A new bakery&deli would like to open in the newly-renovated property at 1111 North 25th Street. They have been held up, though, by the city’s requirement for off-street parking. They go before the Planning Board this Wednesday and need your help.

Lorraine Adeeb, a city resident and employee, has put her life savings into what used to be the Tasty Bake on 25th Street. The property, on a stretch of 25th that really needs a cleanup, has been sharply renovated and a tenant has signed a lease to operate a deli and bakery on the bottom floor. Unfortunately, the city will not let them proceed until they have found 10 off street parking spots that are solely for the use of the business.

They have been unable to meet this requirement and in danger of having to scrap the operation. They are seeking a waiver and go before the Planning Board this Wednesday at 1pm. The meeting will be on the 5th floor in the Community Development offices.

The Tasty Bake had been operating at that location since 1974. The previous owner apparently had a gentleman’s agreement to use parking that belongs to the pharmacy across the street. Understandably, the pharmacy does not want to enter into any kind of official agreement that would jeopardize their legal required parking.

There is plenty of on-street parking available on R Street right around the corner from the proposed bakery. This is an area of empty lots and empty houses, an area that needs investment and people. Our community needs retail and services, and 25th Street is a natural commercial corridor.

If you have the time and would like to support their waiver, show up for the meeting or contact someone at Community Development and make your voice heard.