SPRINGFIELD — The City Council approved a special permit on Monday night that allows White Lion Brewery Co. to move forward with plans to open a brewery and tap room at Tower Square.
The permit was approved by unanimous vote. The business will be located in the former Spaghetti Freddy’s restaurant on the Bridge Street side of Tower Square at 1500 Main St. downtown.
White Lion founder and general manager Raymond Berry said the $1.2 million brewery project will be under full construction by this summer and is expected to be completed by late October or early November. Up to 20 people will be employed at the business.
“This is another important step in our journey,” Berry said after the vote. "We’re very excited for this last piece to the project puzzle."
Ward 1 Councilor Adam Gomez was among councilors praising White Lion and Berry for their efforts to enliven the downtown. The company has had regular functions and promotional events there.
"This is something that is special," Gomez said. "It's important that people believe in their dreams, specifically that come from Springfield, that believe in Springfield. And White Lion is a representation of how dreams are made. You can start from the bottom and really rise to the top. It kind of goes with the suds."
White Lion beers have been brewed in Williamsburg and Ipswich, but production will now move to Springfield. The company has been installing equipment in preparation for the Tower Square project, officials said.
Considered light manufacturing, the brewery needed a special permit in a Business C zone under city requirements.
The Planning Department, in a report filed with the City Council, said the company plans to use the space for brewing, packaging and inventory. A limited-service restaurant is also planned that would include White Lion craft beer.
The Planning Department said White Lion has been “a fixture in the downtown for a number of years.”
“The staff believes that having a permanent location for this unique business will help to further invigorate the continuing renaissance of downtown,” the report stated.
Councilor Timothy Ryan said Berry has “become a pioneer” in helping to make the downtown a livelier area. Ryan added that Berry’s courage and vision have helped create a vibe and an attitude in the downtown area.
"We all hope you will be a wild success," Ryan said.
Councilor E. Henry Twiggs said the plans provide an “excellent opportunity” for an excellent group of people.