by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
A “jewel” and “terrific opportunity” are ways Pamela Smith, owners representative for Elad National Realty, describes Downtown’s AT&T Tower.
“This building has become a family jewel for Elad,” said Smith.
Elad purchased the building in 2004.
Six years ago, the building was fully leased but things have changed since then. About two years ago AT&T began downsizing and CSX, the building’s other major tenant, recently made the decision to relocate its operations to another Downtown building.
That meant for the first time since the tower opened in 1983, tenants in need of single floors of space have the option to lease at 301 W. Bay St.
“This is an opportunity that has never before existed. We can offer anything from 2,000 square feet to 200,000 square feet. Not many properties have that much contiguous space,” said Smith. “My vision is to mix and match smaller and large tenants. That’s very healthy for a building.”
She said that vision includes “bringing the building back into focus for the business community and the general community.”
More than $2 million in building renovations and upgrades – from new Italian floor tiles to new light fixtures in the ceilings – will be completed.
One thing that won’t change is the building’s distinctive design, which also has implications for the interior.
“We’re the only building with 16 corner offices on every floor,” said Smith. “Doesn’t every partner in your firm deserve a corner office?”
The lobby is also being upgraded with tree lights in the building’s courtyard that will illuminate the exterior of the tower at night.
“We think that would really help the ambiance Downtown,” said Smith.
She also said the building’s proximity to the new County Courthouse and the availability of Class-A office space Downtown creates even more opportunities.
“It’s an opportunity for firms who wish to relocate and it’s an opportunity for a building owner, too. We’re going to be very competitive and our lease rates are aggressive. It’s all based on supply and demand.
“Our mission is to reposition the building in the marketplace and also to help promote Downtown as the place to live, work and play,” said Smith.
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