Plymouth City Council to hold public hearing on grant for Historic Old Firehouse Renovation

The Plymouth Common Council will host a public hearing on Monday at 6:30 p.m. to discuss a proposed grant application aimed at funding critical exterior renovations for the city's Historic Old Firehouse.

The city plans to apply to the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) in early June for a $750,000 federal grant to help offset the costs of restoring the 1875 fire station. The total cost of the project—including construction, architectural, and grant administrative fees—is estimated at $897,000. To cover the remaining balance, the city will provide a local match of $147,000 using cash on hand that has already been earmarked by the City Council.

The historic structure has needed repairs for over a decade. About 10 years ago, the city considered exterior renovation but was forced to shelve the project due to financial constraints. Since then, the building has continued to deteriorate. Officials warn that portions of the brick walls and the cupola structure sitting atop the old hose tower are now at risk of collapse.

The city noted that addressing these structural concerns is necessary not only to preserve a local historic icon but also to ensure public safety and protect neighboring buildings.

The extensive scope of the proposed renovation includes the removal of exterior paint, re-tucking of brick mortar, scattered brick replacement, a full roof replacement, rebuilding the cupola structure, and replacing all exterior doors.

Spearheaded by a partnership between the City of Plymouth and the Marshall County Historical Society, the project represents a major step toward saving the downtown landmark.

During Monday evening's hearing, the public will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments on the proposed exterior renovation project and the grant application.