Keokuk, IA – Pioneer Railcorp (Peoria) owns both Keokuk Junction Railway and the Keokuk Union Depot building. Mark Smidt with the Riverfront Implementation Committee says the city is working on a deal to purchase the former railroad depot for $1.
The building was last used as a restaurant in the late 1990's. The last time the depot was used as a depot was several decades ago.
Smidt says the Keokuk Junction Depot was prominently featured in the city's vision plan. He says the building could become a wonderful asset for Keokuk.
"It would help us anchor the riverfront," said Smidt, "(and) it would give us a place to base events along the riverfront. It might be the first of many improvements down along the riverfront."
Smidt says the city is also working on a long term lease (99 years) for the land beneath the depot and several nearby properties. He says that would allow for a trail connecting the building with Riverview Park.
Smidt says Keokuk hopes to finalize the acquisition of the depot within the next two months. He says the city must work quickly because the building is in poor condition.
Some of the worst parts are the roof and the upper level. In fact, members of the Keokuk City Council and several reporters had to sign a waiver to enter the structure.
Smidt says grants are being researched to help pay for renovations.