HISTORY
This is one of the oldest commercial buildings remaining in Springfield. It was erected circa 1830 for Elisha Gunn’s store selling coffee, rum, molasses, sugar, and spices.
![gunnblockWPA gunnblockWPA](https://springfieldpreservation.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gunnblockWPA.jpg)
![Gunn-Block2 Gunn-Block2](https://springfieldpreservation.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Gunn-Block2.gif)
THREAT
In recent years, the building was vacant and deteriorated. Its owner considered it for demolition for a parking lot. It was purchased by DevelopSpringfield, a local nonprofit which has renovated historic buildings. The condition of the building has been found to be far worse than thought, and rehabilitation costs have soared.
REUSE
DevelopSpringfield will receive $250K of CPA assistance to stabilize the building. Work is expected to start this spring. A new roof will then be installed. Long-term rehab plans and reuse are still undetermined. Its close proximity to both Springfield Technical Community College and the STCC Technology Park make it a good site for a food service establishment.