Lt. Gov. Luallen Cuts Ribbon on Renovated Robertson Building in Springfield
Historic building on Main Street converted into affordable apartments, commercial space
SPRINGFIELD, KY – August 10, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen today cut the ribbon on the renovated Robertson Building in downtown Springfield, opening the door to a mix of affordable apartments and commercial space and infusing new life into the historic building’s footprint on Main Street.
“The Robertson’s transformation from 19th century retail center to 21st century affordable housing shows the power of innovative thinking and collaboration, and we have been proud to partner with you every step of the way on this renovation,” Lt. Gov. Luallen said during the ceremony. “But we can’t just measure the significance of this project by the dollars that have been invested. Creating opportunities for families to have safe, quality, efficient housing is fundamental to the livability of a community. And that you’ve done this while preserving a historic building, and reinforcing the beauty and vitality of your Main Street, is truly an accomplishment.”
The $1.6 million renovation was made possible with a mix of funds including a Community Development Block Grant, Kentucky Housing Corporation HOME funds and state and federal historic tax credits. AU Associates Inc. was the lead developer on the project, and also contributed additional funding.
The Robertson Building was originally constructed in the late 1800s, serving as an imposing commercial hub in downtown Springfield until the 1980s. The city recently sought funding to help restore the historic building, converting it into seven affordable apartments with a commercial space at the street level.
“I am so proud to see this historic Robertson Building restored to its glory,” said Springfield Mayor Debbie Wakefield. “This is one of the best examples of partnering CDBG and HOME Funds with State and Federal Historic Tax Credits, combined with some local funds to renovate, restore and return to a viable use, what was a vacant and rundown anchor building, along our Main Street. It’s an exciting day in Springfield, Kentucky and we are all delighted with the future this holds in creating economic development for our community.”
“Historic buildings are significant assets that play a valuable role in a community’s legacy, particularly when they are located in a revitalized area,” said Department for Local Government Commissioner Tony Wilder Wilder. “Renovating the Robertson Building will promote continued renewal in downtown Springfield and preserve a significant piece of the community’s history.”
“AU Associates is thrilled to have spearheaded the redevelopment of one of the most important buildings in the city of Springfield,” said Holly Wiedemann, president and founder of AU Associates. “We are passionate about bringing new life to buildings that have played such an important role in the life of a community. The WK Robertson Building, originally constructed as a dry goods store, has now been re-envisioned to begin its next life as gracious, beautiful, affordable apartments along with ground floor commercial space. It is now poised to enliven the bustling streetscape and continue the legacy of the community of Springfield.”
Contact
Kerri Richardson
Terry Sebastian
502-564-2611
