PEKIN, Ill. – Repair work to the Avanti’s Sports Dome in Pekin could be occurring in the near future.
City Manager John Dossey tells 25 News that discussions have occurred on a path forward to repair work on the dome. It was damaged in June of 2021 when severe weather tore the dome’s fabric.
Those discussions include a path forward on how the repairs would be done, and if any code enforcement issues would need to be addressed.
“As of this time, no inspections have been conducted on the property; however, during a recent meeting, Avanti’s Dome representatives have been made aware of concerns from the City of potential property maintenance-related issues,” Dossey wrote.
Dossey says he is hopeful that a solution could come soon, but that discussions have only just begun.
The dome back in operation would be welcome news for Pete Patel. Patel is the general manager of the nearby Econo Lodge Inn and Suites. He says without events taking place at the dome, it’s been tough to generate business.
“We should be full, and this is only 25 to 35% occupancy compared to 100 percent, so that’s a pretty significant loss because of the dome,” Patel said.
Patel says it’s also been hard to keep up with business expenses, including interest rate on payments on the property, and property maintenance and upkeep.
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