Historic Paramount Theater and Massasoit House Set for Repairs Amid Roof Leak Concerns
SPRINGFIELD — The Community Preservation Committee has responded to pressing concerns about the deteriorating conditions of the historic Paramount Theater and Massasoit House by recommending a $300,000 grant for crucial repairs. This decision comes after discussions during the committee’s recent meeting emphasized the urgent need to address the leaking roofs, which threaten further damage to these 19th-century structures.
Initial responses to the grant application from the theater’s new owners were mixed; however, as committee members heard presentations and engaged in discussions, support grew. Chairman Robert McCarroll underscored the importance of safeguarding historic buildings, stating, “We have to do triage on some of the historic buildings. Clearly, we don’t want the building to become more deteriorated.”
The committee’s meeting on Tuesday culminated in approval of 13 funding applications totaling $2.5 million, aimed at various projects that enhance the community’s infrastructure and historic preservation efforts. This year marks the eighth cycle of funding since the city adopted the Community Preservation Act, which imposes a 1.5% surcharge on city taxes, generating approximately $3 million annually.
Despite receiving 35 requests amounting to $8 million, the committee faces limitations in funding distribution. They still have nearly $957,000 available for upcoming applications, with plans to present recommendations to the City Council in June. Historically, only two applications have been rejected due to legal concerns.
The Paramount Theater, which has sat closed for over a decade, was purchased for $750,000 nine months ago by Mohan Sachdev, who discovered significant unaddressed roof issues, leading to water infiltration. Erica Swallow, president of the Springfield Preservation Trust, expressed her excitement over the funding approval, emphasizing the theater’s significance in the community and its preservation efforts.
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