The future of the historic Turnhalle building at Ninth and Rhode Island streets is looking a little brighter.

Tony Krsnich, who has developed the Warehouse Arts District a few blocks to the east, has entered into a contract with the Lawrence Preservation Alliance to purchase the Turnhalle, which was built in 1869. Even better news for the community is that Krsnich hopes to find a public use for the building, which once housed a German-American social club and served as a gathering place for activities ranging from beer drinking to gymnastics competitions. Among the options under consideration are restoring earlier uses of the building such as a beer garden or bowling facility. Krsnich, who expects to spend upwards of $1 million on the structure, also noted that the main floor would provide a nice performance space or perhaps accommodate a restaurant.

The announced contract also is great news for the LPA, which deserves kudos for its work to stabilize and preserve a historical building that otherwise could have been lost to the community. LPA took a considerable financial risk to purchase and shore up the Turnhalle, and it’s understandable that its president described the group as both “thrilled and relieved” by the purchase contract. The organization spent about $170,000 to replace the roof and make other structural repairs to the hall and really doesn’t expect to recoup all of its investment. Lawrence is fortunate to have a group that is willing to tackle — and provide financial backing — for a project as big as saving the Turnhalle.

The work LPA did on Turnhalle no doubt was a key to finding a buyer for the property. Another important factor likely was approval of a grant to create a Ninth Street arts corridor that will run next to the hall. The city is poised to put off some other local traffic projects to make a $3 million investment in street and pedestrian improvements in that area, so taxpayers also should be thanked for their support.

Krsnich now has 60 days to examine the building and consider future uses before completing the contract with LPA, but his excitement about the possibilities for the building is contagious. Lawrence is proud of its history and fortunate to have residents and developers willing to preserve and build on it.