It would be difficult to find a thoughtful person acquainted with the old Centre Market building in Wheeling who would argue it has not been a big asset to the city. The historic structure is a hub of business — and has helped attract new shops on adjacent blocks.

Steubenville officials have noticed that. They are discussing the possibility of a similar revitalization of what has been used as the municipal court building. It certainly is an idea worth exploring.

Box A on the list Steubenville officials must check off before proceeding already has been addressed. During a recent city council meeting, City Manager Jim Mavromatis said he had been concerned about the building’s structural integrity. But a walk-through with Councilman Bob Villamagna disclosed that is not a problem. “For the building to be as old as it is and in the condition it’s in, it’s great,” Mavromatis reported.

His comment was in reference to challenges such as the need for some repairs, such as a new roof.

Box B on the list is whether there would be any productive use for a restored structure such as the municipal court building. That, too, is being investigated — and there is reason for optimism. Villamagna says he has had inquiries from two entrepreneurs interested in the building.

So that leaves Box C, perhaps the most important of any on the list: Can the city of Steubenville afford to renovate the building?

There, work also is in progress. The possibility of obtaining grants for the conversion is being explored. And Mavromatis has suggested that if a grant could be obtained to provide new quarters for the municipal court, that set of offices could be moved out of the old building, making the whole structure available for commercial use. That process might involve the city leasing space.

What should gratify Steubenville taxpayers about talk of renovating the old building is this: City officials are not talking merely in terms of something it would be nice to do. They are approaching the idea realistically.

Can it be made to happen? That is impossible to say. For now, however, it is an idea that could aid economic development — and it ought to be pursued.