WESTERVILLE – A building that originally housed the Westerville Post Office could soon become a new Uptown Westerville restaurant.
The Old Post Office Building at 28 S. State Street, built in 1935, served as the city’s Post Office until 1985, when it was sold to the city. It has been used ever since as a City Hall annex, with various offices using the space. Most recently, the Westerville Police Detective Bureau has called the space home.
With the new Justice Center opening later this summer at 229 Huber Village Blvd., the building will soon be vacant. This gave the city an opportunity to sell the property.
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A proposed ordinance would allow the city to enter into a contract to sell the property to Life in the VIlle V LLC and Westerville resident John Brooks. Brooks and his companies also own the Java Central building immediately north of the property.
“Family has been residents of Uptown Westerville since the 90s. One of my corporate offices is at 23 East College. Proud to say we moved into that location in 2017 and it’s grown from two to 14 employees,” said Brooks. “I believe I have a unique perspective with regard to what makes Westerville Westerville, and Uptown Westerville a great place.”
Economic Director Rachel Ray told City Council the proposed buyer has a history of rehabilitating, restoring and preserving historic buildings. She said the buyer plans to position the building for restaurant/retail use.
Brooks said he wants to look at how he can integrate pedestrian traffic between the Old Post Office Brooks says he is planning a special focus on a pedestrian walkway between different properties on the block.
“I really view this property as a community asset and I’m honored to have an opportunity to develop it,” said Brooks. “I’m excited to do something we’ll all be really proud of.”
No specific restaurants have been announced.
The proposed sale price is $500,000. The deal is expected to close by the end of 2022.