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Date: 7/31/2015
WEST SPRINGFIELD – After years of inactivity, the former Elks Lodge will have a tenant. The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England (ICC) announced it will move from the Elms College Campus to its new home on Morgan Road.
Mayor Edward Sullivan and Sean Cahillane, president of the Irish Cultural Center Board of Directors, addressed a crowd of public officials and fellow board members at the facility on July 28. The two sides agreed to and signed a 20-year lease and a proclamation.
Sullivan said the new home of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England benefits both the city and the organization.
“This is a great day for not only the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England, but for West Springfield to bring the community together.” I know that it is going to serve and enrich West Springfield as we weave them into the fabric of our community,” Sullivan said. “This is going to be a win-win for all concerned. I’m just delighted to partner up.”
The Irish Cultural Center has been looking to make a move and began a search for a new site about a year ago, Cahillane said. As Elms College continues to grow, it became more difficult for the ICC to expand.
The new facility will have more room for wanted expansions, including a library, museum, genealogy center, offices and a traditional Irish pub, Cahillane said. He also said the plan includes making the ball fields operational, planting gardens and possibly building a traditional 1860s Irish cottage as an educational tool for children.
“We’ve had great success in the region with our cultural mission. We’re really looking forward to growth and a long term beneficial and culturally enhancing experience here in West Springfield,” Cahillane said. “We wish to become a good and valuable asset for the community.”
Though no date has been set for an official move, Cahillane said work has already started in renovating the facility and the ICC will be launching a capital campaign soon to help furnish the building.
Despite this, he and his organization have already adjusted to calling West Springfield home.
“We feel really welcome,” Cahillane said.