Visitors to Charleston's Capitol Market will see some major renovation work get underway over the next several months.
The former train depot received $600,000 from the city's American Rescue Plan funds to add improvements that it otherwise couldn't accomplish.
Executive Director Evan Osborn said he is thrilled to start spending the money to tackle four main projects: expanding broadband internet, updating sewer lines and restroom facilities and some cosmetic enhancements to the building.
"We want to make some improvements here to the outdoor market, including new skylights, retractable shade cloth," Osborn said. "And then on the front, the most noticeable thing will probably be some exterior facade enhancements along our Smith Street side of the building."
Osborn said the market will remain open as the projects get going, with broadband internet first on the to-do list. Osborn said he hopes the improvements attract more visitors in the coming months.
"We are home to the Charleston Visitor's Center, so we get a lot of people from out of town," Osborn said. "This is their first impression of Charleston. We really want to set the tone for what their visit is going to be like here."
Osborn said he doesn't expect there to be any money left over when it's all said and done.
"We want to be very diligent and by the book in how we go about spending this money. We want to make sure we're getting the best price possible for our projects, being good stewards of the public funds, and really doing it in a transparent and open manor," Osborn said.
The first project is expected to get started in August.