The intersection of E. Front Street and N. Central Ave. in Laurel once had three gas stations. Two of those three properties are now being developed by the Laurel Redevelopment Corporation (LRC).
The former gas station and bait and tackle store (201 N. Central Ave.), now called Central Station, has been rebuilt through the Downtown Development District program. LRC purchased the property in the mid 90s.
Pictured is the historic Rosemont house, which is currently being renovated. Photo by Mike McClure
The building was in decline and LRC recently decided to tear it down. The remodel included keeping some of the building’s old architectural features such as a front column and overhang. There is also a wrap around deck overlooking Broad Creek.
During the construction process underground fuel tanks were found, causing a delay.
LRC is looking for a business to rent the building. Interior work will be done once a tenant is found.
Across the street from the Central Station is the Thompson lot, a former brownfield property that is also a former gas station. Seven abandoned tanks were also found on this property.
The clean up process was started through the help of DNREC after LRC bought the property and tore down the building. The cleanup process is almost complete.
According to LRC Executive Director/Property Manager Brian Shannon, the company has a business startup that wants to locate there.
The historic Rosemont house is also undergoing some work. A new, historically correct Wood Cedar Shake roof is being put on. The chimneys on the north and south ends were also rebuilt.
Currently, work is being done to rebuild the front columns and the second story porch. Shannon said interior demolition is also being done.
Editor’s note: This story is the second of three stories on construction taking place in the town of Laurel.
