In a conversation with Logan Cronk, Community Development Manager for the City of Danville, he outlined his thoughts and plans for Downtown Danville Development. With whatever money is left after the Bresee demolition the City is planning to to work on several buildings Downtown. A few buildings after internal review are structurally bad and there is no cost effective way to rehabilitate them. The area from the old Chart Records store to DC Fitness is is need of demolition. Because each building is connected, there was a difficulty getting a demolition company to even bid on a project. But now with all lined up for demolition, there is hope they can be taken care of and returned to a productive use.
The Downtown TIF fund is growing and may be a resource. The City may be able to offer incentives for 2nd and 3rd story renovations and has already awarded $250,000 grant funds for various renovations in the area.
The purchase of 115 Washington was driven by a desire to clean up the area and avoid letting the property go to an irresponsible bidder. It is also near the Danville Mass Transit area and securing that area might be advantageous.
Also, on a better note, the new development adjacent to Vermilion River Beer Company is progressing and there is no impediment to its completion from the City’s point of view. A new local eatery location will be part of the project. The Local, a favorite in Covington and Danville will be a permanent fixture there and add to our quality food options. Bands and other events will also locate there.