One of the latest renderings of 4224 Baltimore; more available HERE
- Responding to concerns raised during three Spruce Hill Community Association meetings last year, developer U3 Ventures and architect Cecil Baker + Partners presented a slightly scaled-down vision for their proposed mixed-use development at 4224 Baltimore Avenue last week, reports the West Philly Local. While there were some grumblings about the juxtaposition of the ultra-modern design in the Victorian neighborhood, the new renderings show “ something that is friendly and broken up,” basing revisions on past community input.
- From May through September, the nonprofit Columbus Property Management will renovate several low-income housing units along North Gratz Street, reports the Temple News. Yet residents are concerned that the work is simply a way to further gentrify the area with more student housing. That’s not the case, says Columbus’ director of business development Mark Dietcher. “We’re forbidden to rent to full-time students. It’s a prohibition.”
- Flying Kite relates some development lessons from Memphis, Tennessee. Be careful not to over-plan; allow for organic growth as much as possible prior to meaningful intervention. Specifically that translates into forgoing the example set by Portland, Oregon with its restrictive, density-targeted zoning code. “The language of code needs to be as freewheeling as possible,” argues planning director Josh Whitehead. In addition, much of what has been realized in the last few years was made possible by “bootstrapping,” securing micro-investments of $20,000 from community members.
- The four-story, 8,500-square-foot Tiramisu restaurant building at 1519 Walnut Street has sold for $6.2 million, says the Philadelphia Business Journal.“The sale of the property shows the ongoing strength of Walnut Street and Rittenhouse Square real estate. ‘Rental rates continue to grow and sale prices continue to rise,’ said Shaun Lyons, who arranged the sale. ‘It’s a good place to be on Walnut Street.’ Tiramisu is expected to move out in the next couple of months. While the new owner doesn’t have any immediate plans, it is looking for a high-end retailer to backfill the space.”
About the author
Stephen Currall recently received his BA in history from Arcadia University. Before beginning doctoral studies, he is pursuing his interest in local history, specifically just how Philadelphians engage their vibrant past. Besides skimming through 18th century letters, Steve is also interested in music and travel.
