Finding an Owner for Historic Property

A building once a hub for passengers traveling from Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and St. Louis sits empty in downtown Zanesville.

The Zanesville Community Improvement Corporation would like to change that. From now until November 25 they’ll be accepting proposals from those that would like to renovate the historic building and turn it into a property that will increase economic development in the downtown.

Proposals must meet a variety of criteria.

"It has to do with someone that’s vested in the area or someone that has the capacity to perform the work that they are intending on  doing to the building. Certainly we’re looking for the renovations on the building to be completed within a 24 month period," explained Director of Community Development Stacy Clapper.

The CIC will also look at what is the highest bid and best use of the property when making their decision. Clapper’s hope is that one revitalization may spur others to make repairs to their properties.

"In the past we have operated some grant programs where we were able to assist building owners. Right now we do not have any funds for that but we certainly encourage any property owner in the downtown to seek out funding that’s necessary to make facade improvements and to be able to deal with other major systems," said Clapper.

There is a minimum bid of $20,000 for the property. Once the CIC makes a decision on a proposal it will have to be voted on by City Council. For a complete list of requirements and other information about  the passenger depot click on the link on the left side of this story.