During a January 27th meeting, Ambler’s Planning Commission voted to recommend to Ambler’s borough council that it should amend the zoning code to permit the redevelopment of the properties to allow BET Investments to construct a 243-unit apartment building named Ambler Flats. The addresses involved are 100 – 112 West Butler, Avenue, and 19, 23, and 27 South Chestnut Street.
In addition to the apartments, the project includes new office space for Hatch, which currently has an office at 100 West Butler Pike, along with retail, public parking (mainly after-hours and weekends), and a public space called Arts Walk, which would feature local artists.
The January 27th meeting was the third review of the proposal. During the review, the developer addressed issues previously raised by the planning commission, such as the height of the buildings, parking, public space, and retail. Regarding the height of the buildings, the zoning code permits 65 feet. The developer sought 80 feet and responded with a proposal to have the two buildings average 67 and 64 feet in height.
As part of its recommendation, the planning commission stated that developer should work with the Montgomery County Planning Commission, borough solicitor, and borough staff, to:
- Add green roof operations and maintenance plan approval under 27-2703.E.4.b as per Montgomery County Planning Commission letter;
- Revise height reach up to 75 feet maximum; and
- Allow for stair tower access for green roof to be excluded from the maximum height
The ordinance amendment is now on the agenda for Ambler’s borough council, which will be the body that determines whether to adopt it or not. During the February 3rd meeting, the council members were provided the letter of recommendation from the planning commission, updated renderings, and a fiscal impact analysis. You can view these documents starting at page 60.
On February 3rd (agenda) there will be a discussion and a hearing is scheduled for February 17th.
Photo: BET
Disclosure: BET advertises with Burb Media’s sites