IMPROVED HANDICAPPED ACCESS TO CALHOUN COURTHOUSE - Leaking Roof Problem Will Be Corrected

(02/19/2013)
Two long-time projects of the Calhoun Commission are moving forward.

An old problem with handicap access to the four-level courthouse is being helped with the installation of a chairlift, a project that was undertaken by the commission about three years ago.

For a dozen years, the commission applied for grants to install an elevator in the courthouse, to no avail.

An expensive replacement of the courthouse roof appears to be nearing when warm weather comes, a project that is being funded by Courthouse Facilities Grants with some local funds.

The project will be the first real upgrade since the building was opened about 70 years ago. Since then the roof has been layered and patched, but has reached a point that leaking cannot be controlled.

The courthouse, in more recent years, has had the original windows replaced, which greatly improved the energy efficiency of the building.

Additionally, the heating system has been upgraded, and more recently air conditioning was added to the structure.

Outside lighting was a significant improvement in recent years.