On Friday, the city sent out a press release announcing that the acquisition of the former U.S. Forest Service building in Ogden has been completed.

“Constructed in 1934, this architectural landmark will now serve as a vital hub within the Nine Rails Creative District, reinforcing the city’s commitment to historic preservation, cultural vibrancy, and quality housing,” the release said. “In December 2024, Ogden City’s Redevelopment Agency Board (RDA), approved the purchase of the building at 507 25th Street for $3.6 million as part of an effort to sustain Ogden’s unique character while strengthening the surrounding neighborhood. The RDA’s purchase of the building is funded by tax increment financing (TIF) from the Adams Community Reinvestment Area. TIF represents the new property tax revenues generated by development and investments in the area.”

In December, the Standard-Examiner reported that recommended plans include:

• Making the structure a mixed-use space that offers affordable housing and workspace “targeted to creative and entrepreneurial residents.”
• Providing “collaborative studio space” on the building’s main level as well as room for artists or performances in the basement.
• Approximately 40-50 residential housing units for families making 65% of the area median income.
• Use of a perpetual housing fund to help build wealth for residents.
• Parking in a nearby lot and art pieces adjacent to the building.

“After the General Service Administration declared the building surplus federal property, it became available for purchase by the Ogden City RDA. With a vision of adapting the vacant structure into a hub for creativity, the city has partnered with Giv Group, a developer known for sustainable and community-driven housing projects,” Friday’s release continued. “Wadman Corporation and Sanders Associates Architecture are collaborating with Giv Group to transform this landmark into a dynamic community space in Ogden’s downtown area.”

The release said that other entities have been working to make sure the 53,000-square-foot Art Deco building retains its character well into the future.

“For over a year and a half, Preservation Utah worked closely with the General Services Administration to place a preservation easement on the Forest Service Building, ensuring its historic integrity will be safeguarded in perpetuity,” the release said. “Preservation easements are one of the most effective tools for protecting historic properties, as they create a legally binding agreement that prevents future alterations or demolitions that would compromise a building’s character. This measure guarantees that the Forest Service Building will continue to serve as a testament to Ogden’s architectural heritage for generations to come.”

Also in the press release, Mayor Ben Nadolski said a preservation project like this is especially important to the city and the neighborhood in which the building resides.

“Preserving the historic nature and uniqueness of the Forest Service Building is important to this city, to our future,” he said. “It’s exciting to bring this space back to life and transform its purpose as a place to foster creativity. As we build out the Nine Rails Creative District, the entire community will benefit from a thriving center for art, culture, and innovation.”

Sara Meess, Ogden’s economic development director, told the Standard-Examiner on Monday that next steps include the RDA working closely with Giv Group to finalize plans for the reuse and renovation of the building.