Neighbors across South Philly breathed a huge sigh of relief a few years ago when plans for a Foxwoods casino at 1401 S. Columbus Blvd. fell through. In the time since then, the lot has continued to sit vacant, and about a year ago we learned that Bart Blatstein had the property under agreement. At the time, we wondered what might be in store for this enormous property, speculating that we'd see a mix of commercial and residential development and hoping for something new and interesting for the site.
Last month, Philly Mag noticed a brochure from MSC Retail that details the first attempt at Mr. Blatstein's plan for this parcel. Check it out:
As we speculated, the project, as currently constituted, would mean a mix of residential and commercial development. On the front end of the project the plan calls for a Wawa gas station, an Aldi, other retail possibilities, and tons of parking. Looking at the site, it also looks like the front half of the property will include a couple of apartment buildings which will contain 435 units and retail downstairs. In the back, plans call for a combination of townhomes and duplexes and a large green space that will connect to the Delaware River Trail. Finally, there would be fifty-four homes on the pier, jutting out into the river.
A story today in the Inquirer discusses the plan, indicating that public opinion on the project is mixed as it's currently designed. People involved with the CDAG are not thrilled with the project, specifically the suburban-style shopping center aspect. A representative from the local community group, on the other hand, is more on board with the project and is excited to see progress at the property. We're gonna hold off on commenting, as we're certain that it will go through several different iterations before it finally moves forward.
We do wonder though, might be room on the property for a wax museum?