Wilmorite, the development company that operates the major local shopping malls, says it has a new concept for Schoen Place in Pittsford.
The company has a tentative design for a mixed-use complex that would include a boutique hotel, a spa, a restaurant, offices and other amenities.
Wilmorite President Paul Wilmot says it would involve a New England farm-style design that would stay true to the historic integrity in the Village of Pittsford. The property is currently owned by the Powers family and Wilmorite is under contract to buy the land if the project moves ahead.
Wilmot tells WXXI News that walkability is also important to the development of this project.
“We’ve got sidewalks throughout our project, they connect in with the existing Erie (Canal) walkways. I think that’s one of the things that lured us to this site was the fact that you can not only be at our property but we’re walking distance to all the other restaurants and shops within Schoen Place.”
Wilmot says they would like to take advantage of the historic nature of that area.
“In the very front of the project is an historic building that is a grain weigh station, and we’ve actually discussed this with the mayor, taking that, improving it and creating a space that can be an educational space to give a little history on the village of Pittsford and the Erie Canal," Wilmot said.
Mayor Bob Corby says a number of approvals are still needed, but he thinks this project could really enhance that property.
“Schoen Place comprises the largest authentic collection of canal-era mills, warehouses and barns in any village along the canal in New York State. So to have the potential rehabilitation of that site with a more active commercial use is pretty exciting," Corby said.
Wilmot says the approval process will likely take several months, and construction would take about a year.
