Renovation Work Begins at 319 College Street

Long anticipated work has finally begun at the Jasper County Historical Foundation building at 319 College Street, the old Monticello School.

Passersby may have noticed the caution tape that has been put up, signifying that work is in process. Through the efforts of former Rep. Jim Cole, and continuing with current Rep. Susan Holmes, the foundation has been fortunate to have the use of skilled inmate labor to assist in the first phase of this project.
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Residents need to realize that all of the inmate labor comes from the trustee unit of the prison system, and pose no threat of any kind to the well being of the community. It is a great additional asset to have these workers at no cost to the foundation. While work is in process at the site, citizens are advised that there is construction on going, and that the boundary tape as installed is to be respected. When completed, the foundation building will house a transportation museum funded in part by a Department of Transportation grant (thanks to Jim Cole), meeting facilities, a performing arts center, and other venues plus the Jasper County Historical Foundation offices.

In addition there will be space available to lease on the third floor, accessed by new elevators and, finally fully modern restrooms on each floor as they are completed.