Holy Heck that place is a diamond in the rough!

I went by there today and after some suspicious questions by the COPTA receptionist, I was allowed to roam freely inside and take lots of photos which I will post later.

COPTA only occupies a small part of that space and the rest is just filled with junky office equipment, neglected file cabinets and the like. I was told the tunnel out to the tracks is now used for storage.

As I looked around, it felt a bit like one of those movies where something terrible had happened in the past (a virus, atomic bomb, etc.) and the survivors had commandeered grand buildings for their personal use. To see a bunch of empty old desks amidst the original marble work on the walls, the iron light fictures, the arched windows, the cofferred ceilings, old ticket windows, etc... Well, it all seemed very out of place.

There are a bunch of old photos scattered around with some plaques explaining them. Hopefully some will turn out once I upload the photos.

The good news is that all the exterior stone work and everything inside looks pretty well preserved and in tact. Obviously, they've added some suspended ceilings and thrown up walls that weren't original, but I think everything behind and underneath is in good shape. I have absolutely no doubt that at some point in the near future that building will be completely restored not only in appearance but in stature. It is an absolute jewel.

The other thing that I noticed as I came out the front door: Once the postal facility due north is removed, there will be a great view of the skyline and a great line of sight all the way up the proposed park to the Myriad Gardens. Which also means the same will be true in the other direction and that Union Station will really be a beautiful focal point at the park's south end -- and a great gateway to the river beyond.

Pictures to follow soon!