Unoccupied bank building gets new life

By Betsy Levinson betsy@theconcordbridge.org
February 16, 2023

A new business submitted plans to occupy the former bank building on Walden Street, which has stood idle for the last seven years.

Keller Williams Realty Boston Northwest plans to remodel and move into the brick building, adding a second story by raising the roof almost five feet and increasing the floor area. Additionally, plans show a white clapboard facade and reduced pavement for parking in the back where the site borders Mill Brook.

At a recent Planning Board meeting, developers of the site sought relief from parking requirements and site plan approval to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

With the removal of 25 feet of pavement along Mill Brook, developers say the plan will be a net improvement by adding more recharge capacity. The building will have heat pumps to handle heating and cooling and new windows.

The site is between the 51 Walden Performing Arts Center on one side and a private residence on the other. Night lighting will be as unobtrusive as possible, developers say. There are no solar panels shown on the building.

Two members of the board encouraged the owners to consider installing an electric vehicle charging station for the 20 or so spaces that real estate agents will occupy. The current plan does not include one. 

The board will revisit the plan for a possible recommendation at its meeting on Feb. 21.