Renovation efforts are in full swing on two historic mansions located on West 6th Street near Sassafras Street in downtown Erie. These projects are part of the ongoing work by the Historic Erie Preservation Trust, which has been revitalizing the historic West 6th Street district for several years. The extensive restoration efforts are made possible through the investment of Tom Hagen.

The latest renovations are taking place on properties situated on the campus of Gannon University. One of the key projects involves the Carter Shannon House, located at 203 West 6th Street on the corner of Sassafras. This historic home, dating back to the 1830s, was acquired by the Preservation Trust from Gannon University. The restoration includes both interior and exterior work, and once completed, the house will be leased back to Gannon University to serve as two three-bedroom apartments, housing up to a dozen university students.

Jeff Kidder, of Kidder Architects, emphasized the importance of these renovations, stating, "These are of interest to us because they're the closest to downtown—they're really on the Gannon campus, so being able to clean them up and make them shine again is kind of part of the greater mission for the whole street."

In the same block, another significant project is underway at the Frederick Jarecki House, an English Tudor-style home built in 1901 and located at 221 West 6th Street. This property, in much better shape is getting many modern updates. Kidder explained the scope of the work, saying, "Both buildings are getting a complete interior and exterior renovation—systems, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, finishes—bathrooms... everything's being done, similar to other ones we've done on 6th Street." Once restored, the house will be leased back to Gannon University to serve as offices for alumni and development purposes.

In addition to these two projects, a unique transformation is planned to pull another historic home on West 7th Street, into the West 6th Street project, literally. A 1950's Gannon University dormitory, Wehrle Hall, is set to be demolished during the summer months. Once the dormitory is removed, the Olds-Norman mansion currently located on West 7th Street, which previously housed Ron Norman Studios, will be picked up and moved to West 6th Street, placing it right between the Carter Shannon House and the Frederick Jarecki House.

The relocation of the mansion will be carried out by a specialized company with extensive experience in moving historic structures. According to Kidder, the process will involve digging a trench and constructing a new foundation under the house. While the actual move will only take a day or two, preparation for the relocation will take about a month. Kidder noted, "It'll be fun to watch, and we're definitely going to let you know and let everybody know when it's happening. The move itself will only take a day or two, and like I said, we're thinking of that in October."

The Historic Erie Preservation Trust continues to make significant strides in preserving and revitalizing the architectural heritage of West 6th Street, ensuring these historic properties remain a vibrant part of the community for years to come.