A recent site visit by Philly YIMBY has revealed that construction has not yet started at the five-story, 50-unit residential building at 139 West Chelten Avenue in Germantown, Northwest Philadelphia, though permits were issued last October. Designed by CANNOdesign, the development will be situated within a two- to three-block walking distance to two SEPTA Regional Rail stations, the Chelten Avenue Station to the southwest and the Germantown Station to the northeast. The ground-level retail space will contribute to the commercial corridor along which the building will be situated. The structure will span a 13,681-square-foot footprint and will feature 52,391 square feet of interior space, full sprinkling, and an unspecified number of parking spaces. Permits list Tester Construction Group as the contractor and a construction cost of $7.7 million.
139 West Chelten Avenue. Photo by Jamie Meller. June 2022
139 West Chelten Avenue. Photo by Jamie Meller. June 2022
The building will boast a plain yet highly attractive attractive exterior of tan brick with vertical brick detailing and large windows, which will make for an attractive presence at the avenue.
The development is a fine example of dense, transit-oriented development that is making a significant comeback around the city’s and the metropolitan area’s rail hubs. The incoming residents and ground-level retail will help revitalize a once-thriving, but currently ailing stretch commercial corridor, and will help solidify it as a destination for the lower-density surrounding neighborhood. It is unfortunate that there appears to be no construction progress at the site more than half a year after permit issue, as it promises to be a beneficial addition to the community.
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Do you have ANY idea what surrounds this site.??? Have you
checked the crime reports??
Lawrie,
This design bears a strong resemblance to the new proposed Apartment Complex at 5521 Wayne Avenue in Germantown, just a few blocks around the corner, with the same design team. With minor differences, such as the window mullions and shrubs. It’s a rough worn-down neighborhood. I’m not sure of the latest crime reports, you can check with the Police Department.