Wilder Mansion Restoration Updates
5/12/2008
Internal Demolition Continues
The Wilder Mansion restoration project continues on schedule with demolition taking place inside the building as electricians work to dismantle fixtures and systems to be updated and replaced. Structural steel beams are being installed for support as interior walls go up. Outside, work proceeds as concrete footings will be poured this week on the north and south sides of the Mansion. Preparations are being made for duct and mechanical placement.
Please continue to visit this site weekly for regular updates on the restoration project.
04/28/08
Moving Into the Next Phase
Demolition of the 1964 addition has finished, and crews completed separation of salvageable materials. Concrete from the building was ground and used as fill, while scrap metal was taken off-site to be recycled. Preparation has begun for constructing the new west entrance and rest rooms, and installation and connection of building utilities.
The Wilder Mansion planning group continues to prepare and plan for Mansion use; determining space usage, preparing a preferred vendor list, and planning for grand opening events.
Please continue to visit this site weekly for regular updates on the restoration project.
4/10/2008
Demolition is nearly complete
Demolition of the 1964 building addition is nearly complete. Work has begun to remove debris with crews sorting through the wreckage for salvageable metal and hardscape materials to be reused in the restoration project, or taken to off-site recycling facilities. Prep work has also begun for site utilities and installation of steel support beams to brace the remaining portion of the building.
Please continue to visit this site weekly for regular updates on the restoration project.
3/20/2008
Wilder Mansion Moves Forward
By the end of this year, Wilder Mansion will be a beautifully renovated facility available for rental and special event usage by the community.
Progress has been rapidly moving forward, and by the end of April, demolition of the 1964 edition to the building will be completed. Excavation for the new west façade of the building is also in progress. Utility work is in full swing to bring electrical and natural gas service to the Mansion, as well as water and sewer lines. The Park District is excited about progress for the Mansion and has a clear vision of the final product. "The District is pleased that work is underway and looks forward to restoring Wilder Mansion and returning it to the community," said Rich Grodsky, executive director. The next phase of the renovation will include construction of the new west addition that will include restrooms, an elevator, and handicap-accessibility. Renovation will continue throughout the summer and early fall and is expected to be complete by the end of November. The People for Elmhurst Parks Foundation will host the Mansion’s grand opening gala, and District staff has begun planning to make the space available for weddings, meetings, special events, as well as District programming.
