Phipps Conservatory’s Bid for Irish Centre Creates Competition for Craft’s Apartment Plan
A new development has emerged in the ongoing debate over the construction of an eight-story apartment building in Squirrel Hill’s Irish Centre. Phipps Conservatory, a renowned institution specializing in horticulture and environmental education, has expressed interest in purchasing the Irish Centre to establish a base of operation for its Homegrown program, which focuses on improving the health and well-being of underserved communities through fresh produce and vegetable gardens.
In a letter addressed to the Pittsburgh Zoning Board of Adjustment, Erica Cochran Hameen, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Phipps Conservatory, outlined the organization’s intentions to acquire the Irish Centre. She explained that utilizing the property as the headquarters for the Homegrown program aligns with zoning requirements and would be a beneficial addition to the neighborhood.
The proposal from Phipps Conservatory received immediate support from Frick Park Friends, a community group that has been actively opposing Craft Development’s apartment plan for the Irish Centre site. Victoria Yann, a member of Frick Park Friends, stated, We feel that it would be a great neighbor, and the impact to Frick Park would be negligible, if at all.
Craft’s attorney, Ray Baum, expressed reservations about Phipps Conservatory’s sudden interest, noting that his client already has an agreement of sale in place for the Irish Centre. Baum dismissed the notion of the Irish Centre being available for sale to another buyer, and he questioned the motives behind Phipps Conservatory’s late entry into the scene. The CEO of Phipps has been strongly against this project from the beginning. He lives about three-quarters of a mile from this project, Baum alleged.
However, Phipps Conservatory did not offer an immediate response to these claims. Frick Park Friends, on the other hand, highlighted the extensive support they have garnered against Craft Development’s proposed apartment complex. The community group revealed that over 3,000 people have signed petitions opposing the project, citing concerns about its massive size and potential impact on the character of the area.
The Pittsburgh Zoning Board of Adjustment is expected to make a decision regarding the requested variances for the apartment building in the coming months. If the variances are rejected and Craft Development’s agreement with the Irish Centre falls through, other potential buyers like Phipps Conservatory may be given the opportunity to negotiate alternative plans.
As this debate unfolds, both sides offer distinct perspectives. While Phipps Conservatory presents a vision of improving community health through sustainable agriculture, Craft Development believes their project is in alignment with the original agreement and responds to the housing needs of the area. Ultimately, the future of the Irish Centre site rests in the hands of the zoning board.
