Tourist Transformation Continues at Former Mental Hospital
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: October 8, 2012
BARTONVILLE--A former state hospital is one step closer to becoming a tourist destination.
The village recently spent more than $300,000 in tax increment financing dollars to rid the building of asbestos.
Work wrapped up earlier this month.
A developer plans to turn the century old facility into a bed and breakfast and place for paranormal tours.
Rumor has it the spot has been haunted for years.
But some people have mixed feelings about the project.
"The asbestos, just get it out of there. Take it down," said Ralph Mulvaney. "Why are we doing all this? Trying to preserve the building? I'm done!"
"It's kind of creepy," said Wes Lovin. "I've been by it a few times myself. Never in it. I'd probably check it out though."
The village is the first lean holder on the project.
It says the developer is currently looking for investors.
The village recently spent more than $300,000 in tax increment financing dollars to rid the building of asbestos.
Work wrapped up earlier this month.
A developer plans to turn the century old facility into a bed and breakfast and place for paranormal tours.
Rumor has it the spot has been haunted for years.
But some people have mixed feelings about the project.
"The asbestos, just get it out of there. Take it down," said Ralph Mulvaney. "Why are we doing all this? Trying to preserve the building? I'm done!"
"It's kind of creepy," said Wes Lovin. "I've been by it a few times myself. Never in it. I'd probably check it out though."
The village is the first lean holder on the project.
It says the developer is currently looking for investors.
