The above building to the right, it not currently a candy factory. It was, indeed a candy factory at one time. Here, at 301 South Church Street, you will find the Dorothy Bardolph Human Services Center as well as private organizations that rent space here. The property is owned by developer Marty Kotis who wants to change the image of this east part of town. Kotis’ strategy is to post the attractive, eye-catching art to attract people to an area that you hope to re-purpose.*  To the right (not visible) is the Douglas Gaylon Depot. 

Kotis plans to have retail, offices, and restaurants in the area. He wants Greensboro to be attractive and a place that entices young adults to want to be here. He has been recruiting artists to paint murals around town and the lollipop is one such mural. On the day we were on site, as a woman was leaving the building, we asked her if she worked at the “Candy Factory.” She said, not exactly, explaining that she worked with people with addiction issues–and not to candy. The building exudes a Willy Wonka vibe. It will be interesting to see how it transforms and whether, indeed, the area becomes a destination for families with young children.

* reference and additional information, here.