NORWICH – The Common Council held the first of two public hearings last night concerning its application for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the rehabilitation of properties located on the corner of Mitchell and State streets.

According to Planning and Community Development Specialist Todd Dreyer, the main structure involved in the proposed renovation is the three-story, historic brick building once known as the Commission House and currently owned by landlord Salvatore Grippaldi.

In the mid-1800s, the structure was used as a warehouse for goods being transported on the nearby Chenango Canal. Due to its historical significance – and its close proximity to the city’s Museum District – Mayor Joe Maiurano said renovation of the structure would not only provide affordable housing, but would also draw tourism to the area.

“This has been an area that has deteriorated over many, many years and that needs to be addressed,” said Maiurano. “There’s a lot of potential for progress in that area, especially as the city continues to grow.”

Dreyer said the CDBG grant would be utilized in the rehabilitation of five existing residential units in the Commission House, in addition to two new apartments on the third floor of the building. At least two, and possibly three, wooden structures adjacent to the structure on State Street would more than likely be demolished and replaced with a parking area for tenants, he added.