Project for Pride in Living tackles two buildings at University and Hamline

Project for Pride in Living (PPL) is planning its newest St. Paul project on the north side of University between Hamline and Syndicate on the former Midway Chevrolet site.

By JANE MCCLURE

University Avenue’s transformation continues, spurred on by the upcoming Central Corridor or Green Line light rail service and the potential for new development. Construction is underway in the area between Prior and Fairview avenues, as the new Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity building and Episcopal Homes expansion are well underway. Many projects will be completed or taking shape by the time light rail begins running in 2104.

Now Project for Pride in Living (PPL) will take its turn. The nonprofit housing and jobs provider is planning its newest St. Paul project on the north side of University between Hamline and Syndicate on the former Midway Chevrolet site.

PPL Executive Director Steve Cramer said the nonprofit is pleased to be part of the changes along University. Area residents will see the dirt fly next year.

PPL will build two buildings on the block. The two buildings will each be four stories tall and have a total of 108 dwelling units. Hamline Station West will have 14,249 square feet of main floor retail space and 57 housing units above. Hamline Station East will have 57 dwelling units and no retail. PPL recently won city assistance in the form of tax increment financing (TIF) and has been assembling financing from a number of sources.

“There’s still miles to go, but getting the TIF districts approved is a very important first step,” said Cramer. He said that work to finalize building plans and financing will continue in 2013, with construction starting in 2014.

The projects will provide affordable housing and new retail right on the light rail line and a short distance from Hamline Station. Ward Four Council Member Russ Stark praised the project, saying it gives people a transit-friendly housing option. “This has been in the works for a long time.”

More changes are coming. The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Metro Transit bus barn site and the Midway Marketplace land to the east got underway in late June as Metropolitan Council sought assistance with redevelopment. That area has been eyed for projects including a theater, mixed-use development, a Best Buy and Home Depot. Area residents have long hoped for new retail there.

The most recent request for proposals is meant to bring in a party with redevelopment proposals that are transit-oriented. That will be followed by actually seeking a new developer or developers.

Work also continues on redevelopment of the former Old Home Dairy site into retail and housing, with apartments and new townhouses. A collaborative group is working to redevelop that site.

Also, Beacon InterFaith Housing is continuing its work on Prior Crossing at 1949 University, for a five-story, 44-unit supportive housing development for homeless youth ages 18-25. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2014.