On May 12th Morningside welcomed the first new commercial development in over thirty years to the neighborhood. Led by real estate developer John Sheerer, President of Juniper Holdings, the building provides 5,000 square feet of modern professional office space in the neighborhood.  The new construction and now occupancy of the building is a true community effort. Project manager Mark DeRose of Chislett Street coordinated numerous local contractors and suppliers, and managed the creation of a first-rate space for the neighborhood. 

Meanwhile, the offices are being occupied by Morningside resident and attorney William Brandstetter of the Avolio & Brandstetter Law Firm, State Representative Dom Costa and District Magistrate Ron Costa.

Space is available for rent. A long-standing vacant and abandoned home, formerly known as 1742 Morningside Avenue, had fallen into disrepair in recent years. Following the creation of the Morningside Business District Concept plan created by residents, Mr. Sheerer, who has renovated several properties in the community in recent years, recognized the opportunity for the corner property. Using the Concept Plan as a template, Sheerer worked with MACC’s Housing Committee and residents of the adjacent area to design a structure that works best for the surrounding community.

Creating positive changes within a community often takes time. From developing a community
vision, to drafting the blueprints for a building, from pounding the last nail or tightening the last screw, to cutting a ribbon and opening the front door for the first time - positive changes also take a community working together.