Fill The Spot: 82-84 Truman Street

Someone is keeping a little bit of character in the former Department of Motor Vehicles and Department of Social Services building on Truman Street. There are a couple of classic cars stored inside. The door on the DMV side is guarded by a leering wooden statue with a hat placed (strategically, I assume) over his groin. But the building has not had any official business since the departure of the state offices.

According to city records, the building was first constructed in 1950 and has been through a number of owners. Currently, the company Weichart Realtors is looking for a buyer with an asking price of $299,000. The structure measures 9,916 square feet and has a rear lot capable of holding 40 or more vehicles. There have also been recent renovations including a new roof, overhead doors leading onto Truman Street, and insulated windows.

John A. Troland Jr., an employee at the Niantic realty company who suggested the site as a Fill The Spot location, said the two-level building has the "potential for many uses." Indeed, the listing suggests it could be used for anything from a machine shop to manufacturing to professional services.

The DMV was at the site for 25 years before moving out in 1986. Despite the reputation the DMV has always had, one column suggested that the branch was staffed by exceptionally polite people. Or at least the author hoped his pleasant experience there wasn't a "one-day aberration." At 84 Truman Street, next door in the same building, the state ran an employment office.

First Step, the organization mentioned in the , wanted to move into the building in 2002. Those plans fell through - and led to litigation - after the city denied a permit.

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