Family fixing up Fulton St. home

SANDUSKY — Corey Aldridge views his company's latest undertaking as a true legacy project. Through Aldridge Restoration, co-owned by Corey and his wife, Morgan, they recently teamed up with Corey's dad, Jamie, to pursue a complete top-to-bottom renovation at 201 Fulton St. in Sandusky. It's located near the city's fire station on West Market Street. But, for Corey, the legacy aspect spans deeper than just his father. "When we first started this project, I took a picture of my dad and my son, Ezra, and they're sitting on the staircase inside this place," said Corey, who also runs MOCO Boutique, in Huron, with Morgan. "Years from now, I want to look back at that picture, after this project is done, and be proud that our entire family played a big role in improving this neighborhood," Corey added. Corey and Jamie, both of Huron, want to transform the dilapidated, empty structure into a state-of-the-art living space. The multi-story residence boasts eight units. Jamie, a general contractor by trade, owns A & N Excavating and Construction. He's rehabbed nearly two dozen properties through his company. Corey's company, meanwhile, specializes in buying run-down rental properties across the area and overhauling them. "I'm really proud to be working with one of my sons and turning something that is absolutely an eyesore into something that will be gorgeous," said Jamie, noting a former owner didn't pay water bills, which led to its demise. "It does have good bones," Jamie said about the home. "We're confident we can make this something special." Both Corey and Jamie pegged the project as a $600,000 private investment. In terms of price, it's the largest endeavor for Corey's company and ranks right up there with Jamie's past projects. Due to the project's scope, neither expects to complete all tasks until mid-2024. "When we are done, everything will be brand new," Corey said about its amenities. This would include granite or quartz countertops, ceramic tiles, hardwood floors and more. Jamie, who grew up in Sandusky, fondly remembers this area. As a child, he often passed by this very structure on his way walking to stores or visiting a friend's house. "So many people, including the younger generation, want to live in downtown Sandusky," Jamie said. "Who wouldn't when you're two blocks away from so many great restaurants and bars and right by the water?" Corey credited other investors who've pursued other nearby residential-related projects for convincing him and his dad to make this major investment in Sandusky. "This is a proven model," Corey said. "There is demand for it, and we're thankful for those people and the city government for all that they've done, leading us to this point. Now we are going to be a part of it all."