New development planned in Roxborough: 384 apartments and nearly the same number of parking spaces to be constructed.

A significant new residential development is poised to change the landscape of Roxborough, Philadelphia, with plans for 384 apartments alongside 380 parking spaces situated near SEPTA’s Ivy Ridge Regional Rail stop. The development, which is the largest of its kind in recent Roxborough history, will occupy the site at 4889 Umbria Street and incorporates several existing industrial buildings that currently host businesses, including a vintage furniture store and a beer distributor.

The project, a collaboration between Genesis Properties, based in Philadelphia, and GMH Communities from Newtown Square, will see the majority of the older structures preserved, particularly as the entities work to remove certain alcohol advertisements from the exterior of the beer distribution center.

Designed by Oombra Architects, the development will feature parking facilities on its first two levels, while five floors above will provide residential units. Notably, the project complies with existing zoning laws, allowing it to proceed without the need for special zoning relief. The size of the construction, however, necessitated discussions with the Civic Design Review committee, which provides advisory input regarding architectural design and community integration.

Community representatives, including leaders from local civic associations, have expressed concerns over the development’s scale, marking it as the largest unit-based project in Roxborough to date. Neighbors have pointed out that the almost one-to-one parking ratio exceeds legal requirements and is more than most developers provide in densely populated areas such as Center City Philadelphia. However, some residents are advocating for additional parking, as a significant portion of the new units will contain more than one bedroom.

The proposed unit mix includes 118 studios, 174 one-bedroom apartments, 87 two-bedroom units, and five three-bedroom apartments, many of which will feature balconies. Planned amenities encompass landscaped courtyards, a swimming pool, and a dog run, while no retail spaces are included in the design.

In their negotiations with local stakeholders, the developers have made concessions, such as incorporating more brickwork into the building’s façade to better align with the aesthetic of nearby rowhouses and industrial structures. At a recent Civic Design Review meeting, feedback from a panel of architects and planners was mixed, with some members commenting on the project’s formidable appearance while encouraging the design team to enhance community engagement features.

Ultimately, the Civic Design Review committee requested that the development team reassess its plans and return for further consultation. The 4889 Umbria site marks a significant opportunity for increased housing density in this region, reflecting a broader trend of multifamily residential projects gaining traction in nearby neighborhoods like Manayunk. As discussions surrounding this ambitious project continue, its successful integration within the community remains a primary concern for both developers and local residents.