Historic Michaelson Building renovation advances with council approval of exterior design plans

By Bob Hembree

Renovation of the historic Michaelson Building in downtown Globe moved another step forward Dec. 9 as the City Council approved exterior design plans for the project, acting in its role as the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission.

The council unanimously approved a design review request submitted by GH2 Architects for exterior renovations to the two-story building at 157 S. Broad Street, which lies within Globe’s historic overlay district. The approval included new windows, awnings, façade repairs, and a steel canopy with signage, and the council waived the prior discussion rule to allow immediate action. 

Exterior changes advance long-planned project

The design review represents a visible milestone in a long-running city-county partnership to repurpose the Michaelson Building into a regional business incubator, coworking space, and workforce development center, while preserving the building’s historic character.

City-county partnership and funding

Earlier this year, the council approved a professional services contract with GH2 Architects to begin full architectural and engineering design work for the renovation. That contract followed interior demolition and environmental abatement work overseen by Gila County, which retains ownership of the building under an intergovernmental agreement with the city. 

Under the agreement, Gila County manages overall project coordination and retains ownership of the property, while the City of Globe is responsible for permitting, inspections, and construction oversight. Any design changes or field modifications require joint approval from city and county project managers.

Funding for the renovation reflects a layered approach developed over several years. Previous investments include roof replacement, interior demolition, and environmental abatement funded through county resources, federal programs, and private contributions. The renovation phase is supported by Congressionally Directed Spending awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, along with matching funds from the city, county, and private partners.

Federal requirements and historic preservation

Because federal funds are involved, the project is subject to a Notice of Federal Interest, which requires the property to remain in public service and restricts sale or repurposing of the building without federal approval.

City and county officials have said the renovated Michaelson Building is intended to support economic development by providing flexible workspace for startups, small businesses, and workforce training programs. Staff noted that while the exterior elements modernize the building’s functionality, the design remains consistent with historic overlay standards.

Next steps toward construction

The exterior approval allows the design team to move forward with final construction drawings following completion of interior abatement and demolition. Once plans are finalized, the project is expected to go out to bid.

City officials described the renovation as part of a broader downtown revitalization strategy, linking historic preservation with economic development and reinvestment in the Broad Street corridor.