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City outlines plan to move and renovate Raven Fullen House; staff estimates ~$550,000
Summary
Council heard a report that the Raven Fullen House has been offered to the city; staff said a structural evaluation is planned, the move can occur about 90 days after a signed contract, and a full renovation could cost roughly $550,000 to $600,000 depending on unseen floor issues.
City staff updated council on plans for the Raven Fullen House, an historic structure that a private owner offered to give the city. Staff said the house would be moved to a site owned by the Montgomery Economic Development Corporation and repurposed as office or retail space.
Staff reported a timeline of roughly 90 days from contract signature to the physical move of the house. A structural engineer will perform a closer inspection of the building’s understructure before relocation. "If we do all of the things that we believe and there's nothing wrong with the floors, the project could come in around $550,000," staff said, adding that costs could rise toward $600,000 if additional floor or foundation work is required.
Council discussed the intended reuse (welcome center, MEEDC office or retail), parking and utility routing. Staff said many interior walls are load‑bearing so the renovation approach will preserve the exterior look while installing modern systems and accessible entries; the porch will be replaced to meet ADA requirements.
Council asked staff to continue the engineering assessment and return with a firm cost estimate and schedule prior to any contract execution or capital commitment. Staff said the EDC will also review the matter in its upcoming meeting.
