Rochester Commission Weighs Request to Remove Historic Buildings

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Rochester Heritage Preservation Commission meets tonight to consider a request to remove three properties from the downtown historic landmark district.

The agenda indicates that one of the three properties is owned by Capital Ventures LLC, which is also in negotiations to acquire the other two buildings. The affected properties are the Odd Fellows Building on the northeast corner of 2nd Street and 1st Avenue Southwest, the former Northwestern National Bank Building (now known as Brackenridge Square), and the Olmsted County Bank and Trust Building at 7 2nd Street Southwest.

History of the Odd Fellows and Bank Buildings in Rochester

City documents state that the Odd Fellows Building was constructed in 1906 and is an example of Prairie School architecture. The Odd Fellows fraternal organization occupied the upper level of the structure, while the first level has been used for commercial purposes.

The documents also note that the Olmsted County Bank and Trust Building was constructed in 1918 in the Neo-Classical style. Following its use as a bank, the building was used by a number of restaurants beginning in the 1970s and most recently housed Goonies Comedy Club.

The Northwestern National Bank Building, now Brackenridge Square, was built in 1957. Documentation in the Heritage Preservation Commission agenda states that the structure is an example of investment in Rochester’s downtown commercial core during a period of limited new construction.

The request to remove the properties from the historic district contends that they “lack individual historical or architectural significance.” According to the agenda, no evidence was included to support that claim.

Arguments for Removal Cite Renovations and Economic Hardship

The application also argues that the three properties “contain modifications, renovations, and material changes that contribute to a loss of historical integrity and original design features.” It further contends that continuing the historic designation would cause economic hardship for the owners. While Capital Ventures LLC has not submitted any development applications for the properties, documentation in the commission agenda suggests the company is planning to pursue demolition of the structures.

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City staff is recommending denial of the request. The commission meeting is scheduled to take place at the Rochester Development Services and Infrastructure Center on West River Parkway Northwest beginning at 5 PM.

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