We have a disappointing follow-up to a recent report. The city announced today that the Stone Soap Building, which was to be developed, will be demoed in the next week.
Demo includes the two-story and four-story buildings at 1460 and 1490 E. Franklin. The city says that a recent report by building inspectors shows, "failed beams, a collapsing roof and falling masonry, among other serious issues." It sits next to an active business - Steve's Soul Food and across from the Orleans Landing apartment buildings.
In 2017, Banyan Investments was chosen from an RFP process to redevelop the site. The plan would have added new construction on top of the rehabbed brick buildings, with condos, apartments, and retail, including an open market. Plans never materialized.
The original building was built in 1907, with an addition added in the 1920s. It was abandoned in the mid 90s. The Adamo Group is set to demo the property.
The East Riverfront has many old brick buildings that could be redeveloped (think Toronto's Distillery District), but plans haven't taken off. A large plan was announced for the area in 2017 and many of the projects - Greenways, Atwater Beach, and streetscaping - have taken place.
