Foundmore, a new housing development in Ross Township, is taking final shape, reported John Shumway for KDKA earlier in November. Foundmore is the latest incarnation of a sprawling lot long left vacant by a failed Walmart development almost twenty years ago along McKnight Road in the heart of Ross Township. Today, this lot is poised to become the latest housing complex addition to the tight real estate market across the North Hills of Pittsburgh.
Foundmore aims to become a premier residential destination in the North Hills, offering not only comfortable living spaces but also a range of amenities and thoughtful design elements that foster a strong sense of community.
The Foundmore features 270 units and 17 townhomes, and costs totaling around $60 million to build. In recent interviews, the developer, expressed his excitement about the venture, highlighting its appeal to young professionals and families.
Shawn Fox, a Ross Township native, and partner at RDC Developers, spoke to KDKA about the amenities of Foundmore.
Not only does Foundmore provide comfortable living spaces, but it also accommodates the changing work environment. With the rise of remote work, co-working units are available within the development, offering residents a convenient place to work. Further enhancing the community experience, walking trails and a dog park have been created, allowing residents to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Foundmore rental prices are reported to range from $1,100 to $2,500 per month.
Access Road Concerns
According to KDKA, there are concerns regarding traffic and safety issues due to the nature of access roads that will be used by Foundmore residents. These concerns are largely because vehicle access will be limited to right-hand exits and entrances onto and from the busy southbound traffic lanes of McKnight Road.
Working toward a potential solution, RDC Development and Ross Township reached an agreement to make Kentzel Road, an alley-like road just off Seibert Road, into a one-way street leading towards the Foundmore complex. This decision aims to minimize traffic congestion and ensure the smooth flow of vehicles.
The developer ensures, however, that appropriate measures have been taken to maintain the residents' safety and convenience when accessing McKnight Road. Still, unresolved access road issues remain.
The McKnight Rd. access road, which is directly behind a nearby Verizon store, has yet to receive a highway occupancy permit from PennDOT. Stephanie Zolnak, assistant executive of construction for PennDOT District 11, emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety during this process, acknowledging the ongoing negotiations between RDC and PennDOT.
The unresolved access road concern serves as a secondary means of entry, primarily intended as a private driveway for the residents, KDKA reported.
KDKA reported that PennDOT confirmed its active engagement with the developer to address the access road issue, and that further updates are eagerly anticipated.
Learn More
- Shumway, John. "Foundmore Development Nearing Completion in North Hills". KDKA CBS Pittsburgh.
