Rare Opportunity: Renovated Brownstone Building FOR SALE on the Historic Erie Canal.

12 West Main Street, in the heart of Downtown Lockport, NY

Rare Opportunity: Renovated Brownstone Building FOR SALE on the Historic Erie Canal.

12 West Main Street, in the heart of Downtown Lockport, NY

Property Highlights

Although J. Fitzgerald Group remains fully operational, they no longer conduct business from this location. The property now serves as a prime example of historic preservation and adaptive reuse, blending modern amenities with the timeless charm of its canal-side setting.
Prime Downtown Location – Along the Historic Erie Canal; this is the most historic block and set of buildings in Lockport. Positioned on Main Street in the heart of downtown, the property is surrounded by a growing mix of new businesses, restaurants, shops, and professional services bringing increased energy, foot traffic, and investment to the area. The combination of historic charm, growing economic activity, and a premier Main Street address makes this one of downtown Lockport’s most compelling locations.
Mixed-Use Zoning (B-2) – Retail, office, or apartment conversion potential
No Deferred Maintenance – Well-maintained, move-in ready
Owner-Occupied with Income Potential – Perfect for investors or owner-users
Scenic Canal Views – Rear porch/deck and awning overlook the Historic Erie Canal

Property Description

The property includes a municipal tax parcel, improved with a commercial brick building that feature historic Erie Canal-era architectural elements.

Site Details: 2,859 (sq ft) occupying nearly the entire land area.
12 West Main Street:
- Three-story brick building with a finished basement and partially finished sub-basement, for a total of 5 floors of usable space
- Three bathrooms (1 full, 2 half)
- Gross & Rentable Area: 2,859 (sq ft)
Parking: Street parking is available on West Main Street. A public lot to the north.
Unique Feature – Canalfront Lower-Level Access: A rare and distinctive feature of this property is its second basement level, which opens directly to a rear porch/deck with an awning overlooking the historic Erie Canal. This unique outdoor space provides unobstructed views of boats passing through the Locks, creating an authentic canalfront experience rarely found in downtown Lockport. Whether used for employee breaks, customer seating, private events, or simply enjoying the scenery, this amenity adds significant character and appeal while connecting occupants directly to one of the city’s most recognizable attractions.

Contact us about this property

Property History

This property offers more than just space — it carries a rich legacy of art, business, and revitalization in downtown Lockport:

1860-1900: Built in 1860 using rock directly from the canal
2000–2002: Operated as The Art Loft, a gallery and framing shop that contributed to the city’s growing arts community.
January 17, 2003: Purchased by Jack Martin and Carmel Cerullo-Beiter, who began a full-scale restoration of 12 West Main Street:
- Completely gutted and renovated the interior of all five levels (sub-basement, basement, and three upper floors)
- Reintroduced Arts & Crafts architectural style throughout, using an arts & crafts color palette and features restoring the building’s original charm
- Added unique design features while modernizing building systems
- Painted entire interior and installed crown molding
- Added new flooring and carpeting throughout
- Uncovered and repointed the original 8-inch stone walls, preserving the building’s historic character
June 1, 2003: J. Fitzgerald Group (JFG), a nationally recognized marketing firm, moved its headquarters into the renovated space.

Although J. Fitzgerald Group remains fully operational, they no longer conduct business from this location. The property now serves as a prime example of historic preservation and adaptive reuse, blending modern amenities with the timeless charm of its canal-side setting.

View PDF of building history

Property Details

Category	Details
Property Type	Mixed-Use – Retail/Office with Apartment Potential
Location	City of Lockport, Niagara County, NY
Zoning	B-2, Business District
FEMA Flood Zone	Zone X (No Flood Risk)
Total Land Area	711 (sq ft)
Number of Buildings	1
Gross Building Area	2,859 (sq ft)
Rentable Area	2,859 (sq ft)
Year Built	Built in 1860 using canal rock
Functional Utility	Average
Deferred Maintenance	None Observed