The former Cattermole Library in downtown Fort Madison is in line for an update.
The city council has hired Schickendanz Construction out of Fort Madison to renovate the building’s interior.
City Manager Byron Smith says the areas of focus will be plumbing and woodworking.
This project will coincide with façade improvements that are already underway.
Grant money will cover most of the interior and exterior work.
Frantz-Hobart Management Services out of Cedar Rapids, IA will cover any remaining expenses that would normally be paid by the city.
Smith says that is part of a purchase agreement between the city and the development firm.
It also includes a $50,000 payment Fort Madison for the building.
The interior and exterior work should be completed this summer.
Smith says the former library ended up on Frantz-Hobart’s radar after a fire destroyed the former Metropolitan Hotel.
He says the firm is seeking several million dollars from the state as part of its plan for a multi-million dollar renovation of three downtown buildings for residential and commercial use.
