Michael A. Nutter
Room 404 City Hall
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
(215) 686-3416
Fax No. (215) 686-1934
June 10, 2005
Mr. Robert Sklaroff,Chair
Philadelphia Historic Commission
576 City Hall
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Re: 3 Rector Street
Dear Chairman Sklaroff:
I am writing regarding the request to demolish 3 Rector Street, known as the LaBov Building, in Manayunk. I am aware of the historic preservation ordinance for Main Street/Manayunk and that the provisions of this ordinance seek to insure the historic integrity of this neighborhood and preserve as much of the original buildings as possible.
The developer of 3 Rector Street has meet with the Manayunk Neighborhood Council, the Manayunk Development Corporation, and me. It is my understanding that Kevin Smith, President of the Manayunk Neighborhood Council, wishes to preserve this building. The Manayunk Development Corporation, however, supports the proposal to demolish and erect a residential development on the site.
I have reviewed the proposed plan for residential development at this site. While it is important to preserve the historic fabric of Main Street, I also know the difficulty in finding a prospective buyer and proposed re-use for this particular building. The building housed a plumbing supply business for many years and is zoned industrial. The reality of finding an industrial use at this location is very improbable. In fact, the property has been for sale for at least four years. The property does not sit directly on Main Street; although it is only one to two blocks away. However, the property does abut the towpath, and an industrial use at this site is very contrary to the pedestrian and recreational improvements made to the Manayunk Canal and Towpath.
I feel that a residential development at this site will benefit the Main Street corridor. Residential uses create the least amount of traffic impact and add pedestrians and foot traffic along the commercial corridor. Alternative uses, such as a retail establishment, restaurant or nightclub would not be as beneficial and could result in additional nuisance and quality of life concerns.
If the Commission approves the demolition, I know the developer is fully willing to work with the Historic Commission and the community on the design elements to insure that the new structure will compliment the historic district.
I, therefore, feel that demolition of this particular building for the proposed residential re-use is appropriate, and I respectfully request the approval of the Commission.
Thank you for the opportunity to present my views on this matter. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or desire additional information.
Sincerely,
Michael A. Nutter
Councilman - 4th District