Many local residents will recall its days as the home of Montgomery Ward & Company or Gately's Furniture. Others may even remember some of its earliest occupants, such as the Hawley & Fitzgerald Dry Goods Store, Fitzgerald & Musial Company, Larsen Furniture, or Musial & Mathison Company.

Over the last decade, there have been many other successful businesses which have been located at The Center Building. Their owners have all been committed to downtown Alpena and have shared a vision of revival in this unique section of our city.

This revival is taking place! It can be seen in the new store starting up and existing ones being improved; in the tourist and residents shopping, eating, or strolling in the area; and in a community rediscovering one of its greatest treasures.

It also can be seen at The Center Building itself, which has undergone a dramatic restoration project since being purchased in December 1997 by The Center Building, L.L.C.

The interior space, which features retail shops on the first floor and offices on the second, third and lower levels, has had original hardwood floors and tin ceilings restored, as well as significant heating, air conditioning and electrical upgrades done.

The exterior has also been renovated, with care taken to ensure safety, durability and energy efficiency while restoring the building's original historical character and architectural detailing.