A 253-foot-tall, 20-story development is slated to rise at 222 Walnut Street in Old City, Center City, integrating a portion of a three-story building built in 1856. Designed by Cecil Baker + Partners and developed by 230 Walnut Street LLC, the project is located near the Society Hill Towers, a high-rise development designed by I.M. Pei.
222 Walnut Street looking west. Original photo from Google Earth, edit by Thomas Koloski
When the proposal was revealed in June 2019, few development watchers expected such a proposal to arrive in the area. The building takes up three lots at 222, 224, and 226 Walnut Street, which includes the historic Nelson Building. The development has faced pushback from preservation groups and local NIMBYs. Upon the historical commission’s review, the building was rejected due to its violation of Standard 9 and the commission’s members pushing against its height. The decision is puzzling when compared to the favorable decision with regard to One Dock Street, a project that is more massive in floor space and height, located only two blocks to the west of 222 Walnut Street. If the development is built, it will make a significant skyline impact when viewed from the Camden waterfront.
No anticipated completion date has yet been announced.
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I don’t understand the problem with this development.
The tower is seriously short in height.
This nonsense within the NIMBY community needs to stop!
I’d suggest making a deal with the city directly, considering the huge tax revenue incentive this development offers should prevail over and above.
If One Dock Street is a by right project affirmed by State Commonwealth court, thus this project is almost certainly a by right project and there is nothing the city can do but release the permits.
That’s not how the zoning laws work.
Shameful. Part of the building to be destroyed dates back to 1856. It is a beautiful building that fits the character of one of the most significant neighborhoods in the country. The man who owns the monstrosity McMansion next door (SE corner Walnut & 4th) has been trying to build a tower there for years. But apparently these developers are more powerful than he is. I am not a NIMBY. I wouldn’t even object to a supertall here. But Philadelphia has to protect its architectural heritage and this is needless destruction.