ROCKFORD, Ill. (AP) — City officials have seen little interest from developers in the historic Rockford Watch Co. factory.
The Rockford Register-Star reports the city bought the 19th-Century building for $580,000 in 2014 and demolished parts of it to make room for parking near the nearly complete UW Health Sports Facility.
Redevelopment plans were due Jan. 12, but the city is working with just one proposal. Significant obstacles are in the way, including contaminated soil, asbestos and a leaky roof.
The council is ready to consider approving a $218,000 contract, financed in part with federal environmental funds, to remove contaminated soil. The city is seeking additional federal money to help with asbestos abatement.
