A long-vacant downtown landmark is back in use as the former Pantagraph print building at 217 W. Jefferson Street reopens following a city-supported redevelopment effort.
The project, led by local developers Robert Vericella and Robert Vericella II through Green Building LLC, has transformed the space into a mixed-use destination. The first floor now houses 8 Bit Arcade Bar, a retro-themed venue combining classic games with a social atmosphere that is already drawing steady foot traffic.
Plans for the upper floors include a new home for The Hockey Foundry, which will relocate and expand its operations with a synthetic ice training facility for year-round skill development. City leaders say the redevelopment reflects a broader push to revive underused downtown properties, with additional projects—including the former State Farm and CVS buildings—also moving forward to bring housing, dining, and retail space back to the area.
