For the first time in more than half a century, the Ferry Building was reopened on the New Jersey side of Ellis Island Monday.

The group ?Save Ellis Island? and the National Park Service helped restore the Ferry Building, which was shut down in 1936. Restoration work on the exterior began in 2000, including masonry repairs, a new roof and restored steel windows

Last year, the interior restoration began on the historic finishes and fixtures. New electrical and fire protection systems were also installed in the building.

The Ferry Building is the first of 30 buildings to be restored and reopened on the New Jersey side of the island. Many say its reopening marks a new beginning for what was once a place of new beginnings for immigrants.

?It?s the beginning of our taking the next step to really save all of the island and tell the full Ellis Island story and bring it back to life again,? said Cynthia Garrett, the superintendent of the Statue of Liberty.

The restoration project was funded by federal funds, New Jersey state funds and private financing. Another one of the 30 buildings should be open within the next couple of months.

For an interview with Cynthia Garrett on the restored building, go to channel 612 of your iO digital cable box and select iO extra.

Related Information: Ellis Island