New owner of Old Wethersfield Masonic temple plans brewery, events space
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A rendering of the renovated Masonic temple in Old Wethersfield.
A local real estate broker and developer has plans to convert a historic building in Old Wethersfield into a brewery, restaurant and events space.
The Masonic Temple building at 245 Main St., in Wethersfield, sold on June 21 for $400,000 to 245 Old Wethersfield LLC, which is controlled by principal Nicholas Roman, according to town land records.
Broker and developer Michael Guidicelli said he represented the buyer in the deal and will lead the redevelopment of the property.
The seller was 245 Main LLC, controlled by Roger and Karen Tabshey, owners of General Paving. They were represented by commercial real estate firm O,R&L in the deal.
Guidicelli said all permits for a brewery and events space were secured by the previous owners and prospective tenants, Boondoggle Brewing, before those plans fell through.
The three-story building has 2,800 square feet per floor, and he envisions all or most of the building being occupied by a brewery with events space, but said the building could accommodate two separate tenants.
He envisions limited capacity brewing on-site, perhaps for an existing brewing company that is looking to expand into the Wethersfield area.
“I want a successful brand,” said Guidicelli, who added that he is already fielding calls from prospective tenants.
The property sits between other Old Wethersfield landmarks such as Lucky Lou’s and The Charles. The Masonic temple was built in 1922, but has long sat vacant, Guidicelli said.
Guidicelli said he will invest more than $1 million into renovating the building, starting with a new roof, outdoor patio expansion, sidewalk repair, cosmetic work, a new floor plan as well as upgrades to electrical, gas and HVAC.
He expects work to start within the next 30 days and be open for business anywhere from four to 12 months from now.
He said the town of Wethersfield was instrumental in securing the original permits, and town leaders are focused on bringing in new businesses that will create a vibrant downtown area.
To help fund the renovation, which has to follow historic guidelines, he will use incentives such as a 50-50 facade grant; $250,000 matching funds grant; tax abatement; and small business loan at 3% interest.
He said this incentive package is a model for other towns that want to spur growth in their respective towns and communities.
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