NILES, Mich. (AP) — A $275,000 project is taking place to fix the crumbling front porch and balcony and add a ramp for visitors in wheelchairs at the historic Chapin Mansion in Niles.

The South Bend Tribune reports a contractor encased the project area with scaffolding and heavy-duty plastic so work could start in cold weather.

Niles History Center Director Christina Arseneau says the project will take about four months to complete.

The city-owned mansion was built in 1882 and formerly served as City Hall. It’s the focal point of the Niles History Center campus, which also includes the Fort St. Joseph Museum.