SALEM — While it is still reserved for special event rentals and seasonal theater performances, Old Town Hall stands dormant on most days.
A National Historic Landmark, Old Town Hall has served the community since 1816. In order for it to truly become an attraction for arts and culture, it is in need of a renovation that will both preserve historic elements of the building and create a vibrant space for the arts. Julie Barry, the city’s senior planner for arts and culture, describes the building as a community icon.
“It’s well loved and underutilized, with hardly any real transparent means to access,” said Barry. “We want to change that.”
With the new plan, residents and local creatives would have more consistent access to this community treasure year-round.
“Public art is part of the value of Salem. It’s key to the values that hold this city dear,” said Mayor Kimberly Driscoll. “This building has been central from a place of governance to a place of public markets, and now we hope this will continue to be a hub for cultural activities.”
The City of Salem is partnering with Mills Whitaker Architects, which is known for its expertise in historical properties.
“All proposed work will be designed with preservation of historical integrity at the forefront of mind, and reviewed by Massachusetts Historical Commision and Salem Historical Commission prior to implementation,” said Barry. “We are going to retain all of the natural, original character of the space. We will elevate it to a level that can accommodate multiple activities happening inside at once.”
New features would include a fire suppression system, an electric HVAC system that’s offset by solar rays and a renovated basement to add eco-friendly bathrooms, a small kitchen and community rooms. The building’s wheelchair accessibility will also be improved.
Plans for Old Town Hall are ambitious and require funding, and the city is seeking out federal and state grants. Driscoll says the city is already “committed to the project,” and a lack of funding would not cancel the plan altogether. It would just take longer.
“It’s too important of a building and location to not deal with the physical structure,” said Driscoll. “In other words, whether it happens in a quicker timeline or a longer timeline, it’s happening.”
Magella Cantara can be reached at [email protected]
