New bank building keeps part of former church

Date: 10/27/2009

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



SPRINGFIELD -- Where St. Joseph's Church once stood on Columbus Avenue in the South End of Springfield, a new three-story office building was built, but the church is not forgotten.

At the official opening of the building, Frank Colaccino, president of the Colvest Group that developed the site, showed how elements of the church were included as part of the new structure.

"We wanted to be sensitive to the hundreds of people who walked through the doors of St. Joseph," Colaccino said.

Colaccino explained the demolition of the church was carefully done with the pews given to non-profits groups, churches and schools and colleges. The pipe organ was donated to St. Mary's Church in Northampton.

"There are little pieces of St. Joe's all around," he said.

Several artifacts of the church were saved for this new building, he said. Colaccino pointed out the bricks were the same color as the church's bricks and the diamond shaped inserts were reproduced. The church's wrought-iron fence was re-used and two lamps from the church were renovated and re-used. The crest from the church now graces an alcove in the entrance with photos of the church.

Bishop Timothy McDonnell said he believes that "Joseph the craftsman would be very pleased to see what is on the site of his church."

Berkshire Bank is the primary tenant for the building and the bank's president and CEO Michael Daley said, "I'm very excited about this spot, this building -- it's about being part of downtown."

Daley expressed his confidence in Springfield and the investment his company has made in the city.

"This is an area I'm bullish on. It has not only the capacity to survive but to thrive," he added.

He explained that Springfield's proximity to transportation; its colleges and medical facilities make it attractive.

"This company wants to be part of this growth," he said.

He promised Mayor Domenic Sarno and members of the City Council and School Committee who were present that "when the city of Springfield needs this company, this company will be there."

As part of the opening ceremony, Berkshire Bank and Colvest Group made a $2,500 donation to the Rays of Hope.