Interested in living in Franklinton? Then your input is needed on a new survey about a new live/work loft building that is being proposed by developer Lance Robbins of Urban Smart Growth.
“At this point the project is still conceptual, but in our mind it’s a done deal,” said leasing agent Shibnum Blewett. “We have a very talented team working on this project and have full confidence in it’s completion.”
In order to secure financial support for the build out of this project, Urban Smart Growth would like input from the public to help shape the vision and to gauge interest in the feasibility of these residential units.
“We don’t want to rely 100% on expert advice,” said Blewett. “We have an amazing opportunity to create something completely new, and we’d like to craft that around what people tell us they want.”
The first phase of the proposed project would be a four story building containing 42 units roughly 900 square feet with open floor plans and high ceilings. The project is zoned for retail, offices, studios, light manufacturing and residential uses. Ground floor units facing the street would be ideal for retail or office usage.
“Our target market is anyone who wants to move into a vibrant creative community right next to a revitalized downtown,” said Blewett. “People who don’t want to rely on a car for every trip and who want to know their neighbors. People who can walk into a big open space and make it their own.”
The Franklinton Art Lofts would be located on the empty lot located at the northwest corner of Lucas Street and Rich Street, adjacent to the 400 West Rich art studio building. If the project moves forward, construction could begin within the next 12-24 months.
For more information, or to take the survey, visit www.400westrich.com/about/livework/. The survey will be active through December 31st, 2012.
For more information about Urban Smart Growth, visit www.urbansmartgrowth.net.
Rendering by Jonathan Barnes Architecture and Design.