[ back ]
Commercial business grows in industrial district
(by Joan Demirjian - December 09, 2009)
Commercial business grows in industrial district
By JOAN DEMIRJIAN
New businesses are being established in a district zoned for industry on East Washington Street in South Russell.
Village Building Commissioner David Hocevar said activity in that area has been on the rise.
Most visible is the reconstruction of a former restaurant building that is being renovated and rebuilt for a Paninis restaurant. The building has been vacant for four years and has been the site of several previoius restaurants.
Kevin McCrone, who is a partner in the restaurant and is working on the reconstruction, said opening of the new eatery is expected at the end of February.
The existing building has been completely gutted, Mr. McCrone said. "Nothing is left," he said of the interior walls.
A major transition is under way with new side and front entrances being built. At a South Russell Village board of zoning appeals meeting last spring, Mr. McCrone said some $400,000 of improvements were planned for the building.
A terrace room is being added to the west side of the building, where gatherings of 50 to 60 people can be held throughout the years. "It will be a year-round party facility," Mr. McCrone said. A patio also is being constructed for outside dining in the summer.
An addition on the back of the building will make space for walk-in coolers.
The building will be 5,000 square feet, with a seating capacity of about 140, Mr. McCrone said.
The building was occupied by a Paninis several years ago, he said, and over the years was home to other restaurants, including Rosie's and Biscotti's.
In its reconstruction, the roof line has been changed and the outside will be faced with stone, Mr. McCrone said.
He is building the restaurant with his son Christopher and Mike Regabuto. "We will manage the restaurant," Mr. McCrone said.
The former Milbar property has been rebuilt and a day care, yoga center and dance studio are occupying some of the spaces.
There is space for another six businesses in the building, Mr. Hocevar said.
Investment in the commercial district is important to the village for revenue, according to village officials.
South Russell Solicitor David Ondrey has recommended looking at the zoning for adjustments, Mr. Hocevar said.
Mayor Matt Brett has said the goal is to help the area thrive and to attract new businesses there.
[ back ]
