Project Saving Santa! This unique project was a first for PJ Hoerr. The restoration of a 14 ft smiling Santa statue that was a staple for downtown Bloomington during the holiday season, and we were so proud to be a part of the team that brought him back to life! Sitting for over 50 years in storage, Norris Porter of the McLean County Museum of History, gathered a team of laborers, artists, and business owners to find Santa a new home for the holidays in the heart of Bloomington. The owner of the Iconic Livingston Santa donated the statue to the Museum of History, along with a considerable amount of money to get the project off the ground. But, that was just the start. Over the span of a year, a team of local businesses contributed their time and expertise to the Santa restoration project. Jason Brewer, a Senior Project Manager at PJ Hoerr, worked with local unions to plan and complete the foundation setting. Larry Belmar, PJ Hoerr Superintendent, worked hand in hand with Jason on the layout of the concrete pad and assisted the crew that set Santa in place. Alongside the foundations, a local artist, Andrew Jumonville, restored the structure to its fullest potential. That’s just to name a few of the people who donated their time to the project. Now, you can find him in the Museum’s square with a clear view of his original post. For decades, he stood right above the entrance of Livingston’s retailer in downtown Bloomington, and he’s back to serve the public a 14ft, 1000lb dose of holiday cheer. Stop by if you’re in town to see the cheery piece of holiday history, and trust us, his jolly spirit will rub off on you!
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