What a nine-story, Capitol Hill auto row era-styled building at Pike and Belmont will look like

A transformative redevelopment project is proposed at the corner of E Pike and Belmont, where a new 9-story building aims to replace the existing structure that houses Kaladi Brothers Coffee and Gay City. Developer Hunters Capital and architects Meng Strazza plan to preserve the façade of the current building while introducing 92 residential units and 7,500 square feet of commercial space. The project will also include 53 car parking spaces and 89 bike parking spaces, promoting sustainable transportation options. Under the city's Mandatory Housing Affordability program, the developer will pay fees in lieu of including affordable housing units on-site, contributing to the creation of low-income units elsewhere in the city. The design features a unique architectural element where the building will recess inward after the first two stories, enhancing its character and maintaining a pedestrian-friendly scale.

An early design review meeting showed general support for the project, reflecting a community interest in revitalizing the Capitol Hill area. Additionally, the development aligns with Hunters Capital's ongoing efforts to enhance the neighborhood, including a similar project at a former service station site. This redevelopment signifies a crucial step in preserving the historical essence of Capitol Hill's auto row while adapting to modern needs.