SMITHFIELD – After sitting vacant since 1999, the former Smithfield Town Hall is close to being repurposed.
On April 15, Noviomagus, LLC of Durham received approval for conditional rezoning for the property. The new owner plans to convert the historic building, at the corner of South Fourth and Johnston Streets, into 9 residential apartments. No one spoke in opposition to the rezoning during a public hearing.
Built in 1936 and 1937 as Hotel Gabriel Johnston, it opened on December 23, 1937 with 32 guest rooms, full bathrooms, telephones, a restaurant, dining room, and coffee shop. The hotel cost $75,000 to build. It was touted as “fire-proof” and “steam-heated.”
On February 15, 1962 the hotel was sold to the Town of Smithfield for $108,500 and financed for 15 years. It was converted into town offices. A portion of the building was also used at one time for chamber of commerce office space. In 1998 the building was sold by the Town of Smithfield to a group of local investors for $165,477.50. In December 2022, Noviomagus purchased the building from the investment group for $250,000. It had been on the real estate market for $450,000.
Town leaders approved the conditional rezoning by unanimous vote. One stipulation placed on the property was the exterior bricks could not be repainted without prior approval by the Town and Historic Properties Commission. The new owner indicated there were no plans to repaint the bricks but the stipulation was still placed on the rezoning.
Developers said there are no plans for commercial use of the property, only nine spacious residential apartment units.
There was no timeline given when renovations would be completed.
I remember hearing years ago that this building had asbestos, and was not suitable for use. That’s why it’s been vacant for so long.
Not true. The asbestos in the building was abated. It’s sat vacant because a project like this requires the right owners who have vision and capital, and because it can be difficult to make the numbers work.
I seem to recall now that you mention it that the asbestos was removed. 98 % sure but not 100%
It sure would be nice to see this old building renovated. If it does have asbestos, I sure hope the State will make sure it is removed. I am sure it was asbestos that gave me cancer as an ex FDNY firefighter.
Time for your meds Steve.
I don’t know what your problem is, but you are a SHMUCK!
@Steve: Go back yo NY and take your socialist, lib, snowflake views with you! People like you are destroying the state. #MAGA #MNCGA