While commercial development on the east side has made great strides recently — the Coal Factory, the expansion of Angie’s List headquarters, and the ongoing improvements along East 10th Street to name just three — residents were shocked and dismayed when they saw a demolition crew at the corner of East 10th and Emerson Ave. this summer. The crew quickly demolished the back and one side of the building, leaving the brick facade and part of the roof. As of this writing, work on the site has been stopped, leaving eastsiders wondering what will be done with the property — and when the project would begin.
On November 13, the NESCO Land Use committee met with a representative of the owner of 1008 N. Emerson to discuss plans for the corner. The owner, Balwinder Singh, plans to build a gas station and convenience store on the corner, and brought the plans to city planners earlier this year. After getting what the developer thought was an OK from the city to build the project without a need for variances, demolition started. However, neighbors called about the demo, which put wheels in motion which ended in a stop-work order. Planners took another look at the project and realized it would need variances to move forward.
The current plan (subject to revisions) would require a reduction in the setback from recommended 70 feet to 34 feet, and adding a directional sign in the right-of-way, which is not allowed. The proposed site would allow for three gas pumps under a canopy, and a 2,450 square foot convenience store.
Singh’s representative, David Rutherford, said that the owner has been responsive to other neighborhood associations regarding the project and would welcome ideas. “He wants to leave the walls . . . they’ve been there since before I was born.” The existing walls would become the side and front of the convenience store.
Residents in attendance asked questions regarding the traffic flow patterns on the busy corner, and how the plans might impact the Emerson Gateway project currently under construction. In addition, NESCO representatives noted that the plan calls for the alley to be used as an entrance from Emerson, which would be a nuisance to residents who use the alley to access their properties. They also indicated concern that the site plan shows an exit/entrance on to 10th Street within 40 feet of the intersection, compromising safety for drivers.
The city also plans to add bike lanes on East 10th Street immediately east of the intersection, reducing travel lanes from Emerson to Arlington. Given all the issues brought up about public safety, the committee voted to oppose the plans. There will be a hearing for the variance on Dec. 9th at 1 p.m. at the City-County Building. Residents are encouraged to attend to show community support.
