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44 | Old Heat CERB Feasibility Study <br />The site’s appropriateness by addressing, at minimum, <br />appropriate zoning, affect to the state or local transportation <br />system, environmental restrictions, cultural artifact <br />investigation, and the site’s overall adequacy to support the <br />anticipated development upon project completion. <br />The Old Heat Building presents a potential opportunity for this proposed project. <br />This historic 18,000 sq. ft. brick facility, distinguished by its iconic smokestack <br />visible across the downtown area, sits on a substantial three-acre parcel at 509 <br />E 7th Ave. Its Public Reserve (P-R) zoning is a significant asset. According to <br />the Ellensburg City Code Chapter 15.300.070 1 “the P-R zone is a special use <br />classification established to provide existing and future areas where public uses, <br />such as, but not limited to, governmental, educational, recreational, cultural, and <br />other public uses operated by a public entity may be allowed to develop. It is <br />anticipated that the uses allowed may be unique and may involve a combination <br />of uses not permitted outright in any other zoning districts.” This zoning allows for <br />combinations of uses not otherwise allowed in the city of Ellensburg, making a <br />community building an encouraged and ideal fit for the site. <br />A key advantage is the property’s strategic location at the edge of the CWU <br />campus. CWU has expressed strong interest in collaborating with Kittitas County <br />and the City of Ellensburg to foster deeper connections with the community, <br />and the adaptive reuse of the Old Heat Building aligns perfectly with this goal. <br />This underscores the collaborative spirit and investment already being directed <br />towards the building, potentially opening doors for integrated or complementary <br />community functions within the broader modernization project. <br /> <br />From a practical standpoint, the property benefits from excellent pedestrian <br />access due to its downtown location and surrounding sidewalks. It is also <br />conveniently located within two blocks of multiple transit stops, enhancing <br />accessibility for a wide range of community members. The ample lawn space <br />surrounding the building offers significant potential for outdoor events and <br />public gatherings. While parking is currently limited, the generous parcel size <br />SECTION E <br />allows for substantial expansion of parking areas as part of a comprehensive <br />redevelopment plan. <br /> <br />The building’s existing size is a considerable advantage, offering greater <br />possibilities for larger capacities rather than starting new construction <br />from scratch and potentially reducing overall project timelines and certain <br />development costs. However, investors should be aware that, as a historic <br />structure, renovations will likely require review and approval from the Ellensburg <br />Landmarks & Design Commission to ensure compliance with preservation <br />guidelines. This process, while adding a layer of complexity, also protects <br />the building’s historical integrity, which can be a strong marketing point for <br />community buy-in and grant opportunities. <br /> <br />In conclusion, the Old Heat Building offers an unparalleled opportunity for <br />investors seeking to develop a community hub in Ellensburg. Its favorable <br />zoning, strategic location between the CWU campus and the City of Ellensburg, <br />excellent accessibility, and inherent historical character present a compelling <br />foundation for a successful project. While renovation and parking expansion <br />will require careful planning and investment, the potential for a community <br />asset, supported by existing inter-agency collaboration, makes this property <br />exceptionally attractive. <br />Image Credit: CWU Website <br />SECTION E