EPA funds $1.5M for Rockford Armory cleanup for new artists’ studio

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $1.5 million grant to clean up the contaminated former Rockford Armory so that it can be repurposed as a live-work space for local artists.

The funding comes from $267 million in federal grants to clean up Brownfields, or abandoned and toxic sites.

The Armory building is currently contaminated with metals and inorganic materials, the EPA said.

“The $267 million in Brownfield grants will transform contaminated properties into valuable spaces for businesses and housing, creating new opportunities that strengthen local economies and directly benefit American families,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “EPA’s Brownfields program demonstrates how environmental stewardship and economic prosperity complement each other. Under President Trump’s leadership, EPA is Powering the Great American Comeback, ensuring our nation has the cleanest air, land, and water while supporting sustainable growth and fiscal responsibility.”

The Rockford Area Arts Council, which purchased the former Rockford Armory, at 605 N. Main Street, from the city for $1,000 last year, plans to partner with the Discovery Center Museum to have convert the building into a rehearsal, gallery, and living space for artists. 

Built-in 1934, The Armory, at 605 N. Main Street, served as the headquarters for the Illinois National Guard for 60 years, and became a music venue in the 1970s, hosting performances by acts such as KISS, ZZ Top, REO Speedwagon, Black Sabbath, Barry Manilow, Henry Mancini, Cheap Trick, Rush, Blue Oyster Cult, and Fleetwood Mac.

In 1989, the stone art deco building received upgrades to house the 404th Chemical Brigade, which stayed housed there until 1993.

In 2000, the building was placed under landmark status on the National Register of Historic Places.

The building, which has sat vacant for decades, was donated to the City in 2006.

In addition, the EPA awarded $500,000 to the City of Rockford to conduct environmental assessments of the Keith Creek Floodway Area and South Main Street Corridor, and another $650,000 for cleanup of the former Rockford Watch factory, Essex Wire site, and South Main Street Railyards.

Boone County also received $500,000 to do environmental site assessments of the Village of Garden Prairie and the southeast portion of the City of Belvidere.