The Durango Discovery Museum, in partnership with the City of Durango, has been working to rehabilitate the historic 1893 Durango Power House into a hands-on science and energy museum. Part of the first phase of stabilization and rehabilitation includes reconstructing the roof light monitors as well as repairing the roof structure and replacing the roofing material.
“Hoisting the light monitors into place is a dramatic symbol of the Power House coming back to life. Thanks to the partnership and generosity of the City of Durango and the State Historical Fund, the vision of a vibrant riverfront and exciting museum for the community is taking a big step forward. Lifting the monitors into place will be a memorable event, and I can’t wait to see it!” – Jeff Vierling, Durango Discovery Museum Project Manager.
Historically, the building had four light monitors on the roof to provide ventilation as well as letting daylight into the building. The replacement roof light monitors were constructed on the ground by Kennebec Construction and will be lifted to the rooftop by crane on December 22, 2004. Historic photographs and former openings in the roof were used to design and construct the roof light monitors to insure accuracy.
Mayor Joe Colgan stated, “We are pleased to see the Durango Discovery Museum become one step closer to reality. We look forward to seeing continued community support for this exciting project.”