An economic boost while preserving history
COSHOCTON – Two building restoration projects in downtown Coshocton could receive a boost from the Paul Bruhn Historic Preservation Grant program.
The goal is to fund subgrant programs that support the rehabilitation of historic properties to foster economic development in rural communities. It will fund preservation projects for historic sites to include architectural/engineering services and physical preservation.
Coshocton is earmarked to receive $100,000 from the National Park Service program. A 10% match is required for each project. Portsmouth, Marietta and Cambridge are also up for funding.
Our Town Coshocton is working with Heritage Ohio on the program. Frank Quinn of Heritage Ohio and architect Rick Hawksley recently toured the selected sites to gather information for final applications. Each would receive $50,000.
The structures chosen for the grants were the Honey House, former home to Sue’s Hallmark, at 422 to 424 Main St. owned by Argyle Properties and the Row Houses at 693 Chestnut St., owned by Bradkins LLC. Both companies are out of Newark.
Liz Argyle of Argyle Properties said renovations of the Honey House have been delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, but she hopes to restart work this summer. Planned are two new storefronts on the first floor and five apartments upstairs.
“We are so grateful that Our Town Coshocton is constantly looking for resources to help improve the town and found the Paul Bruhn Grant,” Argyle said. “If awarded, the grant will allow us to do some needed exterior improvements to help stabilize, preserve historic features and beautify the building. With the rising costs of materials and labor this grant program has come at an essential time.”
Bradkins has also purchased the building at 555 Chestnut St., last home to Folland and Drown law offices, with plans to turn it into more housing and parking for apartment residents. It’s not part of the grant application. Bradkins is owned by Jay and Annie Adkins and Jeremy and Heather Bradshaw.
Jeremy said he came upon the Row Houses while looking at other properties in Coshocton. He fell in love with the old brick exterior and stucco roof. Most of the units also feature ornate fireplaces and unique sunrooms on the second floor. The goal is to bring it back to its original luster, but updated for modern living.
Jeremy said the additional grant funding would help to add amenities as remodeling is done.
“It may be the difference between us getting AC units versus not. We’re trying to put more amenities in, so getting that grant money will help,” he said.
Lanny Spaulding, executive director of OTC, said the two candidates were selected last month by an internal committee comprised of board members. OTC became a full member of Heritage Ohio last year, allowing Coshocton sites to be considered for the Paul Bruhn grant program.
Spaulding said he’s confident support from Heritage Ohio and Hawksley will assure Coshocton getting the grant funding as he feels the selected projects fit well the grant requirements.
Locally, Spaulding said the Row Houses demonstrate that the Downtown Historic District extends beyond Main Street. Additionally, adding to the local housing inventory is crucial as the region is on an economic rise thanks to the Intel plant being built in Licking County and other new or expanding businesses.
“In addition to being significant buildings of historic importance, this funding will help to ensure that these are re-purposed into functioning gems of the historic district downtown,” Spaulding said. “Both properties will also add inventory to a depleted housing market, all the while diversifying options for those looking to move here that prefer downtown living.” llhayhur@coshoctontribune.com @llhayhurst