Downtown business River City Florist is getting a facelift. The longtime Jefferson City flower shop, owned by Mike Moscato, is currently under construction, but still open for business as usual.
"It's getting a complete facade restoration," Moscato said.
Three new windows above the existing storefront will provide more natural light to the inside, and a new front door will offer a more friendly touch, Moscato said. In trying to save the historic fabric of the building, Moscato is keeping the old door handle. His restoration will incorporate new industry standards, while highlighting the historic look that once was. The facade will feature black and gold because it is a timeless combination that represents both Mizzou and the River City Florist signature color combination.
"We're thrilled to be doing this," he related.
In addition to the cosmetic changes, the 212 Madison St. location is also getting an energy boost. Moscato said he's having solar panels installed on the roof, and will be replacing all his lighting with new LED lights.
Construction began just after Labor Day, and completion is expected the beginning of October. He said, like many other businesses, he is taking advantage of the city's incentive plan for restoring downtown storefronts.
"Our door is always open, we're not going to miss a beat," Moscato said.
Moscato has owned the flower shop since June 1987. He purchased it from the Bishop family, who ran their own flower shop there for many years.
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