The Longworth property is once again on the market.
On Thursday morning, the Chelsea Downtown Development Authority voted unanimously to “make the Longworth property for sale.”
Following a discussion that recapped a recent work session, DDA members discussed a number of possible scenarios regarding the Mack and Livery buildings that included the possibility of selling the two buildings separately and whether the connector between the two should first be removed to make the sale more attractive to a developer.
It’s still the DDA’s intention to return this property back on the tax rolls.
The property was bought as “a whole piece,” but it doesn’t have to be sold that way, board members said.
“We’ve already done some added value to the property by getting the environmental issues taken care of,” said Mark Heydlauff, of the planned asbestos removal.
Chelsea City Manager John Hanifan said he expects the asbestos and lead removal to begin in January and take about two weeks. It’s being paid for by a grant.
“By February, Valentine’s Day, the asbestos should be gone,” he said.
“This is a step forward in the redevelopment of that property,” said DDA Chairman Pete Flintoft.
The group also discussed the alley behind the property, including getting a land survey to determine the property lines and put together a group including nearby property owners in the area to discuss ideas for the area’s future.
The DDA is looking at the entire Jackson Road corridor including the sidewalks and lighting in the area.
Another work session on the Longworth property is scheduled for Jan. 10 at 7:30 a.m. in the new Police Building.
