News – Sheridan Media
Phase One of the restoration project on the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum’s Carnegie Building has been completed, for the most part, according to Museum Director Sylvia Bruner.
Bruner recently spoke to the Johnson County Commission to give an update on the project.
According to a flier from the museum, Loken Historic Preservation of Missoula, Montana began Phase One of the restoration this fall, working on the face of the Carnegie Building removing old mortar, re-setting some large blocks of stone, replacing other blocks, replacing the bases of the columns, repointing all mortar, and sealing the exterior.
In the spring or summer of 2024 the sidewalk at the base of the front steps will be cut and a drainage system installed to pull water and ice away from the building and from the main walkway.
The cost of the overall project is estimated to be about $600,000 with the three phases estimated at $200,000 each.
Bruner told the commission that fundraising will continue for the remaining two phases.
Phases two and three will seal the north and west sides of the Carnegie Building.
Bruner also said they are looking into a 5 or 10-year plan to re-seal the building to continue to protect it and prevent this type of damage once the restoration is completed.
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Last modified: December 18, 2023