There would be 61 housing units on the top four levels, withoffice space and other uses on the lower two floors. The agency,which has an option to buy the 100-year-old building, plans toclose the deal by year's end. The project is expected to becompleted by the end of next year.

Completed in 1904, the building is part of St. Paul's LowertownHistoric District, which is listed on the National Register ofHistoric Places. It was designed by the renowned Reed & Stemarchitecture firm, which also designed the St. Paul Hotel here andGrand Central Station in New York City. The building has beenvacant for 30 years.

"This plan aligns with the city's goals to ensure housing forall income levels," says CCHT senior project manager Kirk Moorhead.The 36 efficiencies and 25 one-bedroom apartments will serve peopleearning 30% to 50% of the area median income. The building willalso provide about 10,500 sf of commercial space.