Remodel progressing for new Colfax City Hall

Progress is continuing at the new Colfax City Hall and police offices at 20 W. Howard St. Photos were shared by Colfax Main Street of the $1.453 million remodel project to house the city’s offices.

“The original vaulted roof trusses have been cleaned and restored and the ceiling has been painted a nice, bright white,” Colfax Main Street said on its post. “While the outside of the building will be restored to its circa 1914-1920s appearance, the interior will have an modern industrial look utilizing the building’s original framework and materials.”

The building, which has seen many uses in its history, started as a Ford dealership before transitioning to a 500 seat movie theater in the 1930s and later the Triangle Lanes Bowling Alley from the 1950s to 2000s.

According to Colfax Main Street, the designer are hoping to use some of the original bowling alley flooring, which had been in disrepair but was saved, that was donated by councilman Brad Magg for some of the interior design elements.

The project was approved by the council in September was a early to mid-April completion date projected. It will house city offices including the city clerk, city administrator and the mayor along with the Colfax Police Department.

In a rendering shared of the building’s layout, the public will enter into a vestibule greeting area adjacent to the reception desk and the council’s chambers. Also in the front portion of the building is a work room, kitchenette and public restrooms.

Beyond the front area lies the Colfax Main Street office and the offices for the city clerk, city administrator and the mayor. Storage for documents is situated next to the Main Street Office and flex room along with two locker rooms with showers.

The Colfax Police Department will reside in the back of the building and consist of the police chief’s office, officer’s group office, a training room, evidence room, interview room, record storage and storage rooms. This area will be placed behind locked doors and not readily available to the public.

Christner Contracting of Ottumwa was approved for the project.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com