New Rendering for 49 Affordable Units Across from Stinger Square
The project has started construction just blocks from CHOP's massive - and ill-conceived - parking garage in Grays Ferry
Affordable housing is one of the biggest hot-button political issues when it comes to urban development - one has to look to that city to our north to see just how important it is. Philly is no exception, as the rising cost of living paired with the aging of a large portion of its housing stock creates a crunch on our neighbors who are most in need. Thankfully, we have some good news for 1348 S. 32nd St., formerly an industrial building across from Stinger Square Park in Grays Ferry. We first heard word of this project from Naked Philly a few months back, when they reported that there were big plans for what is now an empty lot at the corner of 32nd & Reed.
After doing a little digging, we were able to find some more info about this project, which will bring 49 residential units over commercial space and a 10-car garage on the ground level. This project is being led by CEI-Boulos Capital Management and is called Stinger Square Affordable Housing Project. They’ve partnered with TD Bank and have brought in local team Small Girl Development to bring over four dozen units for those making up to 80% of the local Area Median Income (AMI), with the commercial space earmarked for local-, minority-, or women-owned businesses.
The concept features 13 efficiency units, 25 one-bedroom units, and 11 two-bedroom units across the seven stories, which boasts a contemporary look from Cornerstone Consulting. Additionally, a green roof and other green technology will be incorporated throughout, creating a project that is truly mission focused.
With the equipment already present on the fenced-off site, we would imagine this will charge forward, especially with funding already in place and zoning permission procured. To say this is a positive project for the neighborhood seems like an understatement; we can’t wait to see it finished.
Something that we had hoped we’d never see finished is unfortunately getting started just a few blocks away. That would be the 1,005-vehicle garage that is being built by CHOP. We’ve talked about our dismay with the terribly conceived project on our social media platforms (Editor’s Note: follow them!), but sadly it seems as if this project is moving forward - a huge blow to the health and safety of the neighborhood.
It’s a shame that a freaking CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL is the driving force behind something that will make the area less safe for children. Let’s hope that we see more affordable housing and fewer parking garages as the city tries to meet the promise of 30,000 homes in the coming years.
