A recent site visit by Philadelphia YIMBY has observed that construction work has not yet begun at a 60-unit mixed-use building at 2213-33 North Front Street in East Kensington. Designed by Cadre Design, the structure will rise seven stories and will include commercial space on the ground floor.
The development is situated on the east side of the block between Emerald Street and East Dauphin Street, next to the elevated Market-Frankford Line. The site has sat vacant since around 2007 or 2008, when a dilapidated three-story structure was torn down. The lack of progress at the project is not surprising as no permits have yet been filed; it is, nevertheless, disappointing, as the new building is much needed to fill a glaring gap in the street wall, and the retail space would contribute positively to the commercial corridor.
The building’s design is urbane and attractive, featuring a light, warm-toned color palette that will add a cheerful touch to the otherwise gloomy street capped by an elevated train. Chamfered loggia balconies and projective decorative frames lend contemporary sophistication to the design.
Furthermore, the construction of 60 residential units is fitting for a site that sits just to the south of the York-Dauphin Station on the El, which provides a short ride to destinations such as Center City, University City, the skylines of which will come into panoramic view from the building’s upper floors. We look forward to the filing of permits for the development.
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Councilmantic privileged involving in holding up project?
And in January 2022 it was listed as a by right project. Did it clear CDR yet? If this is by right why hasn’t it gone to start construction?