Winneshiek County Courthouse remodeling project is honored by Preservation Iowa

Posted: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 10:57 AM

A crew from Krause Konstruction of Coon Valley, Wisconsin inspects the courthouse tower and roof (decorahnews.com file photo)

The nonprofit group Preservation Iowa recognized the remodeling of the Winneshiek County Courthouse at a virtual ceremony Thursday during the annual Preserve Iowa Summit.

"The adaptive reuse of these iconic buildings is a creative and economic way to revitalize an entire neighborhood," said Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Director Chris Kramer. His agency oversees the State Historic Preservation Office.

The remodeling of the Winneshiek County Courthouse was recognized as "The Best Public Project." Winneshiek County made repairs and upgrades to the 1904 courthouse over the last year or so. Upgrades included a new roof, colored LED exterior lighting, and a new lightning-protection system to replace one that no longer worked. The project's leaders also created a comprehensive plan to help county officials maintain the building in the future.