The Benchmark Group is pursuing an infill project at its surface parking lot located between Globe Market and 7-11. According to the Zoning Board of Appeals agenda for March 28, a three-story mixed-use building is planned that would include three to four storefronts, 24 upper floor apartments, and accessory parking. Amherst-based Benchmark owns a number of area commercial and residential properties including the Stuyvesant Plaza on Elmwood at North and the retail building housing Spot Coffee and Blockbuster Video across from the site at 765 Elmwood.
Karl Frizlen, project architect, says the new building will adhere to the Elmwood Village Design Standards. The project does need a variance for the residential density that is being proposed. Frizlen has designed and/or developed several Elmwood Village projects including 448 Elmwood, 504 Elmwood and the apartments at 305 W. Utica Street. Reached by phone, he says he does not have renderings or plans to release at this point.
“We are going to pursue the variance for the residential and then submit detailed plans for Planning Board approval,” says Frizlen. “We hope it is going to happen.”