Dateline: March 7, 2002

Courthouse project on track for fall finish 

By Roger Estlack, Clarendon Enterprise

Restoration of the Donley County Courthouse is still on track; and nearly all of the structural work is finished, according to Phoenix 1 project manager Stephen Dodge.

Phoenix’s schedule calls for the building to be completed in September. The company’s contract with the county calls for finishing in October.

Meeting last Friday with project architect Chris Hutson, grant administrator John Kiehl, and key contractors, Dodge reported that mechanical systems are still being installed in the courthouse basement, but most of the wood and steel framing is finished in the building. Also ice and water shielding has been installed on the roof.

Stripping of woodwork continues, but some areas are ready to begin finish work. A sample stain has been applied to a section of wainscoting in the main corridor.

The new mechanical room on the third floor should be ready to accommodate new heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning equipment this week; and refinished windows and trim should begin returning this month.

Replacing and repairing exterior metal cornices should begin within six to eight weeks, Dodge said.

Brick and mortar colors are still being matched. Curved brick for the circular tower on the southeast corner will have to be special ordered. Officials are also investigating to see if the chemical which is intended for cleaning the existing bricks is safe to use on the sandstone elements of the building.

In other project news, county fundraising efforts have collected $15,959 from persons and businesses interested in helping the project. Donations of any size are greatly needed and appreciated and can be sent to the Donley County Courthouse Preservation Fund, PO Box 825, Clarendon, TX 79226.