Rockford Housing Authority Confirms Fairgrounds Demolition to Begin November 17

The Rockford Housing Authority (RHA) confirms that Nicor has finished all gas-line disconnections at the Fairgrounds property, marking the final utility step ahead of demolition.

Demolition equipment will move onto the site over the weekend, and full demolition is scheduled to begin Monday morning, November 17, 2025.

RHA is working closely with Northern Illinois Service, City of Rockford officials, and utility partners to ensure the process is carried out safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to the surrounding neighborhood.

“We appreciate the continued cooperation of the City of Rockford and our community partners as we move forward responsibly and with a shared vision for revitalization,” says Laura Snyder, Executive Director.

This step advances RHA’s efforts to restore safety and progress redevelopment at the Fairgrounds site.

Updates will continue to be shared with residents, community members, and local partners as work proceeds.

Additional Context & Recent Developments

• In September 2025, several fires occurred at the Fairgrounds property. Rockford Housing Authority
• The property was approved for demolition under HUD’s Section 18 process in 2021, recognizing the site’s obsolescence and paving the way for this next phase. Rockford Housing Authority