The City of Batavia is considering the future of the 134-year-old Tin Shop building at 106 N. River Street after high costs have thwarted attempts to redevelop the deteriorating structure.

Now the city is looking to relocate or demolish the building.

Key points:

• Historic significance: Built in 1890, the Tin Shop is part of Batavia’s downtown historic district, requiring a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) before any relocation or demolition.

• Condition and challenges: Years of vacancy and a leaking roof have left the building in poor condition, with safety concerns highlighted during a recent tour by the Historic Preservation Commission.

• Redevelopment efforts: Since purchasing the building in 2017 as part of a larger acquisition, the city has explored multiple redevelopment plans, including mixed-use projects and rehabilitation proposals.

• Next steps: The city plans to market the building to find a party interested in relocating it. Demolition would be the next choice if no viable option emerges — including efforts to save historic materials from the property.

The COA recommendation will move to the City Council for possible final approval in January.

Learn more in this Shaw Local article.

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