On the May 2nd agenda for Ambler’s Borough Council is a hearing involving a proposed ordinance that if adopted would allow for apartments to be built in the area surrounding the train station. The proposed ordinance would replace the transit-oriented development language that is currently in Ambler’s code that limits transit-oriented development to properties that have frontage along the railroad tracks. The new language would change this to be a specific proximity to the train station (proposed to be 800 feet).

If you aren’t familiar, transit-orient development is used to build density around transportation hubs. Montgomery County has been encouraging municipalities with train stations to pass these types of ordinances. Ambler actually adopted one of the first transit-focused ordinances in 1996, so in this case, Ambler is amending an existing ordinance.

The amendment is being sought by Summit Realty Advisors, which seeks to build a 92-unit apartment building at 9 North Maple Street. Summit Realty Advisors has a history of redeveloping properties in the area of the train station. It renovated the boiler house building into office space and built the 114-unit apartment community The Crossings at Ambler Station (Disclosure – The Crossings is an advertiser on AroundAmbler.com).

The hearing will be held on May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at Ambler’s Borough Hall.

Rendering – Shows proposed Summit Realty Advisors apartment building at 9 North Maple Street