Office, retail building proposed for abandoned gas station site
A long-abandoned gas station on Washington Street may finally be redeveloped.
Real estate appraiser Robert P. Clark, who says his client is poised to buy the property at 4244 Washington St., and architect Richard T. Grinnell will unveil plans for a three-story office and retail building during a community meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Monday at the Roslindale Community Center.
Clark declined to reveal his client's name but said he is within weeks of acquiring the parcel. The property's current owner is listed as Konstantinos Giannarikas. Clark said the Social Security Administration is lined up to occupy the second floor of the proposed 25,000-square-foot building with 16 parking spots in the rear.
For years, city officials have tried and failed to put a lien on the property, but were finally able to remove graffiti and abandoned cars from the site in March 2007.
"This parcel has been an eyesore for too long and a project that complements Roslindale's commercial district is a top priority for the residents, neighborhood, civic organizations, and the mayor's office," said David McNulty, neighborhood coordinator for Roslindale. "The current proposal is the first significant idea forwarded to the city in several years."
The library, which abuts the property, has hoped for years to expand onto the property, which is valued at $374,900, according to city records.
"I brought that up to the BRA at one of the meetings," Clark said. "They didn't think that would happen in a timely fashion. . . . It would've been all right with us but I don't think the timeliness of putting the whole thing together would work."
JUSTIN RICE 