Sanford will celebrate the renovation of the historic Sanford Depot Building at 3 p.m. on May 18, the city announced today. The event will be held at 106 Charlotte Avenue and is open to the public.
The celebration will feature remarks from local officials and a ribbon cutting. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the building’s remodeled interior through guided tours.
A cornerstone of Sanford’s roots as a railroad town, the Depot has undergone a comprehensive renovation led by Traub Architecture + Design, Inc., with construction by Critical Path Solutions. The project was made possible through a combination of public investment and community support, including federal recovery funds, state infrastructure funding, and generous private donations.
Contractors worked with structural engineers to implement modern solutions, such as installing interior perimeter drainage systems, sump pumps, and dehumidification equipment, as well as encapsulating the crawl space. Damaged floor joists and decking were replaced with materials that will withstand heavy use while retaining the look of the original structure.
Many of the upgrades achieved the City’s goal of retaining the building’s character. For example, contractors were able to restore a previously hidden original fireplace and the shingled roof was replaced with historically appropriate tile. Flashing, gutters, and downspouts were replaced with copper. Even the building’s windows were returned to historical accuracy.
During the event, the Railroad House Museum will be open to visitors. Local historian Hunter Randolph will present a collection of photographs showcasing the Depot’s storied past, offering a deeper look into Sanford’s transportation heritage.
“The Depot Building is the centerpiece of downtown,” said Mayor Rebecca Salmon. “This renovation honors our past while creating new opportunities for the future. It reflects our community’s commitment to preserving this landmark for generations to come.”
— Story courtesy of the City of Sanford
