Hardware store gets funds for removing blight

Nelson’s Ace Hardware has gained approval for some assistance from the city when the business relocates to Highway 93 South.

City Council last week approved $100,000 in tax increment finance funds toward blight elimination at the planned future Nelson’s site on U.S. Highway 93. The business is planning to relocate to the old Army Navy store site at the Highway 93 and Commerce Street intersection. Nelson’s is currently under contract to purchase the property, according to owner Marilyn Nelson.

“Of all the projects that have been brought to Council this will do the most in terms of eliminating blight,” Councilor Frank Sweeney said. “This is going to be a great project.”

Nelson’s requested the funds, which are expected to be used toward site preparation including demolition of the existing building, dedication of right-of-way and landscaping.

“It will be great to eliminate blight on this property and also kickstart other projects in this area,” City Manager Adam Hammatt said. “The terrace and sidewalks they have planned will beautify this area.”

Nelson’s Ace Hardware is planning to relocate from its Central Avenue location to the new property. The site has been empty for many years.

“We have a vision to renew this highly visible block, while increasing both its functionality for our business and its aesthetics for the community,” Nelson said in a proposal to the city.

In exchange for the TIF funding, Nelson’s plans to provide to the city, 10 feet of additional right-of-way on the south side of 18th Street and an additional five foot right of way on the north side of Commerce Street. In addition, they also plan to landscape a 40 foot section next to the highway that will be used for stormwater detention.

“We see our project as an opportunity to breathe new life into this location,” Nelson said. “Funding from the TIF would help us make this vision a reality.”

Nelson said the sale on the property is expected to close in time for demolition to begin in July.

The Nelson family has owned the hardware store downtown for 70 years. This spring owners Rick and Marilyn Nelson and their daughter Mariah Joos announced that the store planned to relocate to expand the business and better meet the needs of the growing community.