The Times Herald (Norristown, PA)
Public meetings set on state hospital redevelopment
Forums scheduled for March 14, March 20 at Municipal Hall
NORRISTOWN >> Area residents will get a glimpse into plans to develop 68 acres of land on the grounds of the Norristown State Hospital during two community meetings later this month.
The sessions are scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. on March 14 and noon on March 20 at Municipal Hall, 235 E. Airy St.
“These meetings will be the first of many opportunities for our residents to shape the biggest redevelopment project in our
The Norristown State Hospital property is pictured as the request for proposals process gets underway.
town’s history,” said Municipal Council President Thomas Lepera in a statement. “Community input is key for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring new housing and employment opportunities to Norristown.”
The land conveyance on the historically stateowned acreage was around six years in the making, with an agreement of sale between the state and local entities reached in November
2022 and formalized in February 2023, according to a municipal spokesperson. While Norristown is the recipient of the land, the Redevelopment
Authority is currently in possession of the property on behalf of the municipality.
The Preserve at Stony Brook was selected for the mixed-use development project in December 2023. Pinnacle Realty Development Company was selected as lead developer on the project, but a municipal spokesperson previously said additional partners will be enlisted to assist with several facets of the project including architecture, construction and engineering.
Pinnacle Realty Development Company President Anthony Maras is expected to give a presentation at each meeting. Public participation is encouraged at both meetings for developers to take residents’ input into consideration, according to municipal officials.
“We are really excited for this opportunity. I encourage everyone —council, staff and the community— to give us your feedback,” Maras said at the December 2023 council meeting.