Introduction
420 Cherry Street is a building rehabilitation experiment in Helena, Arkansas. Formerly known as the Cherry Street Deli, it is being renovated for use as a community workshop. The renovation project started in June 2006 and the goal is to have both commercial space (ground floor) and residential (second floor) ready for use by the summer of 2009. Utilizing volunteer labor, salvaged materials, and patient decision making, the project is currently on track to be completed for less than $25 per square foot.
Goals
1) Repair and make fit for use a historic building that was once falling down and nearly useless. All repair work will meet or excede current code requirements, be of sound construction, and respect both the historical appearance and craftsmanship.
2) The second goal involves the human capital developed in the process of accomplishing the first goal. This project is an experiment which also makes it a learning experience for the volunteers who are a part of it. In exchange for mental and physical time and effort, volunteers can gain experience in building trades.
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