Lancaster church to become mixed-use community space after $4 million overhaul

LANCASTER, Ohio (WCMH) -- A historic Lancaster church will undergo a $4 million transformation to become "a dynamic mixed-use facility" with a co-working space, a makers kitchen and restaurant, and new retail opportunities.

The project will transform Mills Memorial Church at 402 N. Broad St., founded in 1898 and last used for worship in 2019. Backed by a $700,000 JobsOhio Vibrant Community Grant, the redevelopment aims to honor the nearly 125-year legacy of the church, "while creating a dynamic space that serves Lancaster's 40,000 residents," a news release said.

"The Mills Memorial Church has stood in Lancaster for well over a century, and I commend the community's vision and the partnerships created to renew and transform this historic structure," said Gov. Mike DeWine in the release. "The revitalization of the Mills Memorial church will serve future generations by restoring an important part of Lancaster's heritage while creating opportunities that will attract jobs and commercial activity downtown."

Once completed, the building's co-working space will be Lancaster's first, the release said, while the makers kitchen will give food-based startups access to the tools and certifications they need to scale their operations. Alongside new retail and dining, "these additions will bring more activity downtown and create better opportunities for residents and visitors."

The redevelopment project marks a collaboration between Columbus-based real estate firm Trivium Development, the city of Lancaster, the Lancaster Port Authority, Destination Downtown Lancaster, One Columbus at the Columbus Partnership and JobsOhio.

"We are thrilled to bring such an exciting project to Lancaster," said Tim Spencer, president of Trivium. "Revitalizing this historic church into a place for innovation, dining and community gathering is both a privilege and an opportunity to contribute to the city's momentum. We believe this space will quickly become a centerpiece for Lancaster's growing downtown."

"Lancaster is on the rise," said Lancaster Mayor Don McDaniel. "By transforming this historic landmark into a hub for entrepreneurs and community activity, we are honoring our past while building a vibrant future."

It's unclear when the redevelopment will finish construction and reopen as the mixed-use facility.