Plans to re-develop the old Empire Hotel building in Huntsville may be in the works

Its expected that if the project moves forward, there will be underground parking, commercial and residential space

Plans to re-develop the old Empire Hotel building at the corner of Main and Centre Street in Huntsville may be in the works.

The previous building on the lot which housed both commercial and residential occupants burned down in 2009.

Although staff can’t confirm details at this time, they indicated that “there has been a pre-consultation request for the property.” They added that remaining information about the potential development will remain confidential until further steps have been taken.

They advised that the interested party still needs to submit an application to complete this part of the process.

Deputy Mayor, Dan Armour, was able to provide more information about the potential project, including anticipation about the re-development of the lot and its goals.

It’s expected that a new building will be developed on the existing lot that will be similar to the old Empire Hotel, including both commercial and residential occupancy, and have parking as well.

Armour said, “Yes, the empire will have underground parking, a floor of commercial, and then three floors of apartments.”

When asked about what type of residential units are anticipated, he said, “I believe the apartments are going to be two and three bedrooms.”

However, they won’t know anything for certain until the planning application is received. Armour said, “Until we receive their plan, we're not really sure.”

Regarding whether the residential units will be in line with the Town’s affordable/attainable housing initiatives, he said, “I do know that they're gonna be for sale and I do not believe they're gonna be affordable, but we'll wait and see.”

Armour indicated that potential benefits to the community include the actual development of a replacement building. He said, “The pro will be the building being built. As we all know that corner has been an eye sore for many years.”

He added, “I'm hopeful it will revitalize that end of Main Street as well. There will be opportunities for new businesses right on Main Street.” 

With the potential new gain may come some loss. Armour said, “The cons will be the loss of some parking spots on Minerva Street.”

Staff indicated that if commercial development does take place there will be a public consultation period.

They added that once an application has been submitted, they will post a notification on the Town’s website and through email for community members that are subscribed “for development of the lot and details of the proposal,” and details of the public consultation.

The public will then be able to submit their feedback and can attend the public consultation.