June 24, 2021
Schuylkill Yards Mixed-Use Tower—3025 JFK—Breaks Ground
Milestone moment spotlights expanding Life Science ecosystem in University City & community engagement initiatives in West Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA (June 24, 2021) – Today, Brandywine Realty Trust and Drexel University marked the commencement of construction of 3025 JFK, the first vertical development within Schuylkill Yards – a $3.5 billion innovation neighborhood in University City – with a groundbreaking ceremony featuring state and local dignitaries and project partners. The 570,000 square foot mixed-use building dubbed The West Tower at Schuylkill Yards will add a mix of residential rental units, life science and innovation office space, retail, and indoor/outdoor amenity spaces to the master-planned neighborhood being developed by Brandywine Realty Trust, in partnership with Drexel University.
“The momentum that Brandywine Realty Trust and Drexel University continue to create with Schuylkill Yards has remained a key component to the forward trajectory of Philadelphia’s economic growth and development and further strengthens our city’s position as a life sciences industry leader,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “Following a challenging year, the groundbreaking of The West Tower at Schuylkill Yards marks a positive milestone for Philadelphia and the West Philadelphia community, and we are eager to watch as it takes shape.”
In line with Schuylkill Yards’ emphasis on innovative architecture & design, placemaking, and community, The West Tower is designed as part of a duo by global architecture firm, Practice for Architecture and Urbanism (PAU), along with HDR, Inc. as the Executive Architect. Its brick base and arches nod to Philadelphia’s rich history, while metal details highlight the site’s industrial origins and nearby rail line. The shape of the tower optimizes natural light and views to the North and South.
“This mixed-use tower comes at a critical moment in time where work and personal enjoyment are blended seamlessly within our daily lives, and where the power of physical space has never been more paramount in bringing people together to collaborate, build sense of community and define culture. The experiences found within The West Tower are designed to propel businesses and individuals forward in their path to success and satisfaction, and we couldn’t be more delighted to ultimately welcome them to Schuylkill Yards” said Jerry Sweeney, President & CEO of Brandywine Realty Trust.
The Tower features market-leading standards of design excellence including light-infused space, flexible 29,000 square foot floorplates, and expansive and unobstructed views. Responding to current and future demand drivers accelerated by COVID-19, it is optimized for fresh air intake, filtration and circulation, features state-of-the-art mechanical and building systems, and boasts plentiful amenity and collaboration spaces. The residential component is being developed in conjunction with the Gotham Organization, where 326 residences will reflect today’s evolving live/work lifestyle with flexible unit layouts and high-end finishes. The building’s heart lies in its 29,000 square foot Lifestyle Club on the ninth floor, which features fluid indoor and outdoor experiences including lounge, conference and co-working spaces, an upscale fitness center, a terrace with a lap and recreation pool, cabanas, grilling stations, and more.