By Peaches Anderson

Columbus will soon bid a bittersweet goodbye to the beloved Spaghetti Warehouse building, a cherished landmark that holds countless fond memories for many in the community. This transition marks the end of an era, evoking nostalgia for those who have enjoyed its warm atmosphere and unique charm over the years.

Seems like yesterday when I was seated at a beautiful table with an iconic picnic tablecloth. The authentic taste of the Italian meatball on my fork both drew me to the future and pulled me to the past, much like the train in the middle of the warehouse with guests seated inside. As I looked at the current pictures and took a virtual tour of the building in its current state, I couldn’t help but feel much like the survivors of the Titanic. I was able to navigate through the destruction to where I once sat and where I shared laughter and happy feelings with my family and remember the perfection of the establishment in perfect detail.

Reality has set in and acceptance is a must because the plans to demolish the historic Spaghetti Warehouse building are moving forward, as state officials have announced significant financial support aimed at both demolition and revitalization efforts in the area.

Earlier this year, in January, developers approached the Downtown Commission with proposals to take down the Spaghetti Warehouse, nestled at 397 W. Broad St. Originally, the plan envisioned a new apartment complex with 534 units and a large parking garage for 577 vehicles. However, the commission recently approved a revised version that significantly reduces the scale of the project to 235 residential units and 182 parking spaces.

Spearheaded by notable local figures such as Robert Weiler of the Robert Weiler Company, Pat Kelley of Kelley Companies, and Doug Pak, the owner of the Spaghetti Warehouse, the project epitomizes a deep commitment to the community. In a heartfelt letter to the commission in September, developers shared their concerns about the building’s condition, noting that it suffered a partial roof collapse in 2022. They emphasized that the structure has grown “simply too old and unsafe and needs to be taken down.”

In their correspondence, the owners expressed a genuine wish to preserve and restore the historic Spaghetti Warehouse if it were financially feasible. “As the current owners of 397 W. Broad St., we would much prefer to save and restore the former Spaghetti Warehouse building and would do so if it was economically viable,” they shared. “Safety is the reason why we are demolishing this building,” they emphasized, highlighting the responsibility to address safety concerns for the community.

Before any demolition can begin, the developers must submit a comprehensive site plan along with a detailed historic building survey report, which will be evaluated for compliance with the commission’s guidelines. If these documents meet the established criteria, the commission will grant a certificate allowing the owners to apply for the necessary demolition permit.

The updated plans reveal aspirations to build two new structures on the site. One of the proposed buildings will house 125 residential units with 88 parking spaces, while the other will accommodate 110 units and 94 parking spaces. Additionally, the developers hope to incorporate retail space into parts of the first building, with the goal of enriching the vibrancy of the area.

In a notable development, on October 15, just a week before the commission approved the revised plans, the state Department of Development announced a substantial $52 million allocation for brownfield remediation and demolition projects across the state, with the Spaghetti Warehouse demolition included among these important initiatives.

The Spaghetti Warehouse, known for its unique collection of streetcar memorabilia and its expansive dining experience in the Franklinton neighborhood, has continued to welcome patrons Downtown, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity amidst the impending changes. As the community prepares to say goodbye to this iconic establishment, there is an understanding of the mixed feelings that accompany such significant transitions.

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