I stopped into the Architectural Review Committee meeting this afternoon to hear the presentation on the proposed redevelopment of the building at 40th and Pine. [In a blow struck to citizen journalists everywhere, I was prohibited by the committee (after they consulted with the law department) from taking either video or audio recordings of the proceedings, so you won't see the action at malcolmxpark.org. Nevertheless, all materials are a matter of public record, and they did offer to make an audio recording available to me.] Most of the presentation was made by the developers' attorney and architect, though Lussenhop and several representatives from Penn were also present. Karen Allen, Chris O'Donnell, Glen Moyer, and (I believe) the president of the Historical Commission spoke in opposition to the project on various grounds, arguing that it was too large for the space, too close to the street, and that, contrary to the petitioners' claims, it was not part of a commercial strip. Melanie Lamond spoke in favor of the project, noting, among other things, that the restoration of the mansion was highly desirable and that opponents of the hotel should note that their opposition is made possible, in this case, by the fact hat the mansion has a historic designation. She asked those present to reconsider their opposition to a historic district.
The committee rendered a split decision, with 4 opposed to the project in concept and two in favor. That decision is then forwarded, if I understood them correctly, to the full Historical Commission as an advisory opinion. The committee members who objected did so based mostly on the size of the project and its proximity to the street. A couple of them seemed to think that a smaller project might pass muster. One noted that she might be more interested in a project that was taller, if that meant it could be set back from the street more. As the proposal stands now, the apartment buildings on Baltimore would not be razed, and a 5000 sq. ft. restaurant/cafe would open onto 40th street. Overall, it was fascinating to see the committee in action. If you have the time, it's well worth dropping in to see how your fellow residents are helping to craft the everyday pedestrian experience in your neighborhood and elsewhere in the city. Leave your video camera at home. I have tried not to misrepresent anyone's position above, but I'm going from memory here. I live pretty far away from this project, so I'm not directly affected. For now, I'm agnostic on whether it's good or bad for the neighborhood. I was glad to see so many West Philadelphians there to voice their opinions and stay informed! Andrew ---- You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named "UnivCity." To unsubscribe or for archive information, see <http://www.purple.com/list.html>.
