Historic buildings get torn down a little too quickly around Central Ohio.
It’s always a shame to see a beautiful old building go and on the opposite side of that, it’s always a joy to see someone put time and effort into restoring and repurposing these spaces. In Delaware, a gorgeous old train depot is getting a new lease on life.
Originally built in 1885 by the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis (C. C. C. & I.) Railway Company, this historic train depot has lived many lives. The latest rendition of the depot will be a mixed use space brought to life by RiverWest Partners.
The developer plans to turn the building into a community destination that will include both restaurant and office space, highlighting the classical architecture of the depot.
Plans for the depot’s future go beyond the surface. There’s talk of potentially removing an embankment to reveal the hand-hewn stone foundation, creating a walkout restaurant and a charming patio along Lake Street. Preserving the historical charm of the property is paramount for RiverWest Partners, who are dedicated to restoring the exterior to its original splendor.
RiverWest took ownership of the depot in 2019 from CSX Transportation, laying the foundation for a significant undertaking. The initial round of renovations gained approval from the commission in March 2022.
This phase included replacing the roof, restoring wooden doors, preserving the masonry, and reconstructing the roof overhang on the building’s east side. While these efforts are still in progress, they’re expected to conclude soon.
Yet, this is just the beginning of RiverWest’s plans. The next phase involves further site enhancements, including utilities and landscaping, set to be finished before winter sets in. The upcoming projects encompass removing existing site components, shaping the terrain, and establishing a new asphalt parking area. A cozy pea gravel patio and concrete walkways will welcome visitors, while the existing retaining wall undergoes repairs.
A subtle black chainlink fence is envisioned along the eastern property line by the railroad right-of-way, and a new metal handrail will be installed at the east entrance. City documents for the project outline the addition of an ADA-accessible driveway approach along Central Avenue, ensuring easy access to the parking lot. A new lawn will take root, while the existing lawn will be nursed back to health.
During a recent session, the Historic Preservation Commission members unanimously greenlit the elements of the second phase.
“We are excited to rehabilitate and develop this unique building to bring it back to life while adding to the growing energy of the east side of Delaware. Delaware has seen tremendous growth in its downtown, and we are starting to see this same energy on the east side,” said RiverWest in a statement when the project was first announced in 2021. “We think the Depot will be a catalyst for continued neighborhood growth, together with many other projects completed or in the works in this dynamic neighborhood.”
