Plans to Rezone Property in New Kensington for Commercial …
New Kensington’s city council has voted to initiate a rezoning process for a property near downtown with the aim of promoting more commercial development in the area. The targeted parcel, located at Constitution Boulevard and Seventh Street, is currently zoned for light industrial use. However, there is a growing interest in capitalizing on the city’s downtown revitalization efforts for additional commercial ventures.
Previously, focus was placed on the specific property at 700 Constitution, which was once home to General Electric, Jones & Laughlin Steel, and Metalworking Machinery. The demolition of the buildings in 2018 revealed the locally famous “I (heart) Biff” graffiti. Real estate agent Marvin Birner, who is also a member of the city’s planning commission, suggested that the rezoning should encompass the entire light industrial area bounded by Constitution Boulevard, Seventh Street, Freeport Road, Short Street, and Ridge Avenue. This area also includes residential houses and a church alongside the industrial structures.
Motivated by a withdrawn application to use the land for storage purposes, the city decided to seek a zoning change. City engineer Tony Males emphasized that while commercial zoning offers flexibility for various uses, such as a grocery store, it would not permit storage facilities. The proposal will undergo review and recommendations by the planning commission.
It is worth noting that a few years ago, the planning commission had previously voted in favor of changing the zoning to commercial. However, no action was taken at the time, and the reasons behind this delay remain unclear. The property’s former owner, Rufus F. Duff, who founded Metalworking Machinery, recently passed away. His son, Jim Duff, the executor of his estate, has expressed a desire for the property to be an asset to the city and hopes that it will accommodate something beneficial to the community.
Overall, the rezoning plans present an opportunity to enhance the commercial landscape of New Kensington’s downtown, aligning with the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts. The infusion of new businesses, along with the possibility of a grocery store, could contribute to a more vibrant and economically thriving community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the purpose of the rezoning process in New Kensington?
The rezoning process aims to change the current light industrial zoning of a property near downtown New Kensington to a more flexible general commercial zoning to facilitate commercial development in the area.
2. Why is the city seeking a zoning change?
The city decided to seek a zoning change after an application for storage use on the property was withdrawn. The city officials believe that commercial development, rather than storage facilities, would be more suitable and beneficial for the area.
3. What are some of the potential uses allowed under commercial zoning?
Commercial zoning offers a range of potential uses, including retail establishments, office spaces, restaurants, and other commercial ventures. However, storage facilities would not be permitted under the proposed commercial zoning.
4. What was the previous recommendation by the planning commission regarding the zoning change?
A few years ago, the planning commission had voted in favor of changing the zoning to commercial. However, no action was taken at that time, and the reasons for the delay are unknown.
5. Who owns the property in question?
The property was previously owned by Rufus F. Duff, founder of Metalworking Machinery. After his passing, his son Jim Duff, who is the executor of his estate, has expressed a desire to work with the city to find a beneficial use for the property.