BizBeat: Businessman dives into a complete overhaul

When a business undertakes a big renovation, the size and scope of the project can be overwhelming. But sometimes, you just have to dive in. And that's exactly what the owner of a Jefferson City dive shop has done.

On the corner of Atchison and Jefferson streets, passersby may have noticed a large building covered with plastic and peppered with construction workers.

Scaffolding can be seen along the sides, as well as a new tan facade in the front. The building currently under construction is home to Jefferson City's own dive shop, SCUBA Adventure.

Owner Jeff Adams has owned and operated the full service PADI dive shop for 20 years. The building at 901 Jefferson St. houses the business on the lower level, while three one-bedroom apartments make up the second floor. Adams has plans in the works for the third level, hoping to create a three-bedroom apartment.

With more than a month of outdoor construction so far, Adams said nothing on the building has gone untouched. New windows and doors, as well as a new copper roof and trim and gutters give a new look, in line with the design from the 1880s when the building was first constructed.

"I've wanted to do this ever since I bought the building," the diving instructor noted. "I decided it was time to go ahead and get it done."

Adams is still researching the possibilities for a new look on the inside of his shop, as well as updates to the apartments.

"We're just coming up with a game plan," he said.

Although the SCUBA Adventure sign has been temporarily taken down, the local dive shop continues to be open Monday through Friday during construction.

"I'm just trying to help make this area look a little better," Adams said.

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