Prost Builders recently completed the renovation and restoration of the historic Kirk Building on the Truman State University campus in Kirksville, Missouri, transforming it into a comprehensive Student Success Center.
Preserving History While Creating Modern Student Spaces
The Kirk Building presented a unique challenge: modernizing the interior to serve current student needs while preserving the building’s historic character. Prost Builders was selected for their expertise in historic preservation work.
Key historic elements that were carefully preserved include:
- The original marble staircase
- Ornamental plaster work throughout the building
- The early 20th century brick exterior
Scope of Work
The Prost Builders team gutted the interior of the building down to its shell, except for designated historic areas, to create an entirely new purpose for the facility. Major construction elements included:
- Adding a third floor to accommodate the Student Clinic
- Removing old bleachers and flooring from the second-floor gymnasium
- Constructing new concrete bleachers for the Forum presentation room
- Creating office spaces throughout the building
- Installing modern systems while maintaining the building’s historic integrity
Supporting Student Success
The renovated Student Success Center now houses several key departments under one roof:
- Career Center
- Tutoring Services
- Student Access and Disability Services
- Center for Academic Excellence
- Student Health Center
- Counseling Services
- Communication Lab
- Writing Center
The project reflects Truman State University’s commitment to enhancing student support services and engaging with the broader community. The facility will also be available to area K-12 students, adult learners seeking career advancement, and others looking to enhance skills in digital literacy and computer applications.
Project Leadership
Project Manager Drew Wilde, Assistant Project Manager Cristina Saylor, and Superintendent Troy Wieberg led the Prost Builders team to successful completion of this project.
Exploring a historic renovation project?
Prost Builders has over 75 years of experience preserving Missouri’s architectural heritage while modernizing facilities for today’s needs.
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