Add this to the ongoing progress report for downtown Globe: over the past six months Gila County has begun preparing the currently vacant downtown Michaelson Building for a major remodel, announcing this week a collaboration with city leaders to re-open as Globe’s first ‘co-workspace’ and business incubator. Remodeling interior office spaces and preparing for high-speed connectivity are next, thanks to a generous $150,000 grant from Freeport McMoran’s community investment funds. “This grant funds an innovative project to encourage new business and increase opportunity in Globe-Miami,” said Gila County Supervisor Tim Humphrey. “Restoring the Michaelson Building is one more sign of the vitality in our community; we’re committed to ongoing collaboration uniting Gila County and the City of Globe to create entrepreneurial work space and encourage innovation.” Located on South Broad Street ‘the Michaelson Building,’ is a 108-year-old 7,900 square foot two-story structure in the heart of historical downtown Globe, across from Holy Angels Church and next door to Vida e Caffe. In its long history it has housed many commercial-type business on the lower level and varied professional offices upstairs. Most recently It housed Gila County government offices, until roof leaks and structural issues from a prior remodel had left the building unsuitable to occupy. Gila County Facilities staff and Arizona Department of Corrections work crews are removing the weakened plaster ceilings and 100 years’ worth of electrical wiring and duct systems in preparation for roof structure repairs. What’s next? Globe Economic Development Director Linda Oddonetto explains: A coworking space with flex offices featuring high speed connectivity, community meeting rooms, and business support resources. This beautiful historic downtown building will be restored and put back into active use as the ideal location for our regional community business incubator. Inside will also be a downtown visitors information center. Oddonetto adds this development will be a business incubator, a downtown anchor helping to accelerate growth and support the success of startup businesses. The exciting new project will provide the workspace for the modern workforce. The City of Globe’s Economic Development Department hosted a business start-up ‘boot camp’ during the first quarter of 2019 , with three new businesses opening as a result. These and future business development programs will be featured at the coworkspace. “Our vision is to be a rural leader of a fresh emerging model to inspire the revitalization of a local economy; to nurture our creative and entrepreneurial community; and to empower our younger generation to grow here and attract more young creatives,” said Oddonetto.

Want to know more about the project, or economic development opportunities in downtown Globe?

Contact Linda Oddonetto at 928-961-3382 or email loddonetto@globeaz.gov