The Royal Theater Is Getting Closer to a Proposed Redevelopment Project

There’s still a long way to go, but Carl Dranoff’s redevelopment plans for the Royal Theater are forging ahead.

Dranoff, if you recall, has been seeking legislative rezoning in order to demolish the historic property and build a new mixed-use structure in its place: a 50-foot tall building with 45 “high-end” rental units, 7,600 square feet of commercial space and a green roof. The Royal’s exterior would be the only original feature kept on Dranoff’s new building.

Now, PlanPhilly’s Jared Brey reports that Councilman Kenyatta Johnson has introduced a bill that would allow Dranoff to build his proposed project with additional density along 15th, 16th, South, and Kater streets.

The bill, however, will have to undergo review with three groups: the Historical Comission (because the property has a historically designated facade), the Planning Commission and City Council’s Rules Committee.

Brey adds that the South of South Neighborhood Association (SOSNA) intends to hold a public meeting with Dranoff to “get input from community members.” Thus far, at least one neighborhood group has expressed their support. From PlanPhilly:

“We are absolutely in favor on any proposal that retains commercial usage along South Street,” said Marcus Iannozzi, chair of the South Street West Business Association. “We feel that Dranoff’s proposal in particular is the most viable and thoughtful project that we’ve seen.”

New zoning introduced for Royal Theater redo [PlanPhilly]