For sale: Historic North Side fire station

Minneapolis officials are seeking development ideas for a somewhat unique property in north Minneapolis: A 74-year-old former fire station.

The fire department stopped using the station on 33rd and James Avenues after a new one was built on Lowry Avenue in 2006. The city solicited proposals for the site on Wednesday, particularly those that would convert it into small-scale retail, commercial or office space.

The city won't accept proposals to demolish the building, however.

The station lies in one of the most economically depressed segments of the city in the Folwell neighborhood. The 2011 tornado severely damaged many houses in the surrounding area, as well as the street trees.

The city estimated that the estimated market value of the .38 acre site is $230,000. Proposals must be submitted by February 26.

Converted fire houses abound in Minneapolis. Examples include the Mixed Blood Theatre in Cedar-Riverside, a condo on 35th and Hennepin and Harriet Brasserie in Linden Hills.

If you're curious, there's an entire website dedicated to former Minneapolis fire stations.