Major Property Acquisition for Frenchtown Neighborhood

News Summary

The Tallahassee City Commission has approved the purchase of the Tish Byrd House and Community Gardens for $300,000, aiming to enhance the Frenchtown community. Funded by a $6.4 million allocation from the Frenchtown Neighborhood First Plan, the acquisition seeks to transform the property into a hub for community gatherings and park space. The Frenchtown Community Action Team envisions a vibrant future supported by additional investments for renovations, marking a significant step toward community growth and well-being.

Big Changes on the Horizon for Tallahassee’s Frenchtown Neighborhood

The Tallahassee City Commission has made a splash in local community news by giving the green light to a significant property acquisition. In a unanimous vote, the commission has approved the purchase of the Tish Byrd House and Community Gardens for a crisp $300,000. This exciting advancement is set to benefit the bustling Frenchtown community.

A Prime Location for Community Growth

The charming property is nestled conveniently on W. Georgia Street, situated between N. Macomb Street and N. MLK Jr. Boulevard. With such a perfect location, it’s no wonder why this purchase is making waves in the community. The current owner, Big Bend Community Development Corporation (CDC), set the selling price at $300,000, which has now been approved by the commission.

Funding for Fabulous Future

So, where’s the money coming from, you ask? Well, this purchase is being funded through a hefty $6.4 million allocation dedicated to the implementation of the Frenchtown Neighborhood First Plan. This initiative is designed to breathe new life into the area, and acquiring the Tish Byrd House is just one of the many steps being taken to enhance community vibrancy.

Valuation Insights

Before making the purchase, the city engaged two appraisers to determine the true value of the property. Their findings were quite fascinating, with appraisals coming in between $330,000 and $350,000. This comprehensive assessment provided the commission with the confidence they needed to move forward with the acquisition.

Community Benefits Galore

The driving force behind this property purchase is the Frenchtown Community Action Team (CAT), who initiated the request for this acquisition. Their vision for the Tish Byrd House includes transforming it into a hub for community gatherings, as well as offices for Neighborhood Affairs staff. They have big plans for the garden area too—it is set to be transformed into a delightful community park, a place where residents can gather, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Financial Forecast for Future Use

As with all renovations, costs will emerge. Initial repair and maintenance expenses for modifying the property from residential to community service use are projected to land around $100,000. But that’s not all; in total, the financial requirements to acquire the property and make necessary upgrades will hit approximately $1,750,000. This investment is seen as a crucial step toward fostering community connectivity and well-being.

Building a Bright Tomorrow in Frenchtown

The ambitions of the Frenchtown CAT don’t stop with the Tish Byrd House. The team has its eyes set on other properties in the area, eyeing acquisitions that can further bolster the community’s growth and support its historic character. With a focus on maintaining the soul of Frenchtown while also enabling modern enhancements, the CAT is striving for a renaissance that puts community benefit front and center.

The Community Awaits!

This unanimous decision by the Tallahassee City Commission marks a bright new chapter for the Frenchtown neighborhood. As renovations begin and plans unfold, residents can look forward to a community space that brings everyone together in a vibrant, supportive environment. It’s exciting times ahead, and the community is eager to embrace all that this new acquisition promises!