The Hiawatha, formerly Joe's Smoke Shop

665 Congress Street, Portland

The Issue

In 1965, St. Stephens Church at 669 Congress Street was demolished due to a declining congregation by the Episcopal Church. The stone Gothic Revival Building was completed in 1855 and was an important presence in Longfellow Square. The lot, long vacant, was used for parking.

Our Position

The large parking lot left by the demolition of St. Stephens Church fifty years ago and a beloved local business will be part of the proposed new development project that will reinforce the street wall on Congress Street. The developer proposes a twenty-million dollar mixed use building with 132 apartment units, a 100-car parking garage and a new storefront for Joe’s Variety Store, formerly known as Joe’s Smoke Shop. Part of the Congress Street Historic District, the proposed building was approved by the city’s Historic Preservation Board in 2015.

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What You Can Do

  • Keep an eye on the construction process at 667 Congress Street, and for the reopening of Joe's Variety Store (formerly Joe's Smoke Shop).

  • Join our mailing list to stay informed about advocacy efforts, educational programs, and upcoming events.

  • Support our advocacy efforts.