What on Earth? A Case for the Neighborhood Investigator

Doug Howe, a partner at Touchstone Development, explained that the bright yellow material that can be seen right now on the new six-story building on Northgate Way and 3rd Avenue Northeast is styrofoam insulation that will be covered by a permanent metal skin painted in different colors.

"This will be a vibrant, alive building," said Touchstone design partner Shawn Parry. According to Parry, community members said they wanted something exciting, with a Times Square feel to it. Channeled neon signage will be integral to the building's design, Parry said.

Touchstone is also making substantial street improvements including creation of a brand new street, Northeast 112th Street, between 3rd and 5th Avenues Northeast. Installation of curbs and landscaping is just getting underway. The sidewalk on Northgate Way will be 19 feet wide from the curb to the edge of the building, with part of the sidewalk sheltered by the building overhang.

A Target department store will occupy the two upper floors, with escalators leading up directly from the street level plaza. Several smaller stores including restaurants and cafes are slated for the first floor. The building is scheduled to open in October.

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