Variance for Flagstaff revival plan

A Jim Thorpe businessman has cleared the first hurdle in reviving a once-popular area attraction.

Andrew Roberts was granted permitted use, setback and height variances Monday night by the municipal zoning hearing board for a Flagstaff Park project that would feature a five-story, 45-room hotel and restaurant, ballroom, Ferris wheel and 340-space parking lot. The cornerstone of the project, however, is a gondola system connecting the park to downtown Jim Thorpe.

“There is no possibility the property could be developed while conforming to the current zoning ordinance,” Roberts told the board. “We need all of these components to come together to make this economically viable.”

The hotel, restaurant, gondola, Ferris wheel and accessory restroom structure are not permitted uses in the R-2 zoning district under the current ordinance, making the variances necessary for the project to move forward.

Roberts also received a rear setback variance, reducing the required 30-foot setback to 20 feet.

Height variances were also required since the hotel is planned for 60 feet and the Ferris wheel 70 feet, both more than the allowed 35 feet.

The proposed gondola would run 2,600 feet from Flagstaff to the intersection of Race and High streets, where Roberts would also renovate a stone barn.

“We would have the capability of moving about 300-350 people per hour,” Roberts said. “I think that has a lot of positives. It revives Flagstaff, but it also helps alleviate traffic congestion while still getting more visitors downtown.”

History is on Roberts’ side as the site was home to a Ferris wheel as far back as 1915, when visitors were transported there by trolley. The property, however, has been subdivided down to what Roberts called “8 good acres” over the years.

Neighboring property owners near the gondola landing area have noted their support for the project. The gondola system’s motor and backup engine would be located at the Flagstaff end of the ride, meaning the landing area would be reduced to mostly pedestrian noise.

The zoning hearing board’s variances awarded Monday night are contingent upon Roberts receiving land development approval and meeting other state and municipal requirements.

A roomful of Jim Thorpe residents packed Memorial Hall on Monday night to show support for Roberts and the project.

“I spent 10 years in Barnesville and watched the Lakeside Ballroom fall into disrepair,” said Brett Haas. “I would hate to see the same thing happen to a gem like Flagstaff.”

Pam Armstrong would be living about a block away from the gondola landing area.

Not approving the variances for the project, she said, would be a monumental mistake.

“It is exciting and wonderful someone has the energy to take this on,” she said.

Borough Councilwoman Edith Lukasevich said Roberts should be thanked for his endeavor to bring something back to his community.

The project also has the support of the Jim Thorpe Tourism Agency. JTTA President Jennifer Christman called Roberts progressive and a pioneer not unlike Asa Packer.

“The realization of the Flagstaff project will ensure Jim Thorpe remains a top tourist destination for decades to come,” Christman said.

Roberts said the project’s budget includes a half-million dollars for guide rails and improvements to Flagstaff Road, 2 miles in the borough and 1 mile in Mahoning Township.

While an economic impact study is forthcoming, Roberts estimates the project will result in 70-80 jobs and $1.6 million in wages and tips.