Austin, TX – Texas officials have almost finished stabilizing the fire-damaged Texas Governor's Mansion and hope to start restoration by early 2009.
Reporters were given a tour yesterday of portions of the historic home, which was nearly destroyed by a June 8 fire that's been labeled arson.
So far no arrests.
Dealey Herndon with the Texas Preservation Board says restoration efforts could take 2 1/2 years.
The mansion was under a $10 million renovation project when the fire started. Gov. Rick Perry and his family had already moved out.
First lady Anita Perry is leading a separate, private fund-raising effort for repairs that so far has raised about $1.85 million.
The tour revealed charred sections of the interior.
Upstairs, floors were damaged by water that sat six inches deep for days while the mansion was being treated as a crime scene.