When Caz Fitness closed its doors at 51 Albany St. in early February, local residents wondered why and what would occupy the space instead. Current construction activity in the building and “For Rent” signs in the windows have only increased the curiosity.
The new owner of the building at 51 Albany St., Eric Burrell, said he is now ready to make public his plans. He is renovating the run-down structure to create retail space on the first floor and office space on the second and third floors.
“This should be one of the coolest spaces in the village when we’re done,” Burrell said. “It will definitely be one of the nicest office spaces.”
The building at 51 Albany St., which dates to the mid-19th century, is comprised of 2,700 square feet on three floors, according to county records. In the 1800s the building was used as the Madison County Bank; it also has been a law office. In 2003, the building became home to Caz Fitness.
Burrell closed on his purchase of the building on Feb. 9 and immediately started renovations, of which it was in dire need, he said.
“The building hasn’t had anything done to it in years,” Burrell said. “It will be in great shape when were done.”
Exterior renovation work has included a new roof and all new windows.
On the first floor, renovation work has exposed some of the old stone walls of the building and will leave the entire first floor open and industrial looking with new lights, new flooring, two updated baths and a small kitchenette area, Burrell said. He envisions the space to be used for retail, or possibly even a wine bar or small restaurant.
The second and third floors are being renovated to the office use that was there some years ago, Burrell said. The second floor will have three offices and an updated bath, new carpets and lighting and the bonus use of the third floor as a conference room or more office space. The third floor has hardwood floors, exposed stone walls and a vaulted beamed ceiling with sky lights.
While undertaking the renovations, contractors uncovered where walls previously were during the buildings law office days, and new walls will be located in the original spaces, Burrell said. Workers also uncovered the original bank fireplace on the first floor, he said.
Building renovations are currently ongoing, but when they are complete Burrell said he will list the property for lease with Sean Hagen of Berkshire Properties and will start showing the space to potential tenants.
Burrell said he has already been approached by a few potential tenants, but has no commitments at this time.
He confirmed that, despite community hopes and rumors, Alicyn Hart will not be restarting her restaurant Circa, formerly located at 76 Albany St., in 51 Albany St.
Great Cazenovia Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Anna Marie Neuland said that the new life for 51 Albany St. will be good for the downtown business district.
“For downtown this will be great — one less empty storefront,” Neuland said. “There are a lot of [businesses] Cazenovia needs to keep people shopping here, rather than going outside the county [that could locate there].”
Jason Emerson is editor of the Cazenovia Republican. He can be reached at [email protected].
