Illinois National Guard Readiness Center and Army Aviation Support Facility

The Illinois National Guard and Army Aviation Support Facility brings together two unique service branches, building community and belonging for the service-people within through their shared mission to protect and serve the American people. Emulating the motor of the Blackhawk helicopters housed inside, three wings with distinct purposes extend towards a central hub providing space for the preparation and launch of missions into communities such as natural disaster relief, counter drug efforts, reconstruction aid, and vital health services such as COVID-19 vaccination. In the two wings dedicated to the armory and AASF functions, large, open office spaces with moving walls and partitions allow the National Guard to easily adapt to mission requirements and sensitivity. The large hangar wing provides dedicated space for ground equipment maintenance, a weapons simulator, flight simulators, vaults, fuel distribution, cold-storage hangars, and a medical clinic. The central hub features the lobby, education areas, break room, assembly hall, and flexible classrooms where service people can collaborate, plan, and prepare. Mirroring the National Guard’s commitment to serve and care for the American People, the LEED Silver design demonstrates the building’s dedication to the well-being of the service-people and the environment. Ample daylighting, radiant floor heating, unique finishes, and the camouflage façade's panels improve energy and cost efficiency as well as well-being, allowing the National Guard to focus on protecting and serving the community.