A tip from SqB left in comments on a previous post about RBR construction progress:
Just a quick note in the Development Downtown department.
Renovations of the building complex on Main St. Between Virginia and Allen are continuing with work eventually leading to a new complex of residential and retail space BNMC.org, 08 Jan 2003)). Contractors Peyton Barlow – the same folks who renovated The Mansion on Delaware and the Elk Terminal lofts – are charged with the task of beautifying this long-neglected location.
I briefly spoke with a someone working on the facade who seemed to also be involved with the project on a level higher than that of a general worker bee. I was told that while asbestos abatement continued inside the only work that could be done was outside, with the restoration of the Main St. facade. Payton Barlow’s goal is to develop the complex into mainly “living areas with space on the lower level for retail,” the results of which to be seen sometime “within the next year.”
Though the Elk lofts initially seemed to be left as an island developers continue to take a risk and over time have added additional living spaces, such as the Holling Press Apartments and Ellicott Lofts, as well as new retail, like the wonderful Washington Market, all of which are settling in as new anchors to support the renewed downtown community.
“The City of Good Neighbors” indeed.
Thanks SqB. And keep those tips coming.