A long-dormant manufacturing site in Auburn is set for a potential revival following its acquisition by a national commercial developer.
On June 5, Auburn East LLC—an affiliate of St. Louis-based Commercial Development Company, Inc. (CDC)—announced the purchase of the 15-acre former Bombardier manufacturing plant at 151 Orchard Street. The property was acquired from Auburn Technology, Inc.
“This historic manufacturing plant represents a turning point for a property that has tremendous potential but has sat underutilized for far too long,” said Mark Hinds, Executive VP of Acquisitions at CDC.
The site spans 237,480 square feet of industrial space and features multiple mid-20th-century buildings. Originally opened in 1886 as the McIntosh & Seymour Diesel Engine Company, the facility was later operated by Bombardier for diesel engine and rail equipment manufacturing. It has remained largely inactive for nearly two decades.
Auburn East LLC plans to assess whether to retain or redevelop the site based on market demand, with a focus on returning it to productive industrial use. Mayor Jimmy Giannettino welcomed the news, calling the complex “deeply personal” to many residents. “There is now real possibility for a new beginning and a brighter future for this site and for the ‘West End’ of Auburn,” he said.
The site is equipped for heavy industrial use with high ceilings, wide column spacing, and 12 overhead cranes ranging from 10 to 40 tons in capacity. It also has existing power infrastructure, full utility connections, truck access from three directions, and proximity to adjacent rail lines.
CDC has developed over 50 million square feet across more than 300 sites in North America, specializing in redeveloping distressed or underutilized industrial properties.
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