The highly anticipated Union Square mixed-use project located on Historic 25th Street is under construction and progressing well. After a March groundbreaking ceremony, final paper work was completed, contracts were signed and excavation crews moved on site and began their work. Roger Knight Construction, the General Contractor for the building construction, is staging his crews at press time and it is estimated that buyers can move into their new homes within six months.

Union Square is a 60 townhome development that also includes 14 retail bays located on 25th Street between Lincoln and Wall Avenues. The first phase of the development includes 14 townhomes on 25th Street, the 14 retail bays and 16 courtyard townhomes. Prices range from the mid $130s up to $250,000 for the larger units that include a retail space. As of today, eleven townhomes in the first phase have been reserved and sales agents are working with a number of others interested in purchasing.

The fourteen two-story townhomes above the retail spaces on 25th Street have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full-sized kitchen, living room and French balconies. Buyers may choose to purchase the residences separate from the retail although the configuration makes it ideal for business owners who desire to live above their retail spaces. The retail spaces range in size from 750 to over 900 square feet. Bays can be connected to increase the size of the retail space. Prices begin at $146,500 for the residences and $90,000 for a standard retail bay.

The first phase also includes 16 courtyard townhomes behind the 25th Street townhomes. All the residences will consist of two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Both one and two car garages are available. Each townhome will also have a third story loft and outdoor deck. The lofts will be unfinished allowing the homebuyer to determine how best to use the space. The units will face a common area “courtyard” with the garages on the rear of the building served by a lane. The courtyard will be a landscaped area with sidewalks, planters, benches and perhaps a small play area for children. All townhomes will have a patio on the main level, at least one balcony on the second level and a deck off the loft on the third level. Prices range from $136,500 to $156,500.

The developer, Proterra Companies, Inc. of Salt Lake City is anxious to see people living and shopping at Union Square. “Twenty-fifth Street is one of those rare places in the country where you can find and feel old town charm. We are thrilled to be a part of such an exciting place,” says Charles W. Akerlow, President and CEO of Proterra. “We look forward to the day when you will see people strolling up and down the street, people shopping at existing stores and the new stores and Union Square, and people living in the center of everything. It Is what makes a city exciting.”

Jo Packham, President of the Historic 25th Street Alliance and also the owner of Ruby and Begonia located on Historic 25th Street, believes that Union Square will be a key component of the success of 25th Street. “Union Square will act as a bridge between the 100 and 200 blocks on 25th Street. Before there was such a gap. People would drive down the street to go to Union Station and miss so much of what 25th Street has to offer. With Union Square and the many other shops and restaurants, people have a reason to walk up and down the street, browse through the stores and have an enjoyable experience. Union Square is the critical item that will help 25th Street become a destination.”

Packham also acknowledges Proterra’s involvement in the future of 25th Street. We are so pleased at the investment and confidence that Proterra has in Ogden and Historic 25th Street.”

Proterra thanks the leaders of Ogden for making Union Square a reality and acknowledges the city’s great interest in revitalization. “The city is behind us completely on the Union Square project,” Akerlow says. “We understand and encourage their vision of the future of Ogden and are glad we could play a role in that.”

The City of Ogden has been working closely with Fannie Mae to provide different mortgage packages designed for a wide arrange of buyers at Union Square. Those interested in such financing should speak with either Al Belt of Grubb & Ellis | Utah Realty at 801-355-9120 or Chris Jensen or Jan Cottle of Prudential First Choice Real Estate at 801-476-0055.

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