It's been called the gem of Jefferson City. A unique attraction and what distinguishes the Missouri capital from any other state capital.
But the old Missouri State Penitentiary is falling into disrepair. And while the state does not have the funds to devote to the property, the city is searching for ways to repair the historic site before it's too late and the city's unique tourist attraction is gone.
Since 2009, the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau tours of MSP have attracted more than 30,000 visitors to the site, but the CVB is expecting its first profits to come this year.
To see the CVB financial reports for MSP Tours from 2009-2012, and the existing agreement allowing CVB to conduct tours there, see www.newstribune.com/msp/