Nearly a year ago, the landscape of downtown Winchester changed dramatically when the Clark County Courthouse bell and the clock tower was removed and demolished.

The tower was removed in November as much of the wood had rotted and was causing significant leaks into the courthouse when it rained.

The tower was removed in three sections, and all that remains of the former structure are the bell and clock faces.

After nine months, including a four-month delay, the courthouse is expected to be returned to its former glory as early as next week.

Clark County Judge-Executive Henry Branham said the courthouse roof is ready for the new tower to be installed when it is delivered. The tower is being built in three sections.

The tower was initially scheduled to be installed in April, but the completion was pushed back by the manufacturers. The tower replacement costs about $772,000, including a private donation for the gold leaf.

This was a worthy cause for such an expense.

Not only is it essential government agencies keep their buildings up to code and in good condition, but the courthouse’s tower is also a bit of a local icon.

When you see logos, photos and more of Winchester, the courthouse tower is usually involved somehow.

We might be slightly biased, but in our opinion, Clark County has one of the most beautiful courthouse buildings in the state.

The courthouse is home to many local government offices but also serves as a center point for downtown and much of the activity there.

To see the tower get not just a facelift, but a full rebuild is great.

While watching the tower take form over the next few weeks will be an incredible sight, nothing will be quite as exciting as seeing the finished product and a beautiful element of downtown’s landscape restored.