps around Bresee Tower – and relocate them at the former federal court building. The building where the county offices are relocating for many years was Danville’s main post office. The county offices are expected to be in their new location by next summer.
