Purpose: Good Work Network strives to build an economically strong small business community with the renovation of The Franz Building, a 100-year-old historic building on Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in Central City. Development plans for the property are underway with a three-fold purpose: (1) to restore an historic building, (2) to provide affordable retail space that will contribute to the revitalization of Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard; and (3) to anchor business development and incubation services in the Central City neighborhood. Project completion is expected in June 2010.  

Vision: The vision for the project is to return commerce to the corridor in a way that engages and supports rather than displaces the community. With affordable rents, The Franz Building will allow opportunities for success to budding entrepreneurs. The project aims to create a unique and sustainable development model that is often not achieved by other development schemes: to keep the property in the hands of and affordable to the community.

 contribute to this revitalization by creating retail storefronts that will help restore Oretha Castle Haley to the vibrant commercial corridor it once was.

Good Work Network: : Founded in 2001, Good Work Network is a micro enterprise development organization. Its mission is to expand the local economy by building minority and women owned businesses. Since its inception, Good Work Network has assisted 1,200 individuals, 92% of whom are African American, 77% female, and 68% low-income. Over 225 businesses have been started or strengthened and clients have acquired over $1,500,000 in business capital with Good Work Network’s assistance. Good Work Network has an established relationship with the neighborhood and community and believes in a coordinated approach in community problem solving and economic development. Good Work Network is working with numerous community partners to ensure that the renovation of The Franz Building is completed in line with the vision of the street.

The Building: The property is a 6,800 sq. ft. one-story building. There are eight window bays along the front under an awning. The building has been nominated as a historic landmark and the architectural integrity will remain in tact as it is renovated. The renovated building will house the expanded offices of Good Work Network’s development and business incubation services and four retail bays to be leased to selected businesses that contribute to the vitality of the community.  

Historical Significance: Historically, Oretha Castle Haley was an important commercial corridor, housing over 200 businesses at its peak during the 1940’s and 1950’s. It was also one of the first racially-mixed shopping areas in the city. Though the street has fallen into decline, it is poised for revitalization due to a number of key anchor projects and active community involvement. The Franz Building project will