County Renovation Projects Move Forward

Improvements being made to the Judge Edd B. Keyes building, 113 W. Beauregard, and progress at Pugh Park in Christoval were discussed at Tuesday’s Commissioners Court. Both projects are set to move into their second phases.

Architects overseeing the Keyes building reported that Templeton Construction made a bid of $2.5 million for second floor renovations, escalator removal, and improvements to the façade.

The stucco that exists on the façade of the building now will be stripped off, revealing the building's original construction material.  Windows will be added to allow natural light into offices housed there. This renovation coincides well with the city’s plans for downtown restorations, creating an updated look in an older building, while at the same time preserving the original structure.

There was some discussion on where the extra funds needed to complete the project will come, and was decided more research is needed before a final decision is made.

Christoval's Pugh Park

Much of progress has been made since the unveiling of plans for Pugh Park by Commissioner Bill Ford back in September. Ford envisioned a restoration of the once well cared for park he remembered as a child, that was a safe, enjoyable place for families to gather for a swim and barbeque. Ford's vision somewhat resembled the Concho Riverwalk in downtown San Angelo.

As Ford has said, over the decades, not only has erosion taken its toll, but abuse as well. With heavy foot traffic in the park at one time from weekend partiers and others leaving behind trash, and drug paraphernalia.  Many of the trees along the riverbank suffer from soil compaction, which is another product of the park being a high traffic area.

“We are also keeping it fenced to try and restore that riverbank...to control the access because a lot of the trees are dying over there... we need to get that compacted soil aerated...and it’s not going to happen overnight because it’s had 40 years of abuse... it’s got to have some time to recover.” Ford said in a response to a concerned citizen in September.

The once-eroded riverbank is now lined with limestone, helping to keep soil in its place, and trees have been wrapped for protection. The park has been closed for the winter, aiding in its recovery. The boat ramp that was also in disrepair in that area is getting renovated and will be ready for use by summer.