Greensburg development company to transform vacant S. PA Ave Building

City Cribs LLC, a property development company comprised of Jeff Begonia, Suzanne Ward, Mike Ward and Tim Zontek, based in Greensburg, purchased the building at 136 S PA Avenue as an investment property.

“There are way too many vacant buildings in town and seeing the history and bones of this building, we knew it was something special,,” said Jeff Begonia “I 100% want to see this area grow, I remember in my teens and 20s how vibrant downtown was. It’s a risk to take on a large property like this but it will be worth it.”

This turn of the century structure was built in 1909 and in the heart of the downtown shopping district. Across the street from the S. PA Parklet, this beautiful building has four floors with over 4,000 square feet on each level and the opportunity for a lower level storage and parking. Previously at 136 S. PA Ave, Chuck Phillips owned Interiors by Phillips for over 30 years but has sat vacant many after that.

First floor of 136 S. PA Ave. Photo: Elise Michaux Photography

“Did you ever walk into a building and say this is the project I have been waiting for to do, this is that project,” said Tim Zontek. ‘We’re excited and have a plan in place for a new store front and apartments. We already have a couple businesses interested in the retail space and the apartments.”

City Cribs plans to transform the dormant structure into 10 apartments as part of their development project, including two, 2 bedroom units and eight, 1 bedroom units, with commercial space on the ground floor. They plan on having a few underground parking spaces and storage in the basement level. The rooftop is another area City Cribs is looking to utilize with a relaxing rooftop garden for tenants to enjoy.

“It is an amazing feeling to be a part of a project that will have a direct positive impact on our community by adding revenue, ancillary jobs, and attracting more young people to the core of Westmoreland County,” said Suzanne Ward. “I’m excited to work with the City of Greensburg and be a part of the revitalization of our downtown area.”

There’s been an influx of movement and inquires about buildings and development projects in downtown Greensburg in the last couple of months. With the RFP out for a downtown hotel, Invisible Man Brewing opening in a few months and many more things happening, South Pennsylvania Avenue and other areas will be looking different in the coming months.

“Greensburg is definitely changing,” said Mike Ward. “I’m extremely excited to be a part of this project and for the future of the city.”

City Cribs is currently going through permitting and will go before HARB (Historic & Architectural Review Board) this month for approval on their plans. They are hoping to begin construction within the next 30 days and have an occupancy permit by the end of 2019. BZ Construction is the general contractor on the project with sub contractors for electric, HVAC and plumbing, which they will be gathering quotes for.