In the early 1980’s, since the redevelopment of the waterfront was an important goal, Swiss Bear zeroed in on another key three acre tract of prime waterfront property adjacent to Union Point Park and the Sheraton property. The site housed a vacant gas station and unused bulk storage tanks that the Texaco Corporation had owned and tried to sell for many years. When the City voiced an interest in purchasing the property, listed for $800,000, Swiss Bear members lobbied for the property through contacts with Texaco board members. They also solicited assistance from the governor.
When Texaco officials accepted the invitation to visit the City, community leaders extended a warm welcome and shared New Bern’s revitalization and waterfront redevelopment plans. This led to Texaco’s request for an appraisal of the property which was provided by the City government. Over a period of months, the purchase price dropped from $800,000 to $250,000 to an outright donation of 1.2 acres to the City and the sale of .8 acres to Swiss Bear for $15,000. Upon removal of the fuel storage tanks and demolition of the deteriorated gas station, the land was annexed and developed as a part of Union Point Park.
Susan Moffat Thomas
Executive Director
That's pretty cool.
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