A historic Anaconda building could again be a shining light for the business community.
A state grant will be used to study whether the vacant Electric Light Building, Main and Commercial, is suitable for a proposed brewery and upstairs housing.
The building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, was noted for being illuminated by a string of lights after Anaconda became one of the first electrified cities in Montana. In recent years it has fallen into disrepair.
“The big challenge is going to be to get the building in shape,” said owner Gary Carlson, who will partner with his son, Luke, on the project.
The $17,615 grant for the study will be matched by $11,500 from Carlson.
“It’s a big step toward beginning to restore that corner of Main and Commercial,” said Anaconda Local Development Corp. Executive Director Jim Davison. “It goes back into the heart of the community.”
Until the assessment is completed, plans for the brewery, apartments, and perhaps an art gallery and other retail or office space are tenuous.
“Once that study is done, then we can put together a business plan,” Carlson said.