Richard & Trish Weiss, Owner - Peoria Asylum - The Bowen Building

In our efforts to save this historic structure we've run into a few obstacles such as vandalism and theft, but none of which is as frustrating as the opposition we've received from the Village of Bartonvilles' previous administration regarding the environmental issues. The Village of Bartonville has agreed to discuss a possible agreement for the use of TIF funds to abate the Bowen building. There are a few stumbling blocks associated with coming up with an agreement. They include guarantees to the Village regarding the mortgage and further development issues. As a small non-profit we are unable to make enough guarantees until we find a developer or investors. What we would like to see done with the property includes a historical restoration of the exterior of the building and a complete mixed reuse of the interior to get the property back to a tax producing property. Our current plans include lofts, commercial space, museum and a bed and breakfast style hotel. These plans are not set in stone and can be changed as needed by investor. Our main goal is to save the building by whatever means possible. Anyone with ideas and or interested developers may contact our organization: Richard Weiss plweiss@swbell.net