With respect to Goodrich, I imagine that the construction detours will be their biggest problem and is likely their reasoning for saying that the project would put them out. The developer here would end up having to subsidize Goodrich during the construction period to keep them afloat.
Yeah, I'm surprised this wasn't pushed forward long ago. Although I do think it would be nice if they could preserve the Biggby location since it is the original location for what is now a very large chain of coffee shops and also it's unique architecture (even though I believe it was built as an Arby's).
If passed, the ordinance would affect four properties in the district along Grand River Avenue, ranging from Showroom Shine to the vacant lot next to Biggby Coffee, 270 W. Grand River Ave. The property adjacent to the vacant lot also would fall under the jurisdiction.
East Lansing staff members are in favor of having buildings be up to six stories tall because it’s seen as a way to make the city more environmentally friendly and retain an urban environment.
I'm happy with this design. If anything it's a sign that Studio Intrigue is maturing. It's certainly their style all the way, but it looks like they're using a better variety of material and the facade has enough going on to keep it interesting. I especially like the faux copper roof.
It's a shame that Biggby is asking for a separate drive-thru here. The current location has done well without one, and we should be pushing for less curb cuts on Grand River.
The article says that Biggby will "fill much of the first floor," saying that there will be 2,000-2,200 sq ft of additional space for another tennant. It also says that there will be 240 parking spots between the basement and the second floor, nothing about any on the first. I guess a good portion of the first floor will be taken up by the ramps to the second floor and basement along with Biggby's drive-thru.
The whole NIMBY argument here is so out of whack with the market. You only have to drive to the edges of East Lansing to see that the demand is not being let in to the city. The people fighting against this development are going to make developers lose their profit margins and make projects like these not possible. It does cost more to build density. Taking off the top two floors can be a deal breaker for a project.
Comments
http://statenews.com/article/2014/03/city-could-consider-ordinance-that-grants-grand-river-development
I'm happy with this design. If anything it's a sign that Studio Intrigue is maturing. It's certainly their style all the way, but it looks like they're using a better variety of material and the facade has enough going on to keep it interesting. I especially like the faux copper roof.
This will fit nice with the Gumby's Goomba's Pizza building across the street.