St. Joseph to offer Civic Center Park balusters to the public
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Local residents will get the chance to make a new home for balusters that were recently removed from Civic Center Park.
Kim Schutte, St. Joseph historic preservation planner, with the support of the St. Joseph Landmark Commission, will be coordinating interest from those wishing to have one of the balusters reclaimed as part of a renovation at Civic Center Park.
St. Joseph residents who are current on their taxes can contact Schutte at kschutte@stjosephmo.gov or 816-271-5349 by May 31 to be placed on a list to receive balusters.
Those receiving balusters will be announced at the Landmark Commission meeting on June 3.
The deteriorating and damaged balustrade was removed from the west side of Civic Center Park as part of a $494,000 ARPA-funded project to renovate the exterior of City Hall ahead of its centennial in 2027. The project will see construction of a new concrete stairwell complemented by natural stone veneer posts, caps, and wall panels.
The cost of a complete balustrade replacement was estimated to be $2.5 million and was one of several options considered by City Council. The structure was damaged multiple times over the years due to car accidents, while the stairwell also had significant damage due to its age.
In addition to renovating the Pony Express Monument and planning widespread sidewalk repairs to Civic Center Park, the balustrade project is one of several renovations planned in preparation for City Hall's centennial celebration in 2027.Â
A separate balustrade that adorns City Hall will remain in place and is currently undergoing a deep cleaning and repair process.
New lighting is also expected to be installed throughout the park and at City Hall to mimic the classic-period lighting found throughout much of Downtown, a separate project. Civic Center Park's fountain is also in line for significant repairs.
