Sangamon County has officially opened its new regional morgue facility following a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house earlier today.

Located in the renovated Sangamon South building—formerly home to the State Journal-Register—the $6 million project brings all coroner operations under one roof, including autopsies, evidence processing, and administrative work.

Coroner Jim Allmon says the new space is a major upgrade from years of working in borrowed and scattered locations.

The facility includes a refrigerated unit that can hold up to 50 individuals and a freezer for 12 more, along with top-tier equipment and space for investigators, support staff, and forensic pathologists to work together more efficiently.

Forensic Pathologist Dr. Nate Patterson says the centralized setup will improve coordination and outcomes, not only for Sangamon County, but also for neighboring jurisdictions that rely on their services.

The County used federal American Rescue Plan funds to finance most of the project and saved taxpayers more than $2 million by renovating an existing building rather than constructing a new one.

Allmon also thanked Springfield Memorial and St. John’s hospitals for their longtime support, including donated equipment to help outfit the new space.

The facility includes a dedicated area for Saving Sight and Gift of Hope, enhancing support for families who choose organ and tissue donation.

The new morgue is now fully operational and ready to serve Sangamon County and the region.