Depot undergoing $130,000 renovation

Thomson's depot is getting a facelift.

One of the city's most recognizable historical buildings is undergoing renovations to upgrade several of its facilities. Phase one of the $130,000 renovation project was completed last week, which included many safety and logistical changes.

"We're basically going back into the depot, installing a fire alarm, renovating the restrooms so that they'll be handicapped, and renovating kitchen appliances," City Administrator Bob Flanders said.

New wallpaper and carpets also are part of the project, as well as a complete overhaul of the depot's freight room and meeting room. Flanders said that the many additional minor changes will be made at the request of the city's fire marshal.

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Phase two will consist of a completely new look for the offices of the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce, which is at one end of the building.

"We're spending a bunch of money in the front for the chamber," said Flanders. "We're painting some offices and repairing some things that have deteriorated over time."

Chamber Director Carolyn Gilbert thinks the improvements will have tremendous benefits.

"We're renovating our offices to make it more friendly and welcoming," she said. "It's going to be really nice. It's been 20 years."

Funds for the project were acquired with a grant and were supplemented by profits made from the chamber's annual Dinner by the Tracks fund-raiser. Gilbert added that the chamber would welcome any donations from local residents.