Florence County Set to Revive Notorious Jail Space
Florence, S.C. – Exciting developments are in store for Florence County as officials prepare to breathe new life into a long-neglected floor of the historic Florence County Building. This renovation promises not only to usher in 20,000 square feet of usable office space but also to transform a place that once housed one of the county’s most infamous residents – serial killer Donald “Pee Wee” Gaskins.
A Blast from the Past
You might be surprised to learn that the third floor of the Florence County Building, which has been used primarily for storage, was once the county jail and sheriff’s office before the construction of the modern Florence County Law Enforcement Complex about 30 years ago. It is currently filled with dust, old furniture, outdated computers, and even a few warning stickers about the presence of asbestos. Sounds like a bit of a time capsule, right?
According to Florence County Manager Kevin Yokim, the potential for this space is immense. “We have to harness this potential and remodel it into functional space that can accommodate the growing needs of our county,” he shares. With city and county offices now relocated to the Florence City Center, the county is eager to expand its footprint in a building rich with history.
Cost-Effective Solutions
What’s even better? Renovating this historical space will cost less than constructing new offices. “About a year ago we got three quotes to remove the steel, and it was less than a million dollars,” Yokim reveals. “You can bet that upfitting this space will be more economical than building from scratch.” The goal is to convert the old jail space into office environments that can support county operations efficiently.
During a recent council meeting, members, including Councilman Jason Springs, took a tour of the dilapidated jail facilities. It was a moment of both history and a glimpse into the future, showcasing the potential for growth of the county. “We want to make sure this area serves us well over the coming years,” Springs commented.
Health Concerns and Next Steps
Considering the presence of asbestos, a careful and well-monitored REMOVAL plan is essential before any renovations can begin. Yokim emphasized the importance of employee safety, stating that employees will be consulted about potential workspace concerns. “If anyone has medical conditions or concerns,” he assured, “we’ll do our best to accommodate them with alternate workspaces.”
The actual removal process will be closely supervised, ensuring that this cancer-causing material doesn’t pose any risk to the surrounding environment. “We’re committed to keeping our workers safe,” Yokim stressed. “Our employees are our most important asset.”
A Vision for the Future
Once the space is freed from asbestos and old steel remnants, the county plans to sit down with architects and construction firms to discuss the best way to utilize the space. It’s being anticipated that more office areas will be needed – given the rising demands of the county’s growth.
Speaking of space, it’s also possible that the renovations might transform old outdoor areas, previously used as basketball courts, into inviting spaces for outdoor dining or community gatherings. Yokim envisions a space that “is functional but not extravagant,” capturing the essence of what the county needs without overwhelming it with unnecessary frills.
Final Thoughts
The revival of this old jail area in Florence County is a fantastic step towards fostering growth while honoring the history embedded in the building’s walls. Even though the process involves significant work ahead—like tackling the asbestos and ripping out steel—Yokim remains hopeful and enthusiastic about the future. “Our building has withstood the test of time, and with the right updates, it will continue to be a vital part of our community for the next 50 years!”
So, as Florence County turns this chapter and embarks on a new journey with its historic building, residents can look forward to a blend of the past and future, all while opening doors for further growth and services.
