The Illinois State Museum is preparing to reopen after being closed for eight months due to the state's ongoing budget troubles. Gov. Bruce Rauner announced in September that the museum was closing as a cost-saving measure during the budget impasse.
But plans for a July 2 reopening are contingent on an upcoming vote by state lawmakers on an admission charge. The museum used to be free to everyone, but will now charge adults a $5 admission fee.
An Illinois Department of Natural Resources spokesman says workers have been cleaning exhibits and reconfiguring the building's front foyer to make it more spacious. He says workers also have been updating the museum's website and promoting it on social media.
The museum lost about 30 workers when it closed.
