This former manufacturing facility was acquired by O’Connell Development Group several years ago with the intention of redeveloping it as a retail center. In spring 2011, the Holyoke City Council unanimously approved a zone change that will allow retail uses on the parcel. The project is currently in the permitting stage. Permits are required from the Holyoke Public Works Department, Holyoke Planning Board, Holyoke Conservation Commission, MassDOT, Army Corps of Engineers, and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. In March 2012, the Holyoke Planning Board approved the $16 million retail project with a Big Y supermarket. Demolition of the existing building is anticipated for late spring/summer of 2013, followed by the con…