Explore the future of Armory Hall: Aspen to host open house on Oct. 4
Updates on Armory Hall redevelopment process, guided tours, live music, and food
Courtesy photo/The Aspen Historical Society
Community members and stakeholders are invited to an open house from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Armory Hall for a conversation around redevelopment of the historic landmark.
According to a press release, the open house will provide the public an opportunity to explore Armoy Hall for a final time before it undergoes transformation into a “vibrant community hub.” Guided tours of the building will provide historical insights and a firsthand glimpse into all considerations around what redevelopment could look like. The event will also feature catered food and live music.
“We encourage the entire community to gather in this historic space, offering the chance to review preliminary concepts, engage with our design team, and share your valuable input,” said Jennifer Phelan, development manager for the city’s capital asset department. “Public feedback and community outreach have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of this building, and this event serves as a check-in with the community to determine the way forward.”
Over the past year, city staff has conducted seven meetings with city council, with the most recent work session wrapping up June 5. Based on key findings gathered from community outreach efforts, the council reached the decision that the focus of Armory Hall should revolve around community use. The findings from community input determined specific areas of interest, including casual dining, a community center, versatile multi-purpose spaces, nonprofit services, and accessible retail options.
This fall, city staff and consultants are conducting a “test fit” as part of concept planning, aimed at figuring out the optimal square footage allocation for various potential uses. At the open house, attendees can anticipate the unveiling of conceptual designs and floor plans, providing a glimpse into the future of Armory Hall.
The current direction of the redevelopment project is said to be rooted in “extensive public outreach” and “robust community engagement,” which involved two online questionnaires, an open house, two focus group meetings, and surveys.
Based on that engagement, it was determined that the general consensus was the space would be best used as a central gathering place for the community.
After gathering public input from the open house and an online survey, staff will present to council in a work session on Nov. 13, where the board is expected to provide the following steps.
The Armory Hall remodel is currently estimated between $18 million and $23 million. For further information and updates, visit aspencommunityvoice.com.
To reach Jonson Kuhn, email him at jkuhn@aspentimes.com.
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