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Date: 12/16/2021
CHICOPEE – Chicopee’s old library space has sat vacant over the last decade, but the historic site is now in the process of revitalization thanks to a $125,000 MassDevelopment Underutilized Property Program grant.
The approved grant by Gov. Charlie Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito is part of the duo’s 2021 Economic Development Bill. The Underutilized Property Program is a new facet of the economic bill, with the program funding 20 projects across the commonwealth after being signed in by Baker in January 2021, according to a press release.
In an interview with Reminder Publishing, state Rep. Joseph Wagner discussed the state house’s efforts to assist communities. “With our sights set on moving forward from the pandemic, we have been trying to utilize resources in ways that would have the greatest impact,” said Wagner. The representative said the new program is essential in its ability to target specific needs for communities across the state.
Wagner revealed that initial discussions surrounding the grant occurred during a business meeting regarding the Center Loop bike project. The representative also detailed the process behind the apportionment of Underutilized Property Program funding “Typically what will happen is the city will make application for state funding, then the legislative delegation provides the funding and the executive branch determine the allocation of those funds,” said Wagner.
With the grant secured, Chicopee sets plans to utilize the funds toward the revitalization of the old Chicopee Library space. Planning Director Lee Pouliot discussed initial plans for the space with Reminder Publishing. He envisions the location as a multi-functional entrepreneurial space that provides resources for new business owners and promotes businesses already established in Chicopee.
Pouliot’s said his vision for the site exceeds the expectations of a typical entrepreneurial hub. The planning director shared that the area will be an “ever-evolving space,” utilizing the venue as a place where businesses can test concepts or have vendors set up a permanent home. The interior of the space will also evolve as the space grows out of its infancy, with Pouliot discussing initial plans to potentially change interior brick walls. “The space will grow as we start ramping up the building,” said Pouliot.
“It’s been sitting dormant for far too long. We want people to experience what downtown Chicopee has to offer in a safe way,” said Chicopee Mayor John Vieau in a statement to Reminder Publishing.