[hhunter]

This is an interesting development!

I'm torn. I really like:
- using the space (Little Italy needs an entrance that's more interesting then parking lots!)
- how aesthetically interesting the building could be (the stacked cards thing is neat)
- density in such a great spot (though if they're huge units like the last proposal then the added density isn't that high)
- spurring more development in the immediate area!

I'm less keen on:
- the complete disregard for the plan to build an 'Italian Village' themed, retail-based mainstreet. I wonder if there's a way to have a crazy tall, interesting building, and still work within the BIA and community's vision... I'm sure there is, its just a question of whether or not the developer will take the time to figure out what that would look like.
- the possibility of bait and switch seems high here -- if the site is rezoned because the project is seen as innovative, then some of the more innovative elements are dropped

We'll see how this one develops! I'm looking forward to it.