Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – You might see one of two signs around a number of buildings in downtown Springfield these days: “For Sale,” or “Sold.”

That’s according to Illinois Times Executive Editor Michelle Ownbey, on the WTAX Morning Newswatch.

“There are a number of very significant properties downtown,” sad Ownbey.  “We’ve touched on some of the Conn Hospitality Group properties:  Vinegar Hill Mall, and the mansion right next door, are both going up for auction in a couple of weeks.  You’ve got the old Norb Andy’s going up on the market.  You’ve got the former AFSCME building.  And there’s also a couple that have changed hands recently, and are in the process of transitioning into new owners and new uses.”

Ownbey says some of the property owners may want to hear what ideas you have for the buildings.

“If anybody has a great idea and wants to put their money where their mouth is, as far as getting some new projects going, there’s no shortage of opportunities downtown right now,” said Ownbey.

The current issue of the Illinois Times (linked above), highlights what is going on with some of the properties.