Many people in Lincolnton have fond memories of the building. It was once a school as well as the city recreation center. The City of Lincolnton, Lincoln County and the Lincoln County School System were the former owners of the property and donated the property to the DDA to be the catalyst for its redevelopment. It is anticipated that the architectural and engineering analysis and National Register nomination will be completed within six months and the rehabilitation of the building within 24 months.
Gray Stout of Stout Studio Architecture has been hired to complete the plans. "Gray has won a number of awards for rehab projects that he's been involved in," said Brad Guth, Business and Community Development Director. "His knowledge and experience with old buildings will be valuable to the project."
DDA has the building listed for sale for $60,000. The grant will reduce the cost of the rehabilitation project for the purchaser/developer. In addition to the $35,000 towards the plans the building is eligible for over $10,000 in local grant programs.
"Receiving this grant is a great next step for our continued efforts to rehabilitate the building," said Brad Whitley, Economic Restoring Work Group Chairman for the Downtown Development Association. "With the plans paid for and more grants available for the construction work a buyer will be getting a very good deal."
Once a buyer is found DDA will enter into a rehabilitation agreement with the buyer to ensure that this historic building is rehabilitated to original conditions in an appropriate and timely manner.
The entire restoration project is estimated at $360,000. The actual building rehabilitation costs will be the responsibility of the private developer secured to redevelop the property.
If you are interested in purchasing the property or have pictures or stories about time spent in the building, please contact The Downtown Development Association of Lincolnton at 704-736-8915.
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