Today is was confirmed that phase two of the re-development of the former Olinger Mortuary site in the Lower Highlands is moving forward.  Developer Paul Tamburello and his partner Stephanie Garcia secured $2.1 million in private financing for the project from investors after they were unable to get a traditional bank loan.  This is the same team who a few years ago completed phase one that now is home to LoLa, Vita and Little Man Ice Cream.

Having been to LoLa and Vita many times I am very excited about the possibilities of what will occupy the 18,000+ SF building located at the corner of W 30th Ave. & Umatilla.  Already confirmed is a restaurant that will take up half of the second floor (approx. 5,500 SF) and have a huge rooftop patio underneath the giant Olinger sign - very cool.  Since this building is about 40 ft taller than the one housing LoLa and Vita, the views of the Downtown skyline will be stunning.  The chef and concept of the restaurant are TBD. 

Other plans for the site include a plaza in between the buildings along 30th and around Little Man that would be a community gathering place that could be programmed for movies etc.  A 7,800 SF ground floor space could be split into two or be occupied by a single tenant - possibly a market.  Phase one of the project served as a catalyst for this neighborhood and it will be exciting to see this site evolve in the coming months.