Study on old post office renovation nearly complete

The City of Gaffney soon should have a better idea just how much it will cost to convert the old post office building into an arts center.

City Administrator James Taylor said the architectural firm of Craig, Gaulden and Davis should complete its preliminary study on the 13,000- square-foot historic structure within 60 days. The study includes a cost estimate, space needs analysis, building assessment, code review and a conceptual site and floor plan.

The study will cost the city $5,000.

The arts center will also contain a visitors center and a community meeting room.

City officials used a $400,000 appropriation in the state budget to purchase the $335,000 building. The remaining portion of the state appropriation and the city's hospitality tax will cover the renovation costs.

It will take as long as 20 months to complete the project.

The building was owned by Ralph Dickson of Gastonia, N.C.