Old State Capitol underground garage transitions to automated monthly parking

SPRINGFIELD - The underground parking garage at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site in downtown Springfield has transitioned to a fully automated system as of April 1, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced.

The transition will enable IDNR - which manages the Old State Capitol and other state historic sites - to improve security in the facility and make the garage safer in partnership with the City of Springfield.

In addition, the cost for monthly parking will be reduced to $65 from $85. Daily parking will not be an option for the foreseeable future. However, the fee reduction may encourage more downtown employees to utilize the underground garage, freeing up street parking for customers and visitors in the downtown area.

Future renovations planned for the underground parking garage include renovation of the elevator on the plaza on the south side of the Old State Capitol, construction of both a temporary and permanent accessibility ramp, and the eventual return of daily parking.