Kane County Reporter

Shodeen Construction Co., a local business, has applied to the City of Geneva’s building division for a permit to demolish the derelict Mill Race Inn property at 4 E. State Street downtown.

 

The abandoned historical building dates back to circa 1846, when it was constructed as a limestone paper manufacturing plant. Renovated in 1933, it became the site of the Mill Race Inn restaurant, owned by Ann Forsyth until 2011.

 

Shodeen’s proposal involves selective demolition intended to preserve the existing concrete foundation walls and nearby gazebo structure along the eastern bank of the Fox River. Along with asbestos abatement, the planned work will require disconnection of utilities and some tree removal in the immediate vicinity of the building.

Earlier this year, Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns said Shodeen has done other quality developments in Geneva.

 

"I welcome their creativity and their vision," Burns said in May. "When they have their ducks in a row and get ready to raze the property, we will issue whatever permits necessary to clear the land and ready it for redevelopment."

 

Demolition work is likely to begin following review and approval by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA) and the City of Geneva.

 

Following the partial demolition, the site will be landscaped and fenced for security as redevelopment plans unfold. Officials said on the city’s website that designation as a local or national historic landmark is a distinct possibility as experts study potential rehabilitation outcomes.