Building to become Rend Lake tourism center

State Senator Dale Fowler is excited to announce the final legislative obstacle in a process to sell the former Artisan Center at Rend Lake State Park to the Rend Lake Conservancy District has been approved following the signature of Governor Pritzker to House Bill 3823, Senate Floor Amendment 1.

“The Conservancy District has expressed great interest in bringing a tourism center to this location, and today is a great day as we were able to secure the deal and finalize this legislation in a bipartisan manner,” said Senator Fowler. “I want to thank my colleagues on both side of the aisle for seeing the importance of this bill so we can continue to bring new life to southern Illinois.”

The bill, which becomes effective immediately, allows the Illinois Department of Natural Resources the ability to sell the former art center for $531,667 to the Rend Lake Conservancy District through a quitclaim deed.

“Tourism is a key driver for both economic and workplace development in my district,” said Sen. Fowler. “This opportunity goes hand in hand with the recent announcement of the $17.5 million in renovations set to take place at the now vacant Rend Lake Resort in 2023. It is truly an exciting time—almost like Christmas for southern Illinois hospitality and tourism!”

The legislation passed the Senate on November 30, 2022, and the House of Representatives on December 1, 2022.