The Springfield City Council on Nov. 24 approved a special permit to convert the long‑vacant property at 333 East Columbus Ave. into 39 market‑rate apartments and add about 50 parking spaces.

Attorney and former Springfield city clerk Anthony Wilson presented the project on behalf of the developer, saying the renovation will remove an existing glass structure along the facade, upgrade the exterior and lighting, and clean up a property that has been “an eyesore” for years. “The project is to create 38 studio and 1‑bedroom apartments at the property known as 333 East Columbus Avenue,” Wilson said.

Wilson told the council the developer will acquire the adjacent parcel at 337 East Columbus and provide a draft perpetual easement allowing pedestrian and vehicular access from Bruno Street in addition to East Columbus. He said the developer is amenable to planning‑department conditions and will maintain the site and provide a 24/7 contact number for residents.

Leo Florian, president of the South End Citizens Council, told the council neighborhood groups reviewed the proposal and voted unanimously to support the cleanup and redevelopment. “We voted unanimously to support this. To see that cleaned up, especially as one of the entrances coming into Springfield, we’re tired of looking at it,” Florian said.

Councilors asked about rent levels and noise mitigation. Councilor Whitfield noted concerns about affordability for single individuals and asked what rents will be; the applicant estimated market rents “anywhere from 1,200 to 1,400 per unit.” The applicant said the building will be fully insulated and use noise‑reducing windows.

The council conducted a roll call and, after finding more than the two‑thirds required, approved the special permit; the president said the permit will be available to pick up after the 20‑day appeal period expires.

What’s next: The developer must finalize acquisition of 337 East Columbus, record the easement, and satisfy the planning department’s listed conditions before building permits proceed.