Deal reached to save one of the state’s most endangered buildings

An agreement has been reached that supporters say will result in the renovation and future use of the historic Staats Hospital building on Charleston’s West Side.

The agreement between the Bullock family, Charleston Urban Renewal Authority, Charleston Area Alliance, the state and a local bank will result in a $520,000 project to purchase the building and secure it by putting in new windows and replacing the roof.

Kanawha County Commissioner Dave Hardy said he anticipates the first floor to be ready for small retail and office space by November. He said renovation of the other floors could provide much-needed office space in the Elk City area of the West Side.

The Staats building has been listed as Charleston’s most endangered structures. It was built in 1932 and was the first building designed in West Virginia by an African American architect.

Commissioner Hardy said the deal includes $80,000 from the Bullock family, an $80,000 loan from CURA, a $155,000 loan from First Bank of Charleston, $15,000 from the Charleston Area Alliance and two state grants totaling $40,000.