Residents of this small, isolated community have applied for a $63,000 grant from the Utah Community Impact Board to restore their old schoolhouse.
Mayor Guy Thompson said the project is estimated to cost about $83,000 to complete the renovation of the building, which qualifies under historic preservation standards. The building would be brought up to both historical and functional standards, he said.The balance of the needed money is a substantial undertaking for a community of only 180 residents, where there are no commercial businesses or industry. But fund-raising events have been launched.
Residents have donated some $4,500 to the project, the Garkane Power Association has contributed $1,125 and about $6,000 is still available from the former State Energy Office, Thompson said. The town has also committed $8,000, mostly by in-kind labor.
Meanwhile, volunteers have worked during the past four years to keep the old building from going by the wayside. It is in disrepair because of its age.
Volunteers have worked to repair the roof, Thompson said.
Structural reinforcement is needed and a dry moat is planned to protect the building from water. It also needs electrical wiring, heating and cooling systems, insulated windows, plumbing and a bathroom to meet handicapped requirements.
Historical artifacts and antique furniture will be on display in the building after the project is completed.