Mound House explores repairs, engineering review and fundraising to reopen underground exhibit

Public commenters renewed calls Feb. 26 to restore and reopen the Mound House’s underground exhibit, and board members and staff discussed engineering, safety and fundraising strategies.

During public comment Joe (visitor) recommended low‑voltage lighting and ground injection to shore a collapsing wall and said, "I think you could do both of those for under $20,000 and have the thing open and running again." Karina Britas said staff had begun airing and cleaning the space, will engage a structural engineer to assess repairs and will gather estimates and potential timelines.

Board members suggested fundraising events and corporate sponsorships to underwrite more extensive repairs or creative engineering solutions, and one member noted the exhibit's potential as a strong fundraising and public‑relations asset. Karina said the Friends of the Mound House are already exploring grants and that staff will follow up with written cost estimates and potential sponsorship outreach.

Members also discussed interpretive options — glass tunnels, murals, and partial viewing — as ways to make the underground visible while managing restoration costs and safety. The board encouraged staff to compile a scope of work and rough cost estimates so trustees and community groups can develop a fundraising plan.