Inside the Bostwick Building

[bornnative]

The scope of my $100k estimate is only to reach minimum code for the items the building is currently being dinged for.  Shoring up the walls can be done internally with leaned/attached beams, and the roof can be covered suitable to minimum code without actually installing a new roof.  There are separate structural issues that would have to be addressed that would most certainly get you into the $500k range and beyond, even before the building could be usable or occupied in any way.  To only mitigate the existing violations, however, should be significantly less.

Realistically, it's at least a $2million job to get it mitigated and usable depending on the exact buildout plan.  And that $2million doesn't buy you any parking.

The building is in a tough spot to be sure.  Unless a white knight shows up, I fear it may be past the point of viable salvation.

[thelakelander]

Yeah, the inside is basically a lost cause.  The best thing one could do with this site is shore up the exterior walls and construct something new behind them.  A good example of this is the residential loft at 11th & Market Streets in Springfield.

[Tacachale]

^That's a thought. The exterior is really cool and it would be hard to lose it.

[sheclown]

Some facts:

1.) the structure does NOT have landmark status and therefore cannot be mothballed as a protection against rolling fines

2.) the structure is getting $100 a day rolling fines

This building would qualify for landmark status if the owners choose.

Then it could be mothballed.

This was the first building to be issued a building permit after the fire.

This is the first building you see as you enter the city.

It is not a blighting influence right now.



It is a landmark, much like Springfield's steeple is "contributing".

[Adam W]

It would be a crime to lose that building. Surely there must be something that can be done.

(Of course, it's easy to say that when you're not the person who is going to have to shell out the $$$ to get it done).

[strider]

Once a building is condemned and MCCD starts on thier demolition campaign, only bringing the building to a certificate of occupancy stops the fines and gets MCCD's head off your back.  Or, of course, demolishing the building.  Shoring up walls and addressing the original MCCD concerns do not do it.  All they have to do is internally decide that the repairs needed are over 50% of the buildings value and they can insist it meets all of today's current codes. If you are thinking MCCD has too much power over an individual's property rights, you are correct.  It is, though, all in the name of safety, don't ya know. And the Jacksonville way.  Do whatever it takes to ensure another building gets torn down.

The positive is that with landmark status, this building could be mothballed for less than the cost of demolition and at least the facade saved for the future.

[JFman00]

Why haven't/don't the owners seek landmark status for the building and fundraise/Kickstarter the way to mothballing?

[Ocklawaha]

It would make a great place for a SOUTHERN FRIED ROCK AND BLUES museum, hall of fame, venue. Gotta wonder if we could interest the Molly Hatchet, Skynyrd, Allman Brothers or any of the other locals who would ultimately star in the exhibits? 

[BackinJax05]

I sure hope something can be done with it before it collapses on itself.

Neglecting historic buildings should be a crime.

[Timkin]

I sure hope something can be done with it before it collapses on itself.

Neglecting historic buildings should be a crime.

^ Thank you !!!  I am so glad to hear one person besides myself agrees about that !

[BackinJax05]

Looking at the pictures of the old vault, this would be a great place to shoot a BSDM adult film

[Timkin]

So.... To shore up the building ( keep it from collapsing )  What kind of money are we talking?


Surely there is an alternative to removing this place.   Cmon COJ / MCCD!!!    STOP THIS NONSENSE!!!

[sheclown]

The price tag to demo is $40k.  Certainly that could do some stabilization.

[sheclown]

MCCD has no dog in this fight.  With the exception of the $100 a day rolling fines.  They are not requesting demolition nor offering to pay for it.

Owners filed for a building permit to demolish last week.  Because it qualifies for historic landmark status --  but isn't one --  there is a hold on demolition permits for 45 days which gives the HPC time to speak on it.

[Wacca Pilatka]

The mayor posted this on his "details of downtown" Facebook photo series today, so I made sure to say my piece about how this building needs to be saved from demolition.  I encourage everyone to do the same.