As the Short North continues to rapidly evolve, one specific intersection stands out as the epicenter of growth due to a number of recently completed and proposed developments: Hubbard and High. The mixed use development known as “The Hub” was completed in 2013, accompanied by a new parking-garage behind it. The Wood Companies has proposed two additional projects only a half block from the intersection with Hubbard Park Place on the Victorian Village side and Parkside on Pearl on the Italian Village side.
Next up is a proposal from Elford Development that would see the replacement of Haiku’s surface parking lot at the southeast intersection of Hubbard and High with a multistory building that could house a mix of retail, office and residential and parking.
“As we start the development plan, we’re looking to get some input from the commissioners as to what they’re looking for and what the goals for the property should be,” said Mike Fitzpatick, President of Elford Development. “So we have the typical site plans but no specific details.”
Fitzpatrick said that he does anticipate a stronger demand for office space compared to other projects in the area, thanks to the proximity to the Hubbard Parking garage, which he says is busy on weekends but relatively underutilized during typical work week hours.
“There’s a lot of capacity there during the day, so we’re trying to take advantage of that and balance the demand for parking,” he explained.
The proposal will be presented for the first time to the Italian Village Commission during tonight’s monthly meeting. Preliminary input thus far from commissioner Jason Sudy has been positive.
“We want to see a design, but something in line with Parkside or The Hub seems reasonable,” said Sudy. “I’d like to see the two curb cuts on Hubbard moved to Pearl. And it’s interesting that the proposal doesn’t include The Haiku building as well — we always thought it would be replaced at some point.”
Fitzpatrick explained that the redevelopment of the land is a collaborative project with the family that owns Haiku, and while they may eventually see that building being demolished for a larger development, it doesn’t make sense to do it now with the restaurant continuing to be a very successful business.
“It’s harder to justify land cost when knocking down high performing entities,” he stated. “But I think they realize that the surface lot can’t stay a surface lot. It doesn’t meet development guidelines of the area.”
For ongoing updates and discussion on this development, CLICK HERE to visit our Messageboard.