While the development approval process first began back in January for the redevelopment of the High Street block between 16th and 17th Avenues, representatives from the Edwards Communities made it official today with the unveiling of “The Wellington”. Once completed, the new building will house 448 students, 46,000 square feet of ground floor retail, a 5,300 square foot clubhouse amenity for residents, and a large underground parking garage to serve the entire building.
“The Wellington will be a high quality addition to the High Street corridor and will help meet the demand for additional housing with modern amenities in the area,” stated Ryan Szymanski of Edwards Communities Development Company. “The retail space available at The Wellington will be well-suited for restaurant and retail users who are eager to serve the University District community.”
The name of The Wellington comes from one of the eight buildings that have recently been demolished, which famously housed Bernies Bagels & Deli until its closure at the end of 2015. Demolition of the block began in early August with only one building still standing as of today.
Edwards Communities also announced today that retail leasing for The Wellington will be handled by Casto in a deal similar to their new Highline at Nine building, currently under construction just a few blocks south on High Street between 8th and 9th Avenues. So far, the only tenant announced at the Highline at Nine is Chumley’s, a bar that was displaced by the demolition at The Wellington site.
The Wellington represents just one piece of a larger redevelopment initiative for several blocks of the University District surrounding 15th and High. Campus Partners, the nonprofit development arm of The Ohio State University, unveiled a master plan in June that showcases three redeveloped blocks between 14th Avenue and 17th Avenue. That plan calls for taller mixed-use buildings, upgraded pedestrian infrastructure, a multi-function parking garage to serve the area, and a “public square” in the center.
“Edwards’ work to the north of the 15th + High district will help extend the rebirth of this important intersection between the University and the neighborhood,” said Amanda Hoffsis, president of Campus Partners. “Redevelopment of this area is a key focus for Campus Partners, and as such, it’s great to have quality developers working in tandem along the High Street corridor.”
For more information, visit www.edwardscommunities.com and www.castoinfo.com.
Visuals via Kelley Design Co / Acock Associates Architects.
