Chicopee has targeted the former library structure as a significant downtown redevelopment opportunity that supports the City’s overall goal of reactivating Chicopee Center as an urban destination.

Redevelopment of this building carries the potential as a further catalyst to increase downtown activity in an area of the City focused upon for further redevelopment planning. The City intends, through this RFP process, to identify a private entity to lease the building.

The former main library, which originally opened on May 13, 1913, served as the City’s main library branch until 2003 when the new main library opened, now located on Front Street. The building was designed by Kirkham & Parlett and constructed over a two year period. The facility consists of a full basement, first floor, and a partial second floor ‘mezzanine’ level that totals approximately 9,200 square feet.

In 2014, the City completed interior ‘selective demolition’ work that included the removal and disposal of interior walls, ceilings, flooring and other surfaces. Carpets, plaster, wall coverings, chair rails, and floor tiles, as well as a majority of asbestos containing building materials were removed. Wood trim throughout the building was salvaged and stored off-site for potential reuse as part of future redevelopment. Also completed was a comprehensive Structural Analysis and Code Review that considered anticipated applicable building codes that might be triggered with the renovation and reuse of the building.

As part of the structural analysis referenced above, the following uses were studied:
- Municipal office & storage space;
- Gallery space (i.e. art display, museum exhibits, etc.) with café area(s);
- Private redevelopment as a restaurant; or
- A mixed-use redevelopment including the above described uses.

To obtain a bidding package or if you have any questions on bidding procedures or general questions please contact Chicopee’s Planning Department at 413-594-1516.