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Mecosta County Jail
Building:
Mecosta County Jail
Location:
220 S. Stewart St., Big Rapids, MI 49307
Constructed:
Circa 1868
Type:
Architectural Assessment
Timeline:
The historic preservation research and designation process is underway!
Our Role:
Preservation Forward serves as the historic preservation specialist for the 1868 Mecosta County Jail in Big Rapids. We are completing the National Register of Historic Places nomination, which includes comprehensive documentation of the property's historical and architectural significance. We will present this nomination to the State Historic Preservation Review Board for approval before submission to the National Park Service. Additionally, we are collaborating with the Mecosta County Jail Committee on long-term preservation strategies, including potential redevelopment, adaptive reuse, and a community-engaged RFP process to determine the optimal future use of this historic structure.
In Big Rapids, Michigan, the City has taken significant steps toward preserving the historic Old Mecosta County Jail, a unique structure dating back to circa 1868. Preservation Forward, serving as the historic preservation specialist, was contracted to conduct a comprehensive architectural assessment and is currently completing the National Register of Historic Places nomination process. This detailed documentation includes the historic narrative, period of significance, architectural history and description, statement of significance, applicable NRHP criteria, geographical data, photo-documentation, and bibliographical references. Preservation Forward will present this nomination to the State Historic Preservation Review Board at its quarterly meeting for approval before submission to the Keeper of the NRHP at the National Park Service for official listing—a crucial first step in the building's long-term preservation strategy.
While pursuing this historic designation, city officials have implemented measures to secure the building against further deterioration. Grand River Builders, a company with expertise in historic building restoration, was engaged to provide detailed cost estimates focusing on priority repairs identified in the architectural assessment, including the portico, slate roofing, gutters, turret roofs, chimney, foundation stones, brick masonry, and egress windows. The current estimated cost for these essential repairs stands at approximately $400,000. Preservation Forward is working collaboratively with the Old Jail Committee, which meets regularly at Big Rapids City Hall to oversee the preservation initiative. These meetings are open to the public, with city officials encouraging community participation. Through these coordinated efforts, including potential redevelopment, adaptive reuse, and a unique RFP process to solicit feedback from community members for the highest and best use of the property, Big Rapids aims to ensure the long-term preservation and sustainability of this significant piece of Mecosta County's architectural heritage.
