A New Direction…

When we began our journey in Lambertville, it was with a deep appreciation for its historic small-town charm, unique offerings of art and antiquities and authentic walkable adventures.  We saw an opportunity not just to invest, but to sustain and enhance those characteristics by breathing new life into the now defunct Finkle’s properties and integrating them back into the community as a boutique hotel.  We believed this plan would create jobs, generate substantial tax revenue, boost tourism and directly support the many local businesses that make Lambertville special.

In planning our project, we were informed and directed by the City Zoning Code, Master Plan, and Design Guidelines.  Throughout the planning process we made a concerted effort to engage with the community transparently and in good faith.  Sadly, the engagement we sought never materialized.

However, despite the lack of engagement it is abundantly clear that the community has deep concerns and powerful emotions regarding the scale of the hotel project.  As new owners of Boat House and Revolution Woodfire Grille and lifelong community builders we have heard your concerns.  After dutiful consideration we have made the decision to not move forward on our hotel plans for Coryell Street and in conjunction with the property owners, pursue a revised plan that is significantly reduced in scale but still promises an exciting future for the now vacant buildings that line Coryell Street.

·         Former Finkle’s Lighting Store (10 Coryell Street): This property will continue with ground floor retail but will be reoriented to have several new storefronts facing the alley leading back to the Boat House.  The pedestrian experience of the alley will be likewise enhanced with new hardscape, landscape, & lighting improvements creating an intimate retail enclave, aimed at attracting area makers, creators, and entrepreneurs. A new apartment will replace office space on the second floor.

·         Former Strand Theatre (12-14 Coryell Street):  We plan to undertake a certified historic rehabilitation of the Strand Theatre aimed at restoring it to its original purpose of assembly and event space, intended to host performances, films, movies, meetings, parties, and community events.  We are proposing a significantly scaled back event space from the one proposed with the hotel, with limitations on operating hours and other thoughtful measures to insure it remains respectful of neighboring residents.  The fully restored Strand will be a striking architectural presence on Coryell Street.

·         Finkle’s (4 Coryell Street): A fully code compliant surface parking lot will be developed on this site.  Its primary function will be accessory parking in support of the other projects and some elements of public parking.

·         Finkle’s Hardware Store (7 Coryell Street): This property will remain as-is and new tenants will be sought for this space.

It is our hope that this new program, significantly more modest in scope, yet consistent with the historic and current uses, can move us past opposition for its own sake toward a shared goal of meaningful, sustainable progress that will bring lasting benefits to the community.

It has always been our mission to be good neighbors and a powerful force for positive change in the community, just as Brickstone has been in other communities for nearly four decades.  And to be candid, this journey has, at times, been disheartening.  Our businesses, and our employees have faced hostility and personal attacks, even as we sought only to contribute positively and in good faith.  However, we remain committed to being good neighbors and good citizens and we hope this more modest plan represents a new start and a renewed invitation for community engagement.

Thank you,

John Connors and Ron Gorodesky