The former Salvation Army Store on Broadway could serve as a catalyst for transformation across the entire block, according to City Manager Tom Ambrosino and Downtown Coordinator Mimi Graney, who are advancing plans for the property now that the City has acquired it.
During his State of the City Address on Monday, Ambrosino unveiled a strategy for the building’s future: seeking developer proposals for mixed-use redevelopment that includes substantial affordable housing. “Although the particulars of that development are unknown at this point, it will definitely include activation of the streetscape and affordable housing,” he said. “I really believe the redevelopment of the Salvation Army site could the spark for the transformation of that block between Fifth and Fourth Street.”
Currently, Graney is overseeing temporary modifications to convert the former retail space into a gallery venue with rotating exhibitions. The work includes exterior improvements, installation of temporary walls, and enhanced lighting systems to display the changing shows. Middle school students from the Eugene Wright Science and Technology Academy will be featured in the inaugural exhibition, with English teacher Lindsey Horowitz and art teacher Jennifer Porto guiding students as they compose poems about Chelsea and produce letterpress prints, posters, and other word and image-based works. Local artists wishing to participate should reach out to Mimi Graney at [email protected].
Looking ahead, the block’s development prospects have caught Graney’s attention as she pursues a significant MassDevelopment grant for the area, Ambrosino explained. “For the last several months, our Downtown Coordinator has been working with the Chamber, business owners and property managers on Broadway on a grant application to MassDevelopment to help us transform the block between Fifth and Fourth St. on Broadway,” Ambrosino said. “We’ll know for sure in a matter of weeks whether we are selected for this Transformative District Initiative Grant, but we are certainly confident in our chances. And, regardless, we now have a committed team to help us tackle the challenges in that block.”