Historic structures at the Missouri State Penitentiary Redevelopment Site have a new lease on life, thanks to a project concluded this week.
And, in connection with the renovation, a city agency has received an extended invitation to host tours of the former prison.
Although the MSP site is owned by the state and its redevelopment is being overseen by a commission, tours of the historic structures traditionally have been conducted by the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The tours experienced a steady increase in numbers and popularity until September, when tours were cancelled after an inspection revealed mold within deteriorating prison facilities.
State and city officials agreed to split the estimated $2 million cost to repair the structures and eliminate the mold.
We endorsed the cost-sharing proposal as beneficial for both the state and city.
The mold indicated moisture from leaking roofs and damaged windows was causing deterioration, which eventually would mandate demolition. We considered that option unacceptable; historic buildings, once destroyed, cannot be replaced.
From the city's standpoint, the tours had become profitable, beyond the economic benefits for the community created by increased tourism.
In addition, as part of the cost-sharing arrangement, the state offered the city agency a long-term contract to conduct the tours. The previous 11-month agreements have been replaced with a 15-year agreement, which includes options for extensions.
The work - mold remediation, roof and window replacements and removal of hazardous materials, including asbestos - has been completed under budget, at about $1.5 million.
Partial tours resumed in April and were expanded in July, but now will include areas not accessible before or during renovations.
The initiative is noteworthy, not only for what it is, but as an example of how state and local governments can work together to complete a mutually beneficial project under budget.
And examples, by definition, are meant to be followed.