The project is expected to create approximately 650 temporary construction jobs and approximately 700 permanent jobs over the compliance period.
UACD provided funding for Wexford Science and Technology’s conversion of the 284,000 SF Chesterfield building into a center of gravity for the emerging entrepreneurial ecosystem in downtown. The Chesterfield building was originally constructed in 1948 as a cigarette manufacturing factory for the Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company, which utilized the facility until it moved production outside of downtown Durham in 1999. Although this prominent building is located in a revitalizing district with numerous converted warehouses, and on a major east-west artery connecting Duke Medical Center, Duke East Campus and downtown, The Chesterfield has presented a significant challenge for redevelopment given its square shape and limited parking. To address this challenge, Wexford is constructing a large internal atrium which, along with new windows and storefronts, increases the amount of natural light in work spaces, enhances the building’s street presence, and provides spaces for collaboration, networking and events. In addition, Wexford will construct a new parking deck nearby to serve the building’s 700 expected employees.
