Balise Auto Group today announced the development of a new Mazda dealership and the renovation of three Main Street buildings as part of an over $6 million new development in the South End.
The project will result in approximately 38 jobs at the new facility as well as an enhanced Main Street area in the South End, and will provide a home for the South End Citizens Council as well.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno states, “Jeb Balise came to see me and Chief Development Officer Kevin Kennedy a few years ago to express his family’s continued commitment to be part of ‘our Springfield Renaissance’ with major economic development expansion plans and philanthropic community efforts. As he and his family have done for the past 100 years right here in Springfield – they have followed through and I am so pleased and thankful for their continued belief and investment in our Springfield and my administration as we continue to create more jobs.”
Construction on the project is set to begin this summer, with completion expected in 2020. The dealership adds to Balise’s portfolio in the South End which includes Hyundai, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Ready Credit, and a new car wash. The South End Citizens Council, currently housed in one of the three historic buildings that will be renovated, will continue to have a home with Balise.
“We continue to invest in the South End of Springfield and our newest project is exciting,” said Jeb Balise, CEO of Balise Auto Group. “Being a part of the South End is important to myself and my family, and we plan on being a positive influence for the next 100 years and beyond.”
Balise employs over 1,500employees in approximately 25 dealerships throughout New England. Jeb Balise and the Balise family were recently honored for a “Lifetime of Philanthropy” by the Rotary Club of Springfield.
“Jeb and the Balise family have been great friends to Springfield for many years,” said Chief Development Officer Kevin Kennedy. “We’re excited with this new investment that will create jobs, provide a state of the art dealership, and reinvest in Main Street historic commercial buildings. It’s a win-win.”
“From the South End Citizens Council, Balise has been a first class neighbor to have. They have always worked with us in the neighborhood – they have provided help and support and we look forward to working together in the future,” added Leo Florian, President of the South End Citizens Council.