Polaris Building

[1] The early 1950s were a period of unprecedented growth in Fairbanks as the federal government invested in upgrading Alaska's defenses for the Cold War.

Several owners, including Anchorage developer Marc Marlow, sought waivers and tax credits from government agencies to help restore the building.

Marlow's plans included transforming the structure into a mixed-use building with office and retail spaces on the ground and top levels, complemented by apartments in between.

Drawing inspiration from a similar endeavor in New Orleans, Candy Chang sought to evoke a sense of community ownership and empowerment by encouraging individuals to articulate their desires for their neighborhood.

The assessment's findings revealed the presence of hazardous substances, including asbestos, mold, mercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

[13] The City of Fairbanks applied for an Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Targeted Brownfield Assessment in 2020, in order to continue their work towards redeveloping the property.

[11] The removal of the building proved to be a complex process due to its size and the handling of hazardous materials, with completion expected in October 2025.

[14] The Mayor of Fairbanks, David Pruhs, has suggested exploring the possibility of replacing the building with high-end condominiums, office spaces, and retail establishments.

Looking east, down Second Avenue from Cushman Street in 1955. In the background is the Polaris Building.
Polaris building "Looking for Love" behind Lathrop building
Boarded-up Polaris Building in 2021, from a nearby business patio