CRCDS developer outlines plans for campus 

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Redevelopment of the 23-acre Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School property faces a challenge: producing enough income from new buildings to make it possible to preserve the historic main buildings and the broad lawn on the south side of the campus.

At a meeting with Highland Park area residents Monday night, developer Angelo Ingrassia fleshed out his latest plans for the property. They call for two new market-rate apartment buildings, both five stories tall: one with 115 units, on the northwest side of the campus, and one with 40, on the northeast side.

Among Ingrassia’s plans for the existing buildings: Strong Hall, the largest building, would be marketed for special events, executive offices, and possibly a charter school. Montgomery House would be available as a single residence. Trevor Hall, currently used by the American Cancer Society for temporary housing, could eventually become a small hotel. And Sanders House and Andrew Hall, both newer buildings, together would provide another 28 apartment units.

Ingrassia, who hasn’t yet closed on the property, called it “financially broken.” Redevelopment has to provide a long-term revenue stream to sustain the historic buildings, he said.

Residents raised multiple concerns about the plans, particularly the height of the new buildings and the location of the largest one, south of Highland Parkway houses. That building, some residents said, would “loom” over their homes. Residents suggested that Ingrassia demolish Sanders House and Andrew Hall, which have no historic value, and put the larger apartment building there.

But Ingrassia said to keep the vistas of the South Lawn free of development, he needs rental income from Sanders House and Andrew Hall.

Residents also expressed concern about increased traffic from the additional apartments and the fact that Ingrassia has no plans for affordable housing there.

Ingrassia needs approval for his project from the Zoning Board, Preservation Board, and Planning Board.