"Although the building suffers from the effects of deferred maintenance, its overall condition is good," according to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "The only true threat to the property is manmade. The administration of the Cook County board of commissioners is set to execute its plan to demolish the hospital, despite the fact that its plans have failed to take into account the architectural and historic value of the building, as well as the desires of the public."
Although the cost to demolish the 91-year-old building on the near West Side is estimated at $30 million, renovating the structure will cost more, county officials argue. However, local preservationists argue converting the building to office space or affordable housing is feasible.
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