Restoration work has begun on the 108-year-old arched canopy over Fourth Street, extending between the former Rock Island Railroad depot – the home of Business Publications Corp. Inc. – and the Hessen Haus restaurant.

The structure served as the entryway to downtown Des Moines in the era when most travelers arrived by train. It’s now owned by Connie Wimer, owner of Business Publications and the former depot.

Wooden pieces were removed from the top years ago. Now Steel Erectors of Iowa workers will replace several pieces of the iron structure; Graham Construction Co. is the general contractor on the project. The restored canopy will be repainted when warm weather returns.