Tax breaks OK’D for historic ex-bakery
Clears way for redevelopment of the historic Kroger property
The state of Ohio has approved tax breaks for the former Kroger bakery on Cleveland Avenue, clearing the way for the redevelopment of the historic property.
The Ohio Department of Development awarded $5 million in historic tax credits for the $115 million development on Tuesday.
The developers – Casto, the Robert Weiler Co. and the Kelley Cos., which together are called “Halfbaked Holdings” for this project – are proposing to redevelop the two historic manufacturing buildings on the site into a complex that would include apartments, offices, retail and restaurant space, and parking.
“Giving these buildings new life preserves Ohio's past and provides economic opportunity for the future,” said Gov. Mike Dewine in a news release announcing the tax credits. “By preserving parts of our past, we are also enhancing the quality of life in our downtowns and neighborhoods.”
The developers plan to retain the two primary buildings on the 9.4-acre site, a 155,000-squarefoot building erected in 1914 where Ford once built Model T cars; and a 250,000-square-foot building that opened in 1928 as a Kroger bakery.
“These projects are an important investment in preserving the unique history of our communitiesnot only do they help conserve our historic buildings, but also give them a second life and prepare our communities for the future.” Lydia Mihalik State Development director
In addition, three four- or five-story apartment buildings would be built to the north and west of the older structures. The extensive grounds would include a basketball court, swimming pool and dog park, in addition to several seating areas.
In all, the project would include 360 apartments, 49,000 square feet of office space and about 10,000 square feet of retail or restaurant space.
Half-baked holdings bought the property in February 2020 for $8.15 million. In September, the city’s Development Commission recommended rezoning the property from manufacturing to residential at the developers’ request.
The project must receive final City Council approval, but the state tax credit is a big step forward, said Brent Sobczak, president of Casto Communities.
“It was a critical piece to help move the project forward, one of several pieces of the puzzle we need to make it happen,” he said.
Sobczak said he expects the plan to be presented for city approval after the first of the year. If the city approves it, construction could begin next summer.
Kroger closed the bakery in February 2019, ending the jobs of 411 workers.
The Kroger bakery tax credit is among $36.2 million in historic tax credits the state awarded to renovate 27 historic buildings. It was the only project in Greater Columbus to be approved.
“These projects are an important investment in preserving the unique history of our communities,” said State Development Director Lydia Mihalik said in a news release. “Not only do they help conserve our historic buildings, but also give them a second life and prepare our communities for the future.” jweiker@dispatch.com @Jimweiker