The city of Hastings knows that as they look to the future of the downtown area it's important to preserve the past. That's why the Farrell block project plays such a key role in the downtown Hastings Revitalization plan.

The oldest building in downtown Hastings is the Farrell Block building. It was constructed in 1880 and it's the last structure standing that was built with stone.

Local historian Elizabeth Spilinek said the importance of having this building renovated is that it connects Hastings to it's past.

"When citizens learn about their past they feel more connected to the community and thus more committed to investing in it which will in the long run strengthen our community," said Spilinek

One of the project developers Josh Yost said the the other two retail spots are filled with new stores and upstairs, all 5 of the condos are completed. And the developers went to great lenght to retain the original integrity of the building.

"As far as the old efficiency apartments that were up here, you can tell by all the doors, that we retained that for the historical preservation," said Yost

Randy Chick of the Business Improvement District said this 2-year project is the icing on the cake for his group.

"To take a 5,000 area square feet of second floor space that was dilapidated and hadn't been utilized effectively since probably the 50's and now you have 5 very high end modern units up here that command good rents," said Chick

Chick and Spilinek believe this type of renovation springs new optimism in the potential of downtown Hastings.

"This has really shown I think both downtown people, investors, and the rest of the community what can take place if you've got the right direction and creative ideas and a little money to back you up," said Chick

"This is an important project for our whole community because it's going to serve as a catalyst for other restoration projects and it's serving to energize this area of the downtown," Spilinek

If you would like to take a closer look at some of the renovations, there will be an upper level living tour on October 8 from 5 to 8 p.m.