As we were exploring the series of pathways under 95 near Fishtown/Port Richmond (more to come on that – hint hint), we found ourselves on Richmond Street along the main commercial strip in the area. It had been ages since we found ourselves in this neck of the woods, but as we explored further, we came across a pair of familiar projects that we last covered in December 2020. Today we start at the southernmost of the two projects at 3037 Richmond St., where a former theater/bookstore has made way for new apartments.

Plans here called for the demolition of the non-historically protected structure on site, with 31 units to rise in its place. Construction has moved rapidly since then, with the new building designed by Ambit Architecture now topped off and approaching the finish line. A modern take on the industrial nature of the neighborhood, The Portsmouth features black windows and variegated brick to pair with the barely-angled massing, giving a decidedly modern feel to this new addition to the strip. Renderings for this one are scant, but it appears that final product looks remarkably like the original plans.

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The former home of Port Richmond Books from several years back
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A blurry rendering hints at what's to come
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A look at the uninspiring view from the past

Immediately to the north, 3045 Richmond St. is also looking ready to roll. Formerly the home to various automotive businesses, 28 units are joining the fold, with 16 2-bed units and 12 1-bed units adding to the residential mass next door. Fifth Realty developed this project, with Cadre Design creating a more traditional industrial design, with ample brick on the front facade. The ground floor contains 22 parking spots thanks to a trip to the ZBA, with blank walls making up the remainder of the ground floor (can we get some landscaping, please?). We aren’t in love with the curb-cut, but this is most certainly a huge step-up from an urbanist perspective.

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A rendering of the industrial-inspired design, with landscaping included
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The view today, also looking nearly identical to the rendering

While we haven’t gotten up to Port Richmond much as of late, this trip definitely inspired us to make our way up here more often. In addition to the nearly 60 new units, Richmond St. is incredibly cute for being pressed up against 95. And if you feel as if you have to go out of your way to get here, those pathways that we alluded to make getting from Fishtown or Northern Liberties both easy and direct. And with this glorious spring weather, consider this yet another reason to stop by Tacconelli’s and scarf down one of the city’s best pies.