SEPTA Puts Out Feelers for Transit-Oriented Development

Philadelphia’s main transportation authority is putting out a call to developers for a mixed-use project oriented around one of its stations.

SEPTA released a request for proposals for a new development on a three-acre parking lot next to the Ambler train station, the Philadelphia Business Journal reported. The parking lot at 35 West Butler Pike was identified by SEPTA and Ambler Borough as the ideal spot for the new development.

The zoning for the site allows for up to 35 units per acre, which could be expanded to 50 units per acre if bonus requirements are met. In all, a development could house up to 170 units, as well as ground-floor retail. There are additional requirements for sidewalks and open space.

There’s no requirement for affordable housing, but its inclusion is one factor that could trigger a density bonus for a developer. Officials from the borough are hoping there will be an affordable component to the project.

SEPTA is aiming to enter into a 99-year ground lease with the chosen developer. Terms of the lease are expected to play a key role in which company is selected for the gig.

An official for SEPTA said the agency was looking for a developer “with a track record of building this type of development,” highlighting a need for a building that fits with the character of Ambler and connects to the train station.

SEPTA chief planning and strategy officer Jody Holton said there’s already been interest in the site from potential developers. Bids for the project are due by the end of July and the agency will likely take another three to six months to pick a winner from there.

Transportation authorities are looking for developable sites across the country as municipalities try to ease housing and affordability crunches in their towns and cities. In March, SEPTA picked Alterra Property Group to develop a 300-unit project next to the Conshohocken regional rail train station.

SEPTA is also eyeing possible development at the Germantown regional rail train station and at the 69th Street Transit Center.

— Holden Walter-Warner