Preservation Greensboro News
Developer Sought for Historic Building
28 April 2006 - Preservation Greensboro Incorporated (PGI) seeks a developer to adaptively reuse the historic Cascade Saloon at 408 and 410 South Elm Street. The three-story brick building was constructed around 1896, and features a prominent location between two railroad lines in the heart of the historic district.
PGI is currently developing a study to identify the fair market value of the site. Though the building enjoys commercial zoning, it will likely require major structural repairs and some reconstruction of interior spaces. An owner must be identified within the next 100 days.
“This building offers a unique opportunity to develop one of those creative spaces that melds historic brick walls with high tech steel beams and modern amenities” states Benjamin Briggs, executive director of PGI. “Unlike some of the more detailed restoration projects we have seen downtown recently, this site could involve a more radical interior design,” he says. Though the building has a colorful past as a saloon and even a roller rink, its interior has been damaged by years of neglect as a warehouse.
Significant features of the building are focused on the front façade and south wall of the building, which should be preserved. Interior appointments may require replacement. Some financial incentives could be incorporated into the project, such as designation of the site as a Landmark by the Guilford County Preservation Commission, or donation of a façade easement. Landmark status could earn the site a property tax deferral, while donation of an easement could be valued as a tax deduction. “We will work with a purchaser on this project to identify their needs and tools available to them through a variety of preservation tools” states Briggs.
Those with interest in the property should first contact Benjamin Briggs at bbriggs@blandwood. org, or by telephone 336-272-5003. Parties will be directed to appropriate property owner representatives at that time.
Preservation Greensboro Incorporated is a nonprofit membership organization that helps protect treasured historic and architecturally significant places. Established in 1966, PGI's programs range from educational seminars and walking tours to annual awards, children's activities and the news magazine, Landmarks. Its subsidiary organizations include the Preservation Revolving Fund, Architectural Salvage of Greensboro, Blandwood Mansion and Museum Shop, the Blandwood Carriage House, and the Blandwood Ball.