MISHAWAKA, Ind. — Local commercial real estate group Cressy has made a major move to a new headquarters occupying the second floor of the former police station in Mishawaka.
The new space not only accommodates the company’s future growth, but also signals the future development of downtown.
“Downtown is kind of exploding,” said Noah Davey, a partner at Cressey Commercial Real Estate. “We removed things like prison cells and holding cells, but we also pay homage to the history of the building.”
Nestled along Mishawaka’s riverfront boardwalk, the reimagined space offers the opportunity for potential neighbors to be built next door, bringing vibrancy to the property.
“This fits in really well with everything that’s going on downtown,” explains Jeff Rea, CEO of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This space will see new housing, new offices, new retail and some public uses.”
The city has already been built along the riverside promenade, and new developments such as factories are underway.
A designated outdoor refreshment area to attract more nightlife is also being discussed.
And there’s still room for business in the old police station, with the vacant space on the first floor calling for a restaurant.
“It was a bit of a joke because there was some good activity from some well-known local celebrities, but ultimately the deal didn’t go through,” Davey said.
“I’d be surprised if someone doesn’t take advantage of this space and build a great space for people to come and enjoy,” Rea predicts.
For the Cressy team, who celebrate their move-in and 75th anniversary in one day, this is the home they have long coveted.
“Some people in the company meet every two to three months, but now that we’re all under one roof, we see each other almost every day,” Davey says.
There have been rumors that a wine bar could occupy the ground floor space, but Davey says he can’t confirm or deny those rumors at this time.