In 2017, Mosaic Development Partners acquired a more than 1 acre residential multifamily (RM-3) zoned parcel between Tulpehocken Station and a group of mid-rise residential buildings in Germantown. Currently, the parcel sits vacant and covered in vegetation.
In 2018, Mosaic Development partners presented a 100-unit plan for the site to the neighbors. By 2019, the developer’s proposal had shifted to a plan for around 40 smart homes that would be sold to homeowners.
It looks like a new plan is in place. Mosaic Development Partners is now proposing 83 residential units on the site along with 25 parking spaces. The development entails 5 total buildings. 55 rental units will be located within a 6-story building. 28 additional units are planned within four 4-story structures. Mosaic plans on selling the 28 units within the 4-story structures to homeowners.
The renderings depict modern buildings with dark grey brick facades. The 6-story building seems to be wrapped in some kind of screen. The parking lot entrance is located to the east of the train station parking lot.
This project will need a variance in order to proceed as planned. The ZBA hearing is currently scheduled for March 24th. Before then, the project will appear before the Civic Design Review (CDR) on March 2nd. We should get more detailed information about the facade materials and other design components shortly before the CDR hearing.
We like the idea of adding residential density so close to the train line and would like to see less parking in this transit-accessible location. Hopefully, the modern architecture blends in with the existing neighborhood. There’s a 12-story structure right on the other side of the train tracks from this site, so height should not be a major issue. We’re sad to see green space disappear, but have been told that the development team will be preserving some of the older trees on the property, which we appreciate.
How do you feel about this proposal?
Kyle is a commercial real estate agent at Rittenhouse Realty Advisors, a homeowner, and a real estate investor in Philadelphia. Kyle uses his extensive Philadelphia real estate market knowledge to help his clients buy and sell multifamily investment properties, development opportunities, and industrial sites.
Email Kyle@RittenhouseRealty.com if you are looking to buy or sell a property
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