October 07, 2015
Contributed Art/Cope Linder Architects
Rendering of proposed development including apartment tower and supermarker at 1300 Fairmount Avenue.
Last month, Philadelphians got their first look inside the massive, $44 million Divine Lorraine restoration project, which will include more than 100 residential units, retail space and a ground-level "Vetri caliber" restaurant.
The area along North Broad Street and Fairmount is on track for yet another ambitious development after Philadelphia's zoning board last week approved the transformation of a vacant lot at 1300 Fairmount Avenue into a supermarket and a 19-story apartment tower, PlanPhilly reports.
Led by New York-based RAL Development Services, the apartment tower will include 500 apartments with an entrance facing Fairmount Avenue, while the commercial property will face Ridge Avenue.
It was not clear which supermarket would move into the space but RAL's Spencer Levine said the group is in discussions with potential tenants.
According to PlanPhilly, RAL's rapport with city officials over the project has led to talk of other possible projects down the line, including Request for Proposals for development at Festival Pier or the Central Delaware waterfront.
Philadelphia's deputy mayor for economic development, Alan Greenberger, said the upcoming RAL project and the Divine Lorraine restoration will be symbiotic as the area regains the amenities and appeal of a neighborhood.
