Kennebec Savings Bank Demolishes Historic House for New Office

UPDATE: Kennebec Savings Bank has initiated plans for a significant expansion in Augusta, announcing the demolition of a historic house at 15 Western Ave. to clear the way for a new five-story office building. The decision, made public during a meeting of the Augusta Historic Preservation Commission on October 17, 2023, has sparked controversy among local residents concerned about the loss of historical architecture.

The planned office space will accommodate over 100 employees and aims to expand the bank’s main campus, which now occupies most of the block bounded by Western Avenue, State Street, and Chapel Street. However, the bank’s CEO, Andrew Silby, stated that the building’s design necessitates the removal of the 1899 structure, designed by renowned Maine architect John Calvin Stevens.

At the commission meeting, Silby expressed regret over the decision, stating, “We worked very diligently to try to figure out what we could do with this building.” He explained that two contractors deemed moving the building “cost-prohibitive” and did not provide bids for the relocation. The building has remained vacant for approximately 15 months after serving as an optometrist’s office for years.

The cost for a historical renovation of the house would exceed $2 million, which, combined with the moving expenses, makes preservation unfeasible according to the bank’s assessments. The new office project also requires 170 parking spaces, further complicating the preservation efforts.

While the house is not located within any of Augusta’s historic districts and lacks a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, the commission acknowledged its historical significance due to its architectural pedigree. Commission members have imposed a 60-day delay on the demolition, allowing time for negotiations regarding the building’s future.

The community’s response has been mixed, with many expressing sadness over the loss. Commission member Cheryl Clukey remarked, “I was really sad when I got this letter. I knew it was coming, but I’m just really sad about it.”

The bank’s proposal requires additional approvals from the Planning Board for zoning changes and the City Council for height allowances before any construction can begin. During the meeting, local developer Richard Parkhurst publicly offered to purchase and relocate the house, suggesting a move to the nearby rotary. Commission Vice Chair Gerald Bumford indicated support for this option but stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “You’ve got 60 days left before the demolition delay expires. Time is of the essence.”

As the clock ticks down, stakeholders and community members await further developments in this contentious project. The outcome could reshape not only the bank’s operations but also Augusta’s architectural landscape for years to come.

Stay tuned for more updates as this situation continues to evolve.