Savin Hill Corner Market Plan Has Been Expanded For Condos

Developer James Baker is expanding the scope of his proposed local market project on the corner of Savin Hill Avenue and Sydney Street to include more parking and 15 condominiums in a separate building, he told members of the Columbia-Savin Hill Civic Association at their planning meeting Tuesday night.

The long-empty corner property— once a busy variety store— will get a second chance as a neighborhood market, Baker says. Its design has not been altered much from the version pitched to the civic group in March, a staggered three-story structure that would house a first-floor market and two floors of retail space above. That plan was met with general support from members of the planning committee.

The project is growing to include a residential component on the two Sydney Street lots, Baker said. At this early stage, Baker is pitching a 15-unit, three-story apartment building along Sydney Street, leaving room for 10 parking spaces behind the structure. Another two spaces would be allocated for retail only, he said.

Cristo Rey is in talks to help accommodate the retail needs, Baker said. The high school may allow them to move the location of the handicapped access ramp to open up some space along the property divide, as well as allow use of the school parking lot during non-school hours.

“We’re working to formalize an agreement,” Baker said, though nothing has been signed yet. Kevin Deabler with RODE Architects said they are working on the design to allow the properties and the school to “cohabitate” in the neighborhood.

Baker is soliciting community feedback through a project page on coUrbanize.com. Residents will be able to see plans and offer comments on the project through the website.

For more information, read the original article by Jennifer Smith at the Dorchester Reporter here.