Architects presented a detailed feasibility update to the Pocatello City Council on Thursday regarding the potential relocation of municipal operations to the historic Federal Building.
Whitney Ward, a principal with VCBO Architecture, told council members that the firm expects to complete its cost estimate in approximately two weeks. The final report, including full cost figures and recommendations, is scheduled for presentation at a city work session in November.
Feasibility and Structural Assessment
The city hired VCBO Architecture to conduct a feasibility analysis of the 1916 structure located at 150 S. Arthur Ave. The firm provided architectural blueprints and a slideshow presentation during the work session, marking the first detailed look at floor plans since a public open house in July.
The architects confirmed that all municipal departments fit within the building and that the structure is sound. Department heads sized their space requirements to accommodate ten years of projected growth. The planned City Hall would total 41,321 square feet, an increase from the current facility at 911 N. Seventh Ave., which measures 37,889 square feet.
An independent estimator is currently pricing construction costs. These estimates include hazardous-material abatement, renovation work, stair towers, seismic upgrades, utilities, and building systems. A separate estimate will cover the purchase price, design, engineering, furniture, and equipment.
Proposed Floor Plan
The presentation outlined a specific layout for municipal operations:
- Ground Floor: Council chambers would occupy the former mail sorting room. This level would also house a public lobby, community room, human resources, utility billing, and a security station.
- Second Floor: Engineering departments.
- Third Floor: Finance, legal, and the mayor’s office.
- Basement: IT and maintenance operations.
Renovation and Seismic Upgrades
The building’s existing systems are in poor condition. The facility retains original coal-fired boilers and lacks sprinklers. The renovation plan includes replacing plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, fire alarm, and security systems.
Additional improvements include adding sprinklers, a backup generator, and stair towers to meet exit requirements. Accessible ramps would be added to the main and staff entrances, and the elevator and restrooms would be upgraded.
While current seismic codes do not require upgrades, the firm recommends them. Seismic upgrades will be priced item by item, allowing the city to choose among various options. Historic elements, including the facade, lobbies, corridors, terrazzo floors, windows, and light fixtures, would be preserved where feasible.
Parking Challenges
Parking remains a primary concern for the relocation. The Federal Building site currently has 48 parking stalls: 40 in a lot and eight street spaces. A minimum of 108 stalls is required to meet municipal needs.
Talks have begun with nearby property owners to establish shared agreements that would supply more than 70 additional stalls within a three-minute walk. Potential shared lots include properties northwest and southwest of the building, as well as Union Pacific lots near Main Street.
Architects recommended utilizing shared lots over constructing a parking structure due to cost and site size constraints. A public-private garage could be considered later if downtown activity grows.
Funding and Economic Impact
An economic assessment estimated that annual spending by employees and visitors would rise from approximately $547,000 to more than $1 million downtown if the move proceeds.
Mayor Mark Dahlquist stated that issuing a bond would be his last choice for funding the project. He suggested the city could purchase the building first and renovate as money allows.
Before November, architects will provide recommendations on seismic upgrades, final cost figures, and a rendering of the council chamber.