The entrance to one of Jim Thorpe’s most iconic landmarks is safer, sturdier, and ready to welcome more visitors thanks to a $34,400 state grant and a partnership with the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation.

CCEDC recently announced the successful completion of a Local Share Account grant project that brought major sidewalk and curb improvements to the historic Old Jail Museum on West Broadway.

The repairs included raising curbs to regulation height and fully restoring the sidewalks in front of the building. According to the CCEDC, the area had previously posed safety risks to pedestrians due to curbing that was either flush with the street or below regulation height. These issues stemmed from earlier state roadway paving work and led to water runoff problems and vehicles frequently parking on the sidewalk itself.

“Thousands of people walk to the Old Jail Museum each year, and ensuring their safety while preserving the charm and integrity of Jim Thorpe is a shared priority,” Kylie Adams-Weiss, CCEDC senior vice president, said. “We’re proud to support local landmarks like the Old Jail Museum through impactful funding and collaboration.”

The improvements not only enhance safety and accessibility for guests, but they also help preserve the museum’s iconic 150-year-old stone wall. According to the CCEDC, this completed phase represents an important milestone in the museum’s broader restoration plans.

This marks the second LSA grant project completed in 2025 with the CCEDC.

Officials from the Old Jail Museum expressed gratitude for the improvements and the partnership with the Chamber, noting the significant impact it has had on both guest safety and the museum’s appearance.

“The new sidewalk has significantly improved both the safety and accessibility of the Old Jail Museum,” Blaine Dart, museum manager, said. “Prior to the project, uneven and deteriorating sidewalks posed a potential hazard to visitors, especially older guests or those with mobility challenges. Now, with a smooth, clean entryway, guests can safely and comfortably access the museum, which enhances their overall first impression and experience. It also makes the front of the museum more visually appealing, helping set the tone for the historical and respectful environment we strive to maintain.”

Dart also emphasized the importance of support from organizations like the CCEDC in sustaining small historic attractions.

“Support from organizations like the CCEDC is absolutely vital to small, independent museums like ours,” he said. “Their assistance doesn’t just help preserve historic buildings — it helps maintain the character and beauty of the town as a whole. The grant process was entirely new to us, and the CCEDC staff were incredibly helpful in guiding us through all the requirements. Their support allows us to continue operating and offering a meaningful, educational experience to visitors from near and far.”

While the sidewalk was the museum’s biggest concern and most urgent need, the facility is also working on several other maintenance projects to keep the aging building in shape.

“These other projects include repairing plaster in the halls, maintaining the courtyard, replacing worn stair treads in some areas, and potentially installing additional historical information signage,” Dart said. “General upkeep is a constant need in a building of this age, and we’re grateful for the help that allows us to preserve this piece of history for future generations.”