Illinois is set to revitalize unused state properties with a record-setting $500 million investment under Governor JB Pritzker’s seventh balanced budget. The “Surplus to Success” program will channel $300 million into preparing five major idle properties—including former correctional and developmental centers—for private development. An additional $200 million will expand business site readiness statewide, focusing on infrastructure and job creation. Officials say these efforts will turn liabilities into engines of economic growth by attracting new industries, boosting local economies, and improving property values. The plan aims to transform vacant sites into thriving assets and further strengthen Illinois’ economic competitiveness
“These investments are about more than just repurposing land—they’re about revitalizing entire communities, creating jobs, and building a future where every region of Illinois is ready to compete for economic development opportunities,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “There’s no reason the State should continue to own deteriorating properties when they can be cleaned up, developed, and put back into productive use. Surplus to Success is going to turn liabilities into launchpads for economic growth, jobs and community.”
“Surplus to Success is yet another commitment from Governor Pritzker to invest in Illinois’ future,” said Raven A. DeVaughn, Director of CMS. “These properties have long sat vacant, draining public resources, and blighting the communities where they sit. With this funding, CMS can begin the hard but necessary work of transforming the sites into assets returning these properties to the State’s tax rolls to drive growth, attract businesses, and strengthen communities across the State. We are excited to be part of the team that writes the next chapter for these properties.”
“The demand for ready-to-go industrial and commercial sites is high, and Illinois is meeting that demand head-on with new site readiness investments,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership, we’re empowering communities to compete for large-scale projects and accelerating our mission to bolster economic development statewide.”
