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Courthouse elevator prompts debate

Retaining marble trim around doors more expensive than replacement

HOLLIDAYSBURG — An effort to replace Blair County’s older courthouse elevator prompted a debate among commissioners Tuesday on whether to retain marble trim around the elevator entrance doors or replace the marble trim with a bronze-finished product.

While no decision was made, commissioners agreed that the lagging project could move forward by advising Otis Elevator Co. to order a cylinder that moves a new elevator car up and down. But before Otis gets started on plans for a new elevator car, the county will have to make a decision on the trim and door finishes, county Director of Public Works Rocky Greenland said Tuesday.

A few months ago, commissioners agreed that the aged elevator must be replaced before its breaks and cannot be repaired. Installation of a new elevator is expected to take about 10 to 12 weeks and force courthouse visitors to use the newer elevator or take the stairs.

The county currently has no specific timetable for the project but in addition to allowing Otis to order a cylinder, commissioners agreed that Keller Engineers should identify an architect who could write some specifications for related electrical and HVAC work.

In preparation for the job, Albert Michaels Conservation Inc. of Altoona proposed a contract of $36,145 for restoration of marble, metal and woodwork at the elevator door entrances.

“The process of removing marble is one of precision and time,” Albert Michaels representative Chris Cook explained Tuesday to commissioners.

While much of the marble around the county elevator doors is in good condition, Cook said there is a need for some repair and replacement. One portion of the marble trim that must be addressed contains the elevator button panel that has to be lowered to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act to accommodate the handicapped.

Rather than restoring and replacing marble trim, Commissioner Ted Beam Jr. asked why the county doesn’t consider a bronze finish trim for the elevator entrances. He held up a photo of an Altoona City Hall bronze elevator door, surrounded by bronze trim.

Commissioners Chairman Bruce Erb said he liked the appearance and would be interested in learning the cost.

But a bronze trim around the elevator entrance, Commissioner Terry Tomassetti said, will be subject to dents and damage.

Beam said he remains concerned about the expense associated with retaining marble.

“We can’t afford the way it used to be done,” Beam said.

Tomassetti described marble as the county’s best long-term option because it will last for years with little attention.

“If we weren’t replacing the elevator, that marble wouldn’t have to be addressed,” Tomassetti said. “It’s the elevator that’s the problem.”

Mirror Staff Writer Kay Stephens is at 946-7456.

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