Inside the $350 million plan to reignite Steelton
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A map of the proposed Steelton Village development on South High Street. Image courtesy of MKSK
A repurposed fire truck factory just a few miles south of downtown is slated to become the centerpiece of a new 36-acre community.
Driving the news: Developers announced a plan yesterday for Steelton Village, a mixed-use neighborhood with 1,000 apartments, plus entertainment and commercial space.
- The project will surround The Fort, a factory-turned-business hub.
- Justin McAllister, owner and president of furniture business Fortner, acquired the 130-year-old building in 2017 and repurposed it with help from developer Kyle Katz.
Why it matters: The pair tell Axios the $350 million expansion will breathe new life into an overlooked historic area along South High Street and add desperately needed housing units.
- 75% of commercial space will be in repurposed buildings, while housing will all be new construction.
Flashback: In the early 1900s, Steelton was a booming industrial district anchoring nearby neighborhoods like Merion Village, but the area has been underutilized in recent decades.
What's next: As the developers wait for rezoning approval from the city, The Fort is leasing more space to new tenants.
- New York-based winery and concert venue City Winery will open its first Ohio location at the site by next year, along with art-focused craft brewery Honest Friend Brewing.
šµ The intrigue: Steelton Village will emphasize live music, with outdoor performance areas planned and all restaurants, bars and taprooms encouraged to include stages.
