Historic Gilbert Building set for restoration after devastating fire

The Gilbert Building, a 124-year-old historic structure in downtown, is undergoing a transformation after being gutted by a fire on June 6, 2024. The cause of the fire was never determined, and the city had planned to demolish the building. However, new co-owners Chris Richardson and Rob Fusilli purchased it from Tom Flanagan with plans to convert it into office and retail space.

Richardson, co-owner of The Long Star Rigging, shared an exclusive look at the restoration efforts. "We're going to finish securing the building. We are going to go ahead and try to roof it out just to get it dry, and probably start putting some windows in there," he said. The demolition phase is nearing completion, and the team is preparing to transition into the next phase of restoration once plans are approved by the Jefferson County Historical Commission.

Richardson expressed his motivation for the project, saying, "Motivation for the building was just to preserve the downtown environment. We've got some great buildings down here, wonderful architecture." He hopes the Gilbert Building's restoration will inspire similar efforts for other historic buildings in downtown Beaumont. The new owners anticipate completing the project by the end of the year, with tenants moving in shortly thereafter.
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