New Life for Seven-Story High-Rise Project?

A new developer has stepped forward to revitalize plans for a high-rise condominium complex for downtown Safety Harbor that won approval five years ago.

Farhod Nikjeh is poised to build the seven-story Harbour Pointe Village Project, according to the Tampa Bay Times. He just needs the Safety Harbor City Commission to extend the deadline for starting construction.

The City Commission will review his request on Aug. 5. 

At issue is a 48-unit condominium complex at S Bayshore Boulevard and Main Street that won city permits in 2008, prior to the owner going into bankruptcy. 

Nikjeh says he's prepared to buy the distressed property, which Wells Fargo took over, but he first needs to the commission to extend the construction deadline by nine months; it is now set for Nov. 17.

According to a real estate listing, the property and approved development plan is listed for $1.98 million.

Whether the commission will look favorably on the project is another issue. Among the questions about the project:

• Will it obstruct breezes from Tampa Bay?
• Will it contribute to traffic congestion downtown?
• Is it harmonious with other development on Main Street?

The developer recently came before the zoning board, which is recommending that the city commission approve the project – if the height is lowered to 55 feet, which will conform to other Main Street buildings. 

Here is the description of the property on the Sperry Van Ness website:

What do you think of the project? Let us know in the comments below.

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