The village of Huntley was recently awarded the Project of the Year award for historical restoration/preservation (under $5 million category) from the American Public Works Association’s Fox Valley Branch.

The recognition was for the work done on the historic Hackett House, located at the southeast corner of Route 47 and Main Street. The village purchased the 2,600-square-foot house in 2013 as part of its downtown revitalization project.

“The Village Board felt strongly about improving the aesthetics of the highly visible Main Street and Route 47 intersection,” said Lisa Armour, assistant village manager. “Because of this particular structure’s history, the Board decided it was best to preserve it, and ultimately use it for the benefit of the community.”

The Hackett House is now occupied by the McHenry County Convention and Visitors Bureau and benefits many communities throughout the region.

The village has invested nearly $5 million on the downtown revitalization project, including streetscape improvements, renovation of the Town Square, and the facade improvement program. Many of the downtown businesses have already participated in the facade improvement program, with more to follow.

SOURCE: village of Huntley