The first phase of Hankin Group’s River Station in Downingtown is nearing completion, and like much of Hankin’s developments, it’s focused on community and people, writes Paul Schwedelson for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

Located on the site of the former Sonoco Products Co. paper mill, the $80 million community sits west of the Boot Road and Brandywine Avenue intersection. According to vice president of development Neal Fisher, River Station is set to be transformative for the borough. The once-dormant land has received a lift that sends a message of success due to its focus on people, not vehicles, said Fisher.

Multiple amenities within walking distance of the community make it alluring to potential residents. Not only is it within walking distance of the Downingtown train station, there are also numerous trails and the Johnsontown Park within reach.

As for River Station itself, the first phase will have three buildings with a total of 203 apartments and 9,300 square feet of retail space. The first building has 64 apartments and 5,100 square feet of retail. The second has 72 apartments and 4,200 square feet of retail. Meanwhile, third building has 67 apartments.

There will be 91 one-bedroom units starting at $1,920 per month. 107 two-bedroom units will start at $2,475. Finally, the only five three-bedroom units will start at $3,500 per month.

Residents could move in as soon as late January or early February.

Phase two of River Station will have 60 apartments and 5,000 square feet of retail space sitting on the east side of Brandywine Avenue. There is no definitive construction start time as Hankin Group will wait on market conditions.

Read more about phase one in the Philadelphia Business Journal.