Erie architects take 2nd swing at GAF plan

A little more than two years ago, local architects Jeff Kidder and Chip Wachter took their shot at creating a redevelopment plan for the 12.5 acres along Erie's west bayfront that was once home to the GAF Materials Corp.

Their proposal, which promoted a dense, urban atmosphere and suggested a mix of recreational, retail and residential options for the site, generated significant buzz at public meetings and on social media.

No one asked Kidder and Wachter to create their plan; they said they did so because they care about Erie's future.

The property's owner, Erie Events, had spent time and money creating its own preliminary concept for the site, but it paid attention to what Kidder and Wachter created.

Now the two architects have a tangible stake in the waterfront parcel's future.

Their firm, Kidder Wachter Architecture & Design, has been hired by Erie Events -- until recently known as the Erie County Convention Center Authority -- to develop a new concept plan for the former GAF site, aimed at detailing the best use for the property.

The firm is being paid between $85 and $145 per hour for its work, and its fees are not to exceed $100,000, said Chuck Iverson, Erie Events' director of finance and administration.

Neither Kidder nor Wachter would disclose details of the concept plan, which will be unveiled in spring.

They did say, however, that their plan will include a mixed-use concept that includes housing, retail, offices and green space, as well as the layout for roads, sidewalks, streetlights and underground utilities at the site.

It will also suggest the best ways to complement the nearby Bayfront Convention Center and Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, as well as the $54 million Courtyard by Marriott and parking garage project under construction in that area.

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Erie architects take 2nd swing at GAF plan