City seeks ideas to redevelop historic Old Firehouse

The City of Plymouth is actively seeking innovative proposals for the careful redevelopment and future utilization of its historic firehouse and city hall property.

The Historic Fire House and City Hall Advisory Committee to Plymouth Mayor Listenberger is seeking soft proposals from parties interested in the long-term use and operation of the former fire house and city hall building located at 220 North Center Street. The proposals are not binding, and the Committee can accept any or reject all proposals.

Those submitting proposals deemed by the Committee to demonstrate logical planning, the ability to sustain operations, and offer substantial public benefit, whether for-profit or non-profit entities, shall be invited to submit and present more detailed proposals to the Committee at a later date. The City of Plymouth intends to retain ownership of the building.

This initiative offers a unique chance for developers, businesses, community organizations, and preservationists to help revitalize downtown Plymouth by reimagining this important local landmark.

The Old Fire House and City Hall property is located at 220 North Center Street, a block west of the historic commercial district, across from the Plymouth Library, next to the Plymouth Post Office, and two blocks south of the Marshall County Courthouse. The property includes off-street public parking on its north side that may also be considered for program development.

The building was constructed in 1875-1876 as the original combination Plymouth Fire House-City Hall and appears to be the oldest of its kind in the state of Indiana. The building has approximately 1,500 square feet on the first floor and 1,500 square feet on the second floor.

The first story features modern offices and toilet rooms, while the second story houses the original city hall chamber and fire pole, along with modern toilet rooms and an elevator. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is within the Plymouth Downtown Historic District, which may provide rehabilitation tax credit or grant assistance for qualifying work.

The soft proposals should not exceed four pages and indicate use, ownership structure, ability to sustain operations and maintenance, and the approximate number of individuals, employees, or market that would benefit from the proposed use. Please include name and contact information, and forward the proposal to the City of Plymouth, Mayor’s Office, 124 North Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563. All proposals must be received by 4 p.m. on Aug. 29.

Interested parties are encouraged to review the comprehensive details.

For any questions or to discuss this exciting opportunity further, please feel free to contact the mayor's office directly at 574-936-6717.