ST. PAUL  — Minnesota officials are soliciting bids for proposed upgrades at the Governor’s Residence in St. Paul, including a renovation of the carriage house and a new pavilion for events.

Materials posted by the Department of Administration say the estimated $800,000 in work would be paid for through private donations and proceed only if that money is secured.

The plan calls for the remodel of the approximately 3,400-square-foot carriage house and construction of a 4,000-square foot addition that will include a commercial kitchen, dining area, conference room and some office space.

Department spokesman Curt Yoakum said the Governor’s Residence Council recommended the project after interviewing former first ladies and staffers, as well as learning how other states use their governors’ residences.

According to a press release, construction may not begin until the spring of 2018.

The governor’s mansion was donated to Minnesota in 1965 by the family of St. Paul lumberman Horace Hills Irvine, who had it built in 1912. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places.

Gov. Mark Dayton has used the space for high-level negotiations and social gatherings with state lawmakers as the state Capitol is being renovated. Groups also frequently use the home for special events, and it’s periodically opened for public tours.