Two local developers have proposed the construction of a “boutique” complex – a town-center-style apartment building – in Berwyn at the site of Handel’s, with the beloved ice cream shop at its core, writes Erin McCarthy for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

David Della Porta, of Villanova-based Cornerstone Tracy, and Todd Pohlig, of Malvern-based Pohlig Custom Homes, approached Easttown Township officials with preliminary plans for the development. They presented their ideas to the township’s zoning hearing board, hoping to get approval for a slightly larger project than is allowed under the current code.

The plan calls for a four-story, 150,000-square-foot mixed-use development. Handel’s and one or two more smaller retailers would be located on the ground floor. Meanwhile, the upper floors would have luxury apartments, with a public plaza in the middle. Additionally, there would be a two-story, 228-space parking garage.

Buck Buchanan, Handel’s owner, believes he would not benefit financially if Handel’s became part of a larger development. However, as a community member, he would be happy to welcome the project.

“I believe this would be great for the community,” he said. “If this doesn’t get approved, I don’t know if anything will ever happen there.”

Read more about the planned development in Berwyn in The Philadelphia Inquirer here.

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