Clarksburg is on the verge of something extraordinary. After decades of watching our most iconic buildings sit silent, there is now real momentum behind breathing new life into the Waldo Hotel and the Goff Building.
At Thursday’s City Council meeting, members will consider measures that could bring both projects closer to reality — and they deserve applause for their willingness to think creatively. By opening the door to tax increment financing (TIF) reimbursements for the Waldo and negotiating a pathway for AP Development to acquire the Goff Building’s parking lots, council is sending a clear message: saving downtown is worth it.
These aren’t small projects. The Goff Building alone represents a $20 million investment to create new apartments and housing opportunities in the heart of the city. And while the Waldo Hotel will be at least that much or larger, and longer-term challenge, granting flexibility through TIF incentives gives its developers the runway needed to pursue a restoration that could transform it from a long-forgotten landmark into a beacon of progress.
What makes these steps so encouraging is that council didn’t simply say “yes” or “no” to the developers’ requests. They found outside-the-box solutions to fuel the development. They worked through property transfers, creative financing tools, and inter-agency cooperation to ensure these projects can move forward. That kind of problem-solving is exactly what downtown Clarksburg needs.
Revitalization doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen without leadership. By supporting these efforts, City Council is laying the foundation for a more vibrant future — one where historic architecture is preserved, new residents are drawn downtown, and businesses can grow alongside them. I for one want to show my support for these efforts and encourage council to keep looking at every creative idea possible to make these projects move smoothly. Public has to help push private in projects like these. Every idea and every tool in the toolbox should be on the table when deals this big are happening. Don’t stop looking for ways to help.
Our city’s story has always been tied to the Waldo and the Goff. Now, thanks to forward-thinking action, the next chapter can finally begin. To our city manager, council members and staff: thank you for believing in downtown Clarksburg. Keep the fresh ideas coming — our community is ready to support you.
I am most critical when council is not making big moves, this is the opposite of that. They are making huge moves. I am hyped to see what they come up with next. The momentum feels unbelievable.
– Gary Keith
