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The beginning of the end: Smokestack comes down as first part of Pillsbury demolition begins

The beginning of the end:  Smokestack comes down as first part of Pillsbury demolition begins

A crowd gathers to watch the wrecking ball at the old Pillsbury factory. Photo: Saga Communications/Heather Huttes-Bright


Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The long-anticipated demolition of the former Pillsbury factory site kicked off today. Crews and on lookers arrived early to start dismantling the smokestack at the iconic facility.

The Pillsbury factory, once a bustling center of food production, played a crucial role in the city’s industrial history. For many residents, the site holds fond memories, Springfield resident George Neece said, “he remembers going to buy bread at the facility and that was before they sliced it for you.”

Many have looked forward to the prospect of new developments that will revitalize the neighborhood it is one of the most impoverished in the city.

According to Chris Richmond, president of Moving Pillsbury Forward, “today is bittersweet, but a long time coming.”  the demolition process is expected to take several months, with heavy machinery being used to bring down the smokestack.

There was a special visitor for Thursday's beginning of the demolition of the Pillsbury plant.
There was a special visitor for Thursday’s beginning of the demolition of the Pillsbury plant.

 

This was one of several seating areas for people to watch the Pillsbury plant demolitions.
This was one of several seating areas for people to watch the Pillsbury plant demolitions.

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