Deconstruction of the historic Brice Train Depot has begun at its current location in Upper Arlington. The depot will be relocated and reconstructed in Plain City, where it will become the centerpiece of the Public Square at the corner of East Bigelow Avenue and Church Street.
(Photo submitted)
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Officials from the Village of Plain City announced that work began on The Depot at Public Square.
Crews from Outdoor FX and the village recently began dismantling the historic Brice Train Depot at its current location in Upper Arlington in preparation to relocate and reconstruct it in Plain City this summer.
Council voted in March to approve a contract with Outdoor FX to complete the depot relocation for $160,270.
At the time, Village Administrator Haley Lupton said the local company does similar work and has an employee on staff that restores historic buildings on the side.
Village officials said the interior of the depot is being carefully disassembled with components being moved into temporary storage.
Elements of the depot including flooring, walls, windows and doors will be preserved and reincorporated, while extra furnishings will be auctioned at a later date.
The brick patio, including pavers and railroad ties, encircling the train depot was dismantled and transported to Plain City. It will be reinstalled followed the reconstruction of the depot.
Officials said site preparation at the new location is underway.
Crews have removed fencing and will soon begin site leveling to allow the construction of a new foundation and the installation of utilities.
Officials noted that the exact date for the depot’s opening to the public is not yet finalized, but is anticipated for late fall or early winter.
The Depot will be the centerpiece of a new community park called the Public Square, located at the corner of East Bigelow Avenue and Church Street.
Officials said the area will eventually include amenities such as outdoor green spaces, a splash pad, children’s play area, fire pit and seating areas. They also hope to repurpose an existing garage into an outdoor marketplace for seasonal vendors and community events.
Planning for the additional amenities beyond The Depot is still underway.