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Jackson County, the City of Independence and the State of Missouri provided $2 million to complete Phase 1. That effort included a new roof, replacing deteriorating windows and repairing the cupola and clock.
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These computer-generated images demonstrate the goal of Phase II to restore the courthouse grounds to their 1933 appearance. |
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The goal of Phase II was to return the courthouse grounds to their 1933 appearance and address major drainage issues eroding the building's foundation. This phase also added 70 parking spaces around the facility.
Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders declared a public emergency to free up funding for Phase II. The Phase II renovations were completed in the summer of 2009 -- on time and for less than originally budgeted. CLICK HERE for more information about the Phase II renovations.
While Phases I and II focused on the exterior, Phase III will concentrate on the courthouse's interior. Renovating the inside of the courthouse is essential to making the facility available for continued use, transforming it into a working landmark.
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| Signs of water damage are obvious throughout the basement of the historic courthouse. |
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Through the years, various entities have occupied the courthouse. Currently, however, it houses only the Jackson County Historical Society office and archives, as well as a small gift shop operated by a non-profit senior citizens organization. Much of the building is vacant or used for storage. No restrooms are open to the public, nor are any compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The courthouse has no working elevator, and there is no central air conditioning in the building.
Phase III, at estimated cost of $8 million, would also restore President Truman's office and courtroom, address foundation problems and bring the space up to commercial grade under current building codes -- all while preserving the courthouse's historical integrity.
Plans for the courthouse upon completion of the renovation would likely include a centralized Truman Visitors Center highlighting President Truman and Jackson County history, the Jackson County Historical Society and possibly a gallery featuring major pieces of local and regional art.
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