WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
The Michigan Main Street Center has awarded its third and final Design Assistance service of the 2015 fiscal year to Bruce Monroe, property owner of the “Kelsey Block,” at 39 through 43 North Main Street in downtown Three Rivers.
As part of the service, Monroe received an on-site consultation with Michigan Main Street Design Specialist Debra Johnson, as well as a written report with proposed façade drawings, paint samples, historic photos, a maintenance schedule and additional resources that will assist in making improvements to the building.
Monroe’s application was approved over the summer by the Three Rivers DDA/Main Street Design Committee, receiving highest marks on significance, implementation, visibility, appropriateness and simplicity.
Monroe said he will use the remainder of 2015 to finalize renovation plans and hopes to begin work on the building in the spring. Preliminary plans include re-pointing and masonry work, painting, awning treatments and interior remodeling.
The Kelsey Block is the oldest continuing downtown building and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Originally, the 161-year-old building was constructed as a three-story, Victorian Italianate block.
