Aspen City Council unanimously approved a $44.7 million construction contract for the Armory Hall Adaptive Reuse Project at its June 23 meeting, launching a $60.7 million total renovation that will transform the historic building into a community gathering space.
Council approved four resolutions on the consent calendar authorizing Shaw Construction’s guaranteed maximum price of $44,684,905, owner’s representative services with Concept One Group ($342,255), construction administration with CCY Architects ($1,732,160), and city manager authority to approve change orders within a $6,962,559 owner-held contingency. Construction begins July 2026, with final completion targeted for November 2028.
During discussion, Council Member Bill Guth called the project “extraordinarily expensive” but said the adaptive reuse represents “the highest and best use for the community.” He requested quarterly written updates on contingency spending. Senior Project Manager Ben Levenson confirmed staff would provide them. Deputy City Manager Tyler Christoph, filling in for City Manager Pete Strecker, noted the project requires internal financing through a loan from the Arts and Culture Fund. The 2027-2028 funding request stands at $42,776,387.
Council also unanimously approved first reading of Ordinance 11, Version B — a fee deferral program for qualified local homeowners seeking building permits. Staff recommended no action, finding that waiving or deferring fees for free-market redevelopment does not clearly meet the community benefit standard required by the Aspen Area Community Plan. Council members debated the distinction between “qualified local” and “longtime local,” ultimately directing staff to use ASPSHA residency and work-hour requirements as the qualifying standard. The ordinance moves to Planning and Zoning and the Historic Preservation Commission before returning for second reading.
In a public hearing, Council considered Ordinance 12, second reading, establishing one Transferable Development Right certificate for 406 W. Smuggler Street, with architect Kim Raymond representing the property owner.
Mayor Pro Tem John Doyle presided in Mayor Rachael Richards’ absence. Council also issued proclamations marking the Aspen Pedestrian Mall’s 50th anniversary and designating July 1 in perpetuity as Albert Schweitzer Day of Service. Parks and Recreation Director Austin Weiss invited the public to the MallFest 50 Art Parade on June 28.
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