Here’s a way to go down in history

BISMARCK — The Bismarck Depot Preservation Committee is giving area residents the opportunity to permanently put their names on history. The group will be selling brick pavers at the Bismarck Freedom Fest on Friday. The pavers will be placed at the entrance of the Bismarck Depot.

A 4×8 brick will cost $55 while an 8×8 brick will cost $100.

“We have several graphics to choose from,” said Bismarck Depot Preservation Committee President Liz Bennett. “We even have a railroad graphic. Look for our booth next to the band grandstand.”

The committee is in the process of waiting for approval from the Transportation Enhancement Program. The project has already been approved for the grant, but the final plans must be approved before any money is disbursed. Drawings have been submitted for a grant worth $145,000.

“As soon as we get the grant money we will start on the exterior of the depot,” Bennett said. “The grant will be enough to repair the entire outside and will also give us a good start on the inside.

Under the grant guidelines the City of Bismarck will contribute $40,000 and the Depot Committee will contribute $10,000 from the grant it received from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The total amount for the grant with the local contribution is $195,125.

The project incorporates sidewalk renovation on East Main Street to allow handicap accessibility for pedestrian and cyclist traffic. The major portion of the project will consist of the renovation of the old depot to provide adequate facilities for train passengers, who stop in Bismarck for excursions. The building will also serve as community meeting place.

Chris Cline is a reporter for the Daily Journal. Contact him at 573-431-2010, ext. 114 or at ccline@dailyjournalonline.com.