Springfield gets 4 bids to redevelop former Indian Orchard fire station

The city of Springfield has received four bids for the purchase and redevelopment of the former Oak Street fire station. (The Republican file photo)

SPRINGFIELD — The city’s decade-long effort to find a buyer and new use for the former Indian Orchard fire station yielded four competing proposals this week.

The proposals will now be evaluated by a city review committee, with any sale of the property needing approval from Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and the City Council.

The four bidders for the property were listed as follows:

  • Gavoni Construction of Ludlow is proposing storage in one garage area of the first floor and company offices on the second floor. It is offering $40,000 for the property.
  • Herman Pittman of Northampton is proposing to use the site for his “Body by Pitt” program, designed to help children and adults with health issues. He is offering $200 to purchase the property.
  • The Indian Orchard Citizens Council is proposing to use the station for a community gathering space for seniors, youth and events; a police substation; a museum for Indian Orchard history; an office for veterans services; and shared office space. The council is offering $100 for the property.
  • The Mental Health Association is proposing to redevelop the building for permanent supportive housing for nine individuals deemed chronically homeless, with six apartments on the second floor and three apartments and common space on the first floor. The organization is offering $1 for the site, citing renovations needed.

The prices offered are just one of many considerations, city officials said. The city is offering a $65,000 incentive to the selected buyer.

The incentive from the city’s federal Community Development Block Grant program is for exterior work. Any of that work must be approved by the city Historical Commission.

Brian Connors, deputy director of the city Office of Planning and Economic Development, said in July he was hopeful an improved market and the grant incentive might lead to success for the former fire station. The city advertised for proposals that month after five failed efforts in the past decade to sell the Oak Street station.

Two years ago, the city offered $50,000 and received two development offers. Both — one for a live-in art studio and one for a opioid addiction clinic — were declined.

In its latest advertisement for bids, the city said it was most interested “in proposals that creatively integrate the site with the surrounding respecting zoning that creates a viable redevelopment opportunity and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the streetscape.”

The Indian Orchard fire station was built in 1897 and enlarged in 1906, according to a 2014 study.

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