Many people are wondering about the status of the work being done at Lynwood Center on the Pleasant Beach Village development. Here’s the scoop:
The Manor House, previously known as Edna’s, Pleasant Beach Grill and Oyster House, Ruby’s and The Manor House (back in the 80’s; I worked there in high school as a hostess), is being revived as a community events center. It will host many occasions like weddings, conferences, parties, etc. The first floor interior is being completely redone and will have a whole new look, more closely resembling the building’s library. Exterior improvements will include fireplaces and covered areas. They are hopeful to start taking reservations in the next few weeks in anticipation of a December opening. This is Phase one of the project.
Street Level. Phase 2 will encompass buildings 1 through 4 along Lynwood Center drive. Developer John Jacobi and architect Charlie Wenzlau are partnering on the plan for the exterior finishes, which will be applied over the course of this winter and spring. I’ve heard rumors of very interesting water features as well.
Inn. They are working with the city on zoning for a small inn on the property. The city is reportedly, being very supportive and is pushing this paperwork along. When that is in place, part of building 4 will be converted into an eight or nine room inn. How perfect that will be for hosting out of town guests for weddings, conferences, etc. or even for out of town family and friends visiting beautiful Bainbridge Island.
Commercial. They are actively seeking commercial tenants for all four buildings, where they have 10,000+ feet to lease. Currently, they are in discussion with a brew pub, yoga studio, spa and other potential tenants. They are hoping to assemble a group of tenants to complement and serve the local community. So if anyone has a dream of being an island merchant, give a ring and look into it.
Residential. By next spring, they hope to be renting 12 residential units ranging from 1,500 sq. ft. to over 2,000 sq. ft. Their goal is to create an option for people who want to downsize, be in a dynamic and active community and who do not want to deal with the challenges of condominiums (and their associations).
Future Plans. Still in the planning phases is a building across from the main structures that will offer an additional tract of rental units (smaller and more affordable than what will be available across the street). In addition, they have begun to plan for a number of cottages to be built in the northwest quadrant of the project and sold as single family homes.
Lots to look forward to! As someone who grew up in the south end of the island, I’m thrilled to see all this activity in my old stomping grounds.