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DIA to fund demolition of former Marsh building; estimate about $835,000

Special Committee on the Future of Downtown · January 12, 2026

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Summary

DIA staff reported the former Marsh building is not salvageable and estimates demolition and asbestos abatement at about $835,000; DIA indicated readiness to fund demolition and prepare the parcel for an RFP and potential temporary uses like surface parking.

DIA staff told the special committee the former Marsh building near the riverfront is not salvageable for redevelopment and recommended demolition to make the parcel site‑ready.

Colin Tarbert said DIA has coordinated with public works on demolition cost estimates, including asbestos abatement, and the contractor estimate is approximately $835,000. "The whole total cost here from the demolition contractor is around 835,000," Tarbert said. He added that DIA is prepared to use agency funds to move forward with demolition and asked the committee to consider partial temporary parking or other interim uses while the longer‑term disposition is planned.

Why it matters: clearing the Marsh site would free a riverfront parcel for RFP solicitation and could temporarily increase parking capacity or allow public‑realm uses while larger adjacent projects proceed. Council members urged the city to consider maintaining access to the existing boat ramp and to avoid fencing the entire site during interim use.

Next steps: DIA staff said they will finalize demolition procurement and logistics and then issue an RFP for redevelopment later this year; council members asked for clarity about timing for related site vacancies (the Police Memorial Building was discussed but no firm vacancy date was provided). No formal council motion or vote was recorded in the meeting; the committee heard the staff plan and discussed potential temporary uses and parking coordination.