Sounds like the right place to start to me. Who knows, maybe the state has funds available to support this sort of thing. Not mentioned so far is the present owner of the store. No doubt, he would have something to say about this.

Looks like you're going to have to make a trip up there, beat the bushes, talk to the locals, and find out the lay of the land. Is the store boarded up or is access still permitted?

Nevertheless, what a fascinating project this will be. Looking to hear more from you, Bryan

Boz