Construction at the Drexel College of Nursing and Health Professions in University City in West Philadelphia has been underway for the past few months, and the steel structure currently rises high enough to start making an impact on the skyline. Designed by Ballinger and developed by Wexford Science & Technology LLC, the 185-foot-tall structure will feature a façade with a mix of staggered glass of varying shades. The structure now rises seven stories tall, just past halfway on the way to its eventual 12-story height. The building is a part of the 14-acre uCity Square project that will dramatically raise the profile several city blocks.
Drexel College Of Nursing And Health Professions from a nearby parking garage. Photo by Thomas Koloski
The last Philadelphia YIMBY update from January noted the erections of two tower cranes on the east and west sides of the structure. The tower did not require an excavation for the foundation, as the footprint was laid out with caissons so the structure directly from the ground level. At the time of the update, steel erection had just began, just portions of the first and second floors rising.
Drexel College Of Nursing And Health Professions from North 38th Street. Photo by Thomas Koloski
Our recent visit to the site reveals that much progress has been made since the last time the site was observed. The cranes have been jumped higher, and multiple floors have been built. At the time of the visit, beams for the eighth and ninth floor were being assembled. Preparations appear to have begun at the second and third floor for cladding installation, which could start some time later this month.
Drexel College Of Nursing And Health Professions from a nearby parking lot. Photo by Thomas Koloski
Completion is expected in May 2023.
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Why is this building specifically, and uCity Square in general, so stubby? GO. TALLER. PEOPLE!
This sits near a major transit line in the MFL. This is a missed opportunity to build a canyon effect around every nurse in West Philadelphia. Such a shame.
Hey Marcus,
The taller buildings are definitely on the way.
We need the shorter buildings like this beauty to compliment the taller towers when they are eventually built.
What is actually taking place is establishing (much needed) density.
As for transit, SEPTA is planning a bus/rail terminal as part of the 30th Street District master plan.