INDIANAPOLIS | 3 Mass Ave | 10 fl | U/C

[cityfan]

It's a pretty important residential project for downtown, especially since it will help to bridge the gap between the CBD and the other new residential projects around Mass Ave. It's also continuing the trend of denser projects in Downtown Indy. Upon completion, this will be the largest building in the city to feature a green roof, open to building residents as a private park.

I will post some construction photos later.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/cwilson758/Indy%20Pics/3massAve1.jpg

www.3mass.com

[mobyhead]

It might be somewhat pretentious but they also have a webcam on the 3mass.com site.

[cityfan]

It might be somewhat pretentious but they also have a webcam on the 3mass.com site.

Yeah, but their angle is terrible. It's so far away you can't tell what's going on. They might as well not even have it.

[IndyYeah]

It's a pretty important residential project for downtown, especially since it will help to bridge the gap between the CBD and the other new residential projects around Mass Ave. It's also continuing the trend of denser projects in Downtown Indy.

I will post some construction photos later.

http://www.keystone-corp.com/pics/3mass.jpg

www.3mass.com

Has a Texas, maybe Phoenix feel to it. I have always liked this building, wish the webcam would let me stop and look then continue. Maybe I am doing something wrong, nice building..

[IndiexInxIndy]

I find the Phoenix/Texas look reference pretty insulting. No offense. I just like how it has a rad ass Indy feel to it. That's not too weird. Is it? :nuts:

[CorrND]

Yeah, but their angle is terrible. It's so far away you can't tell what's going on. They might as well not even have it.
Just checked out the web cam for the first time. Sure, you can't see anything, but I don't think there's much to see other than site preparations right now.....boring if you ask me.

I think the angle will work well once the building starts to rise.

Also, here's the New York St. elevation:

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3mass_new_york.jpg

[Unionstation13]

I find the Phoenix/Texas look reference pretty insulting. No offense. I just like how it has a rad ass Indy feel to it. That's not too weird. Is it? :nuts:

I think it seems very Indy too, and the way they design it respects the old school indy buildings next door. This will defianitly help development along the avenue.

[arenn]

Also, here's the New York St. elevation:

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3mass_new_york.jpg

Heh, that's the first time I noticed the Frank Lloyd Wright looking thingys on the balconies.

[IndiexInxIndy]

I notice that too! You are implying the red squares or w/e on the balcony yes? Let's hope that's a detail they dont neglect to leave out... :cheers:

[mobyhead]

I was talking to one of the Keystone Construction foremen (not on the 3 Mass project). He said they have a whole bunch of digging to do still for the underground parking garage.

[hoosier]

At least it's U/C now.

It was saddening to see no site activity during the July 7th meetup.

[IndyYeah]

I find the Phoenix/Texas look reference pretty insulting. No offense. I just like how it has a rad ass Indy feel to it. That's not too weird. Is it? :nuts:

Sorry if you are insulted. However the look and area feel like those areas. You see Indy does not get alot of new buildings, and I like Texas and Phoenix alot, so in the picture it kinda has that feel. Again, sorry for the insult, Hope you sleep well tonight!

[IndiexInxIndy]

Any new updates on this rad ass project? :cheers2:

[CorrND]

Still just site prep. They're doing a pretty large excavation around the foundation of the Hammond Block Building. After the problems 745 Pub had with its kitchen partially falling into the 757 Mass Ave pit, the owner of Hammond Block is understandably concerned about the same thing happening to them. I'm guessing the 3 Mass Ave developers are taking no chances with shoring things up before their pit gets too big/deep.

[Unionstation13]

^^ how did that happen? Is the foundation of the 745 hub unstable?
Thats weird, could the old tunnels(sewers of course) under the milesquare have cuased this callapse? Or was it sloppy work?

[moochie]

^^ how did that happen? Is the foundation of the 745 hub unstable?
Thats weird, could the old tunnels(sewers of course) under the milesquare have cuased this callapse? Or was it sloppy work?

Sloppy work. No one to blame but the contractors. They dug a hole all the way up to the building's foundations and didn't reinforce it. From what I remember, the kitchen started showing cracks in the floor hours before the collapse and everyone had plenty of time to evacuate.

[ablerock]

I remember that day! I missed seeing it fall in by minutes. I was working at Yats on Mass at the time and walked by right after it happened.

That site just didn't feel right. Walking into the 745 felt like you were on the side of a cliff. The north facade of the building just went straight down into the pit, no reinforcement. I'm not sure what the developers were thinking.

[Unionstation13]

I remember that day! I missed seeing it fall in by minutes. I was working at Yats on Mass at the time and walked by right after it happened.

That site just didn't feel right. Walking into the 745 felt like you were on the side of a cliff. The north facade of the building just went straight down into the pit, no reinforcement. I'm not sure what the developers were thinking.

I havent been over there, did that awesome gorgeous facade callapse?:bash:

[Unionstation13]

Sloppy work. No one to blame but the contractors. They dug a hole all the way up to the building's foundations and didn't reinforce it. From what I remember, the kitchen started showing cracks in the floor hours before the collapse and everyone had plenty of time to evacuate.

are the developers paying for the damages, and for a sort of sorry?
With all these problems I am think that it would have been just better to construct lowrises of the same brick style and pattern with a height of three to five floors.

[IndiexInxIndy]

are the developers paying for the damages, and for a sort of sorry?
With all these problems I am think that it would have been just better to construct lowrises of the same brick style and pattern with a height of three to five floors.

NO offense but a limit of 3-5 stories would be extra lame! Especially, since this is essentially right downtown. Or atleast damn near it, i believe 7-13 stories would be a much more appropiate limit if there were one... :cheers:

[CorrND]

Unionstation13 -- I'm certain the 757 Mass Ave developers (or their insurers) paid for the damage and then some, in order to compensate the 745 Pub owners for having to close their doors for over a year. The only damage to the pub was in the back kitchen area, which I think I read was actually an addition to the bar room structure.

[Unionstation13]

NO offense but a limit of 3-5 stories would be extra lame! Especially, since this is essentially right downtown. Or atleast damn near it, i believe 7-13 stories would be a much more appropiate limit if there were one... :cheers:

I mean along the avenue to aviod problems and callapses like this.
they got away with 10 stories, but 13 would look ridiculouse and out of place.

and it would be extra extra lame if more old brick buildings callapsed for some 13 story building.

[Unionstation13]

Unionstation13 -- I'm certain the 757 Mass Ave developers (or their insurers) paid for the damage and then some, in order to compensate the 745 Pub owners for having to close their doors for over a year. The only damage to the pub was in the back kitchen area, which I think I read was actually an addition to the bar room structure.

Even if it was the back of the original structure,
I was worried that the nice facade caved in, since i havent been there for the past two weeks.

[IndiexInxIndy]

I mean along the avenue to aviod problems and callapses like this.
they got away with 10 stories, but 13 would look ridiculouse and out of place.

and it would be extra extra lame if more old brick buildings callapsed for some 13 story building.

It's not the height of the building that's the problem. It's that the builders/contractors are using shitty/shoddy foundation techniques. i.e. the Central Library etc. etc. :(

[cityfan]

Even if it was the back of the original structure,
I was worried that the nice facade caved in, since i havent been there for the past two weeks.

This happened a while ago, while they were laying the foundation for 757.

[Unionstation13]

It's not the height of the building that's the problem. It's that the builders/contractors are using shitty/shoddy foundation techniques. i.e. the Central Library etc. etc. :(

true.
But still, the only reason this got away with not looking odd is becuase it has steps, if it was one solid structure that was 10 stories, it would be a laughing stock.

[IndiexInxIndy]

true.
But still, the only reason this got away with not looking odd is becuase it has steps, if it was one solid structure that was 10 stories, it would be a laughing stock.

The design of this is really quite fancy the more i look at it! It really is quite unique come to think of it! :cheers2:

[Unionstation13]

The design of this is really quite fancy the more i look at it! It really is quite unique come to think of it! :cheers2:

I never said it wasent. 0_o

[IndiexInxIndy]

I never said it wasent. 0_o

I was just saying that to anybody who didn't think so. I didn't mean to single you out... x_X

[mobyhead]

I walk by the site everyday on my way into work. They have dug a hole so deep you could barely see the backhole inside of it.

[Unionstation13]

I walk by the site everyday on my way into work. They have dug a hole so deep you could barely see the backhole inside of it.

damn they keep it up, their gonna dig up 1830 malaria victums!:lol:

[IndiexInxIndy]

Any updates yet on this sure-to-be killer project? :)

[CorrND]

Still just site prep -- the pits are getting bigger and deeper. It'll be a while before there's anything really interesting to say/show about this project.

[IndiexInxIndy]

Still just site prep -- the pits are getting bigger and deeper. It'll be a while before there's anything really interesting to say/show about this project.

I would imagine this prep work/deep digging is for the underground parking, correct?

[IndyYeah]

I would imagine this prep work/deep digging is for the underground parking, correct?

Let's see that hole, or site. Not everyday we see a construction site downtown.

[IndiexInxIndy]

I'm back from a slight hiatus... Obviously, there's no news with 3 Mass but is there any progress? Other than that uber huge hole! :lol:

[IndiexInxIndy]

http://www.brookspublications.com/files/GREENROOF.pdf ;-)

[mobyhead]

I'm back from a slight hiatus... Obviously, there's no news with 3 Mass but is there any progress? Other than that uber huge hole! :lol:

I was walking past the site the other day. The parrot outside of Stout Shoes kept saying "Bye Bye, Bye Bye" and across the street you have all these big construction guys repeating, "Bye Bye, Bye Bye'. It was quite comical.

[pig]

I was walking past the site the other day. The parrot outside of Stout Shoes kept saying "Bye Bye, Bye Bye" and across the street you have all these big construction guys repeating, "Bye Bye, Bye Bye'. It was quite comical.

That damned parrot always makes me wish I hadn't sat outside at Bazbeaux, but then I always do it anyway the next time 'cus I like the view.

Also when I first read your comment it sounded like NSYNC in my head and I thought, "Wow they taught the parrot some NSYNC" and then I was ashamed.

[mobyhead]

That damned parrot always makes me wish I hadn't sat outside at Bazbeaux, but then I always do it anyway the next time 'cus I like the view.

Also when I first read your comment it sounded like NSYNC in my head and I thought, "Wow they taught the parrot some NSYNC" and then I was ashamed.

Too Funny!

[CorrND]

I just put up a photo update for 3 Mass Ave on my blog. Here are a handful of shots:

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/2007-103MassAveUnderConst013.jpg

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/2007-103MassAveUnderConst012.jpg

The rest are at:

http://dig-b.blogspot.com/2007/10/develpment-3-mass-ave-construction.html

[mobyhead]

Thanks Man!

[IndyYeah]

Thanks Man!

Wonderful Mobyhead. That one building by the Gold building, seems like it would be a good modern renovation. What is that one? across the digging area? Thanks, SCOTT

[Unionstation13]

Wonderful Mobyhead. That one building by the Gold building, seems like it would be a good modern renovation. What is that one? across the digging area? Thanks, SCOTT

Which one? The ones on the right are the homeless shelter(renovate them SOMEONE!) and the one on the left I think is that knights of the pythias(?) building next to the old city hall(?).

[altfelix]

Which one? The ones on the right are the homeless shelter(renovate them SOMEONE!) and the one on the left I think is that knights of the pythias(?) building next to the old city hall(?).

The building with the remnants of the rooftop water tower is the Wulsin Building. The Pythian Castle is to the left (east) of that, just outside the picture.

[CorrND]

I think this is the angle you guys need for your discussion:

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/2007-103MassAveUnderConst002.jpg

[altfelix]

I think this is the angle you guys need for your discussion:

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/2007-103MassAveUnderConst002.jpg

The backsides of Old City Hall, Pythian Castle (Indiana Bar Center), and Wulsin.

So, I couldn't be absolutely sure from the photos, but it doesn't look like there has been any foundation work yet for this project, right?

[CorrND]

Definitely no foundation work yet. They've still got a lot of digging to do, plus I think they're still shoring up the sides of the pit that they've dug so far.

[cityfan]

How many levels of underground parking are there supposed to be?

[unvrsty07]

WOW! That last photo you posted CorrND just shows how big of an impact those twin Kosene Towers will make at the Market Square site! Once that hole is filled in, that angle from the ground will show one helluva a panoramic shot of the skyline! Great photos btw CorrND!

[Unionstation13]

The old city hall would make an excellent art museum.

[ablerock]

The old city hall would make an excellent art museum.

Or Indianapolis History Museum.

[Unionstation13]

:cheers: Or Indianapolis History Museum.

That would rock.

[ablerock]

:cheers:

That would rock.

Or Rock Museum.

[Unionstation13]

Or Rock Museum.

HELL NO!
That would be incredably tackey to put a rock museum in our historic city hall!(though a rock museum downtown would rock lol).

[NaptownBoy]

The backsides of Old City Hall, Pythian Castle (Indiana Bar Center), and Wulsin.

So, I couldn't be absolutely sure from the photos, but it doesn't look like there has been any foundation work yet for this project, right?
Great photos Chris. :)

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/2007-103MassAveUnderConst002.jpg
This shot demonstrates one of the many voids that need to be filled in. Someone mentioned how the Kosene towers would help to expand the core eastward, and I completely agree.

Firehouse Square is an absolute embarrassment. How the hell did that get approved in the first place?

Now if only we can only get someone to pitch a 12-story for the City Hall site...we'd be in business then.

[Unionstation13]

Great photos Chris. :)

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/2007-103MassAveUnderConst002.jpg
This shot demonstrates one of the many voids that need to be filled in. Someone mentioned how the Kosene towers would help to expand the core eastward, and I completely agree.

Firehouse Square is an absolute embarrassment. How the hell did that get approved in the first place?

Now if only we can only get someone to pitch a 12-story for the City Hall site...we'd be in business then.

Your just trying to piss me off. :lol:
Atleast fire house square is townhouses, its better than a strip mall. slighty...

[NaptownBoy]

Your just trying to piss me off. :lol:
Atleast fire house square is townhouses, its better than a strip mall. slighty...
Actually, I'm serious. The old City Hall has been used for a myriad of functions and has shown its age since the 70's. Once the core expands eastward, it could be sitting on some nice real estate.

Don't get me wrong--if they (potential developers) can find an adaptive re-use for the building, that's fine. I would much rather see that than another Firehouse Square, or a gravel surface lot.

[mobyhead]

A bit off topic. Has anyone ever shopped at Stout's Shoes? It seems to have survived pretty well over the years.

[pig]

A bit off topic. Has anyone ever shopped at Stout's Shoes? It seems to have survived pretty well over the years.

I've bought a few pairs of shoes there. They're pretty good about service if you're into that sort of thing.

[Unionstation13]

double post. poop

[Unionstation13]

Actually, I'm serious. The old City Hall has been used for a myriad of functions and has shown its age since the 70's. Once the core expands eastward, it could be sitting on some nice real estate.

Don't get me wrong--if they (potential developers) can find an adaptive re-use for the building, that's fine. I would much rather see that than another Firehouse Square, or a gravel surface lot.

You've got to be crazy. I'd rather see the old city hall sit on that sight over even a 60 story highrise anyday!
Thats a major chunk of Indy history! We already lost the courthouse.
I'v been inside the old city hall, it is in pretty good shape. It could use some work, but I dont think it needs demolished.
You make it sound as if the old city hall is an eyesore. That structure is of extreme signifigance beyond most structures in downtown Indy(architecture and historical wise).

[NaptownBoy]

You've got to be crazy. I'd rather see the old city hall sit on that sight over even a 60 story highrise anyday!
Thats a major chunk of Indy history! We already lost the courthouse.
I'v been inside the old city hall, it is in pretty good shape. It could use some work, but I dont think it needs demolished.
You make it sound as if the old city hall is an eyesore. That structure is of extreme signifigance beyond most structures in downtown Indy(architecture and historical wise).
I never implied that building was an eyesore at all. What I did imply was that it for the most part, the old City Hall has run its course and once the core densifies, there wont be much practicality of a 4 story building (plus the parking lot) in the immediate core. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but the city's eventually going to expand in that direction.

And like I said, if they can re-use it, that's fine too.

[Unionstation13]

I never implied that building was an eyesore at all. What I did imply was that it for the most part, the old City Hall has run its course and once the core densifies, there wont be much practicality of a 4 story building (plus the parking lot) in the immediate core. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but the city's eventually going to expand in that direction.

And like I said, if they can re-use it, that's fine too.

How far can downtown expand eastward though?
Indianapolis has been very good about historic preservation in its past few years, but I dont think the city hall would be demolished just do to the fact that its the old city hall. Even in the next century when downtown has many more highrises, lowrise historical structures would probably reused, and just added onto(like the Omega communications building is being reused in the penn centre). Downtown will probably expand eastward, untill it reaches Lockerbie and Chatham arch, which are pretty strict historical districts.
I really see downtown expanding southward, big time.

[IndyYeah]

How far can downtown expand eastward though?
Indianapolis has been very good about historic preservation in its past few years, but I dont think the city hall would be demolished just do to the fact that its the old city hall. Even in the next century when downtown has many more highrises, lowrise historical structures would probably reused, and just added onto(like the Omega communications building is being reused in the penn centre). Downtown will probably expand eastward, untill it reaches Lockerbie and Chatham arch, which are pretty strict historical districts.
I really see downtown expanding southward, big time.

Emporis says that city hall was put on the national historic register in 1974. Can these historic buildings eventually be brought down? Out of neglect? Or considered unusable? As many old buildings as possible need to be saved.

[Unionstation13]

Emporis says that city hall was put on the national historic register in 1974. Can these historic buildings eventually be brought down? Out of neglect? Or considered unusable? As many old buildings as possible need to be saved.

I do not approve of keeping a dangerouse unsalvagable structure up because it is historic.
Its possible, many medival structures in Europe today have been torn down do to rotten frames.

[ablerock]

Now if only we can only get someone to pitch a 12-story for the City Hall site...we'd be in business then.

Cease with the crazy-talk! :)

We've got enough parking lots to go around for decades. There is no reason to tear that building down anytime soon, if ever.

I did notice a new For-Sale sign for the definitely-needs-to-be-torn-down Bail-Bonds shop and lot across the street from the City Hall and Firehouse Square. That needs to be developed into a mid-rise. Then they can tear down Firehouse square and build another one.

[Unionstation13]

^^ I wish someone would restore the strip of lowrises near the city market where another bail-bonds is.

[mobyhead]

They were pumping concrete on the site this morning. That's all I can tell other than the deep whole.

[SpiderMonkey]

They are pouring the pylons for the garage and the garage walls. Not much else. I have a great vantage point as our office sits right across the street. We can look right down into the hole. I'll post an update once I see some more activity going on.

[mobyhead]

They are pouring the pylons for the garage and the garage walls. Not much else. I have a great vantage point as our office sits right across the street. We can look right down into the hole. I'll post an update once I see some more activity going on.

I take it you're in the Marrott? Yes keep us posted. The webcam at 3mass.com doesn't do any justice right now.

[cityfan]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/cwilson758/Indy%20Pics/3massAve1.jpg

Those terraces are gonna be beautiful.

The construction cam view is terrible. They might as well put the camera out by the airport.

[SpiderMonkey]

I take it you're in the Marrott? Yes keep us posted. The webcam at 3mass.com doesn't do any justice right now.

Yeah, I'm in the Marrott. Great views of 3 Mass, cultural trail and the reclad. I find myself just staring out the window everyonce in a while taking it all in.

[SpiderMonkey]

They have began laying the concrete for the garage floor. They also were doing some digging yesterday and it looks like they have hit the water table. There is a nice hole filled with water about 10 feet below the area where they are laying concrete. They are making nice progress though. Once the garage is complete I think they will really start to make progress in the spring.

[IndyYeah]

They have began laying the concrete for the garage floor. They also were doing some digging yesterday and it looks like they have hit the water table. There is a nice hole filled with water about 10 feet below the area where they are laying concrete. They are making nice progress though. Once the garage is complete I think they will really start to make progress in the spring.

I love seeing the steel framework of buildings going up. But that Mass area is such a neat place to walk around. This building will really blend in.:banana:

[IndyIndependent]

Any new PICtures of this and/or One Indiana Square would be GREATLY appreciated! Thank you... :cheers2:

[SpiderMonkey]

They have started to add the second level to the garage along New York. They also started place pvc for drainage I am guessing.

I will bring my camera in tomorrow and try to post some photos of 3 Mass from my office across the street.

[Babbage08]

They have started to add the second level to the garage along New York. They also started place pvc for drainage I am guessing.

I will bring my camera in tomorrow and try to post some photos of 3 Mass from my office across the street.

Please do. I've looked at the webcam on their site a couple times, can't really tell whats going on other than that there's a large hole in the ground.

[SpiderMonkey]

Here are a couple shots from the office. Sorry for the poor quality, I was dealing with the windows and the rain, but it should give everyone at least an idea of where they are to date.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1080008.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1080003.jpg

[CorrND]

Man, great shots. You've really got the angle! I'm sure I speak for everybody when I say we'd love it if you could provide a couple shots like those every once in a while.

[SpiderMonkey]

Not a problem.

[IndyIndependent]

Doesn't that building on the top-left corner of the first pic look like the Shrine building a block or two west of University Mall? They look identical to me! Or am i just crazy? :nuts:

[ablerock]

Doesn't that building on the top-left corner of the first pic look like the Shrine building a block or two west of University Mall? They look identical to me! Or am i just crazy? :nuts:

That's the old Indianapolis City Hall turned Indiana State Museum turned Interim Indianapolis Marion County Public Library. It now sits vacant, waiting for some love.

[SpiderMonkey]

It would be nice to see something midrise infill in those parking lots as well.

[Unionstation13]

The Old city hall is a true gem. The interior is to die for.
I hope its restored to its original glory and the main section with the dome is open to the public.

[IndyIndependent]

Is it me or wouldn't that make a lovely contemporary art gallery/museum?

[Unionstation13]

Is it me or wouldn't that make a lovely contemporary art gallery/museum?

why not use it as a I don't know, city hall?! The city-county building needs space and what better re-use of this structure?

[SpiderMonkey]

They installed the base for the crane this week.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1140016.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1140017.jpg

[cityfan]

Man you really have an incredible perspective.

[Unionstation13]

Interesting. :)

[CorrND]

Again, great shots.

[ablerock]

I love this shot because the building is actually going to go way above the top edge. It's at least twice as tall as the brick flatiron on the right in the photo.


http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1140016.jpg

[Unionstation13]

The area around the old city hall needs to be filled up! A lot of great structures could fill in those lots. I hope the homeless shelter moves as those structures are too gorgeous and are of too much historic value to be homeless shelters!

[SwimINindy]

The area around the old city hall needs to be filled up! A lot of great structures could fill in those lots. I hope the homeless shelter moves as those structures are too gorgeous and are of too much historic value to be homeless shelters!

Perhaps a park could establish itself there, not only as a scenic oasis in the middle of the city, but as a communal gathering point for growing resedential community in the mass ave. area. But then again, another group of mid rises comperable to 3 mass ave would be nice. Imagine looking down from atop the chase tower and seeing and island of green in the middle of the city, whether its on the roof, or on the floor its all good ... or could be good

[Unionstation13]

True, I'd love seeing that happen. I think the lot directly north of the old city hall would make a nice little plaza outdoor cafe area.

[IndyYeah]

True, I'd love seeing that happen. I think the lot directly north of the old city hall would make a nice little plaza outdoor cafe area.

I always have liked outdoor cafes, even restaurants, when they put seating outside, like a couple downtown. This idea, that I am sure will happen somewhere in the area, would be better if at least larger. You know how those cafes on the sidewalk are crowded to the street.

[Unionstation13]

true. Outdoor cafes seem to do very well in Indianapolis(in warmer weather) and I'd love to see more.

[Babbage08]

Can someone update me with what's going on at the site right now? I have tried checking the webcam out but it's so worthless. Thanks.

[SpiderMonkey]

Pouring concrete for the garage. Not much else right now.

[SpiderMonkey]

Is this still scheduled for completion this summer? I thought I remembered reading that this was supposed to be ready for move in during the summer of 2008. I would be amazed if that happens considering where they are right now.

[CorrND]

Good point. The webpage says "Groundbreaking takes place in Spring 2007 with owner occupancy scheduled for Summer 2008." Groundbreaking didn't happen until late summer 2007, so if you just push the owner occupancy by the same amount, that would be late fall. That still seems a bit optimistic, but we'll see.

[SwimINindy]

As i was reading the new issue of indianapolis monthly today, It said 3mass was scheduled for completion and occupancy in spring of 2009 - seems much more realistic

[UrbanIndy]

They've installed a big crane today. I've got a pretty decent view of it but it's not as good as SpiderMonkey's.

[SpiderMonkey]

I was so busy that I didn't realize they were putting it up until about an hour ago. I took a few pics and will post them in a little bit.

[SpiderMonkey]

Here are a couple of quick shots I took a few minutes ago.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280041.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280040.jpg

[SpiderMonkey]

Here a few shots of some of the other projects going on nearby.

Marsh/O'Malia tuckpointing and Cultural Trail
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280047.jpg

707 North
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280046.jpg

The Maxwell (all you can see is the crane)
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280045.jpg

[SpiderMonkey]

I don't know why that first picture is posting that way. I have tried getting it turned but no luck so far.

[SpiderMonkey]

Here are a few of the cab being raised.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280049.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280051.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280056.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280059.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280060.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2280061.jpg

[hoosier]

Kick ass shots SpiderMonkey!:cheers:

It looks like some real progress is being made at the site now. I see foundation and parking garage work underway!

[Unionstation13]

great pics!
Idk why but I love the pic of Marsh and St.Mary's cathedral.

[mobyhead]

All day I wondered what that thing was. Took until this afternoon to realize it was a crane. Bet Todd Mauer was watching out his office window at Indiana Square.

[IndyYeah]

All day I wondered what that thing was. Took until this afternoon to realize it was a crane. Bet Todd Mauer was watching out his office window at Indiana Square.

Todd may have been thinking,"Mmm, should I reface the lower part of this building to match the rest?":no:

[andrewcahn]

You got the best view in the whole venue. How do you get any work done.

[ablerock]

Todd may have been thinking,"Mmm, should I reface the lower part of this building to match the rest?":no:

LOL!

[SpiderMonkey]

They have really been bringing a lot of materials the past 2-3 days. Mass ave. has been littered with trucks unloading steel and many other supplies. They are really picking up the pace. Hopefully they will be above ground soon. I'm impressed with how quickly the pace has changed with the project.

[SpiderMonkey]

Updated photos of the crane construction and the site.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2290001.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2290002.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P2290005.jpg

[SwimINindy]

Hopefully with the weather starting to warm up, construction will start to heat up at the site as well. Its great to see this project take off. I cant wait to drive downtown next time and see the slew of cranes towering over the north east side of th mile by mle square!

[IndyYeah]

Hopefully with the weather starting to warm up, construction will start to heat up at the site as well. Its great to see this project take off. I cant wait to drive downtown next time and see the slew of cranes towering over the north east side of th mile by mle square!

This is a poured concrete building with steel supports?

[SpiderMonkey]

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010007.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010009.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010011.jpg

[ablerock]

I'm so glad this building is going to be a mid-rise. I was driving west across town on New York and noticed it's going to make a significant impact on the cross-town view:

The flat-iron on the corner of Mass/Delaware/New York is three stories high. (It's right under the stoplights and right-turn-only sign below)

3 Mass goes up 6 stories before setting back the next 5 for a total of 11. From the renders I've seen, I'm guessing its highest point will come close to touching the bottom of the 4th stoplight from the right.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t206/ablerock/3massdistance.jpg

[ablerock]

Thanks for the pics, as usual, SpiderMonkey.

[SpiderMonkey]

Pouring concrete for the second floor garage today. They hopefully will be above ground sometime in April.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010005.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010003.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010004.jpg

[arenn]

When is this building scheduled for completion?

[SpiderMonkey]

As i was reading the new issue of indianapolis monthly today, It said 3mass was scheduled for completion and occupancy in spring of 2009 - seems much more realistic


This is last anyone has seen. Original timeline was summer of 2008 and that's impossible. So Spring of 2009 seems like a realistic date in my opinion.

[IndyYeah]

This is last anyone has seen. Original timeline was summer of 2008 and that's impossible. So Spring of 2009 seems like a realistic date in my opinion.

Yeah, that seems correct. They would not have that whole thing up and finished this year. That is a pretty decent building, with the condos, and upper part, with the green roof. This is a nice Mauer building.

[SpiderMonkey]

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010020.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010021.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010022.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010023.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010024.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010025.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010026.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010027.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010028.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010029.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010030.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/New%20Images/P1010031.jpg

[hoosier]

Alright, it's at street level! Solid progress is being made.

[CorrND]

Wow, this project sure is ramping up fast.

[Babbage08]

http://cmsimg.indystar.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=BG&Date=20080409&Category=LOCAL18&ArtNo=804090418&Ref=AR&MaxW=320

IndyStar has an interesting article on tower crane safety, with 3 Mass being mentioned.

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080409/LOCAL18/804090418/1310/ARCHIVE

[CorrND]

Gotta love the Star. Some writer was light on story ideas and looked out the window and saw the 3 Mass crane. That picture was probably taken from the Star's roof.

[speedblue47]

Can I just say that that is an awful perspective of downtown(but thank you for the pic). That site is like two blocks from the Circle and look at what you see, a few five story towers and old suburbia in the background. I hope something happens with the Market Square site soon so that we can start to stretch the skyline a bit. Because that looks more like Muncie than Indy. Is there any word on any other Mass Ave developments more to the North/East?

[ablerock]

Can I just say that that is an awful perspective of downtown(but thank you for the pic). That site is like two blocks from the Circle and look at what you see, a few five story towers and old suburbia in the background.

That picture is the truth, brother.

Sad thing is, any frigging MSA development would fill that gaping hole in nicely. I mean, smack dab in the middle of that picture should be two 20 story towers. (like 3 years ago)

Hopefully one day, a mayor of Indy will announce a development there. In the meantime, 3 Mass will fill in the hole in the photo fairly well.

[speedblue47]

It's sad but true. Hopefully we'll hear something soon on what is going to happen to the MSA site. But 3 Mass looks like it will work out nicely there, even if it's not the pinnacle of achievement architecturally.

[SpiderMonkey]

They poured more concrete for the garage today. You can really start to see the ramp for the garage now.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010001-1.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010003-1.jpg

[SpiderMonkey]

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010004-1.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010002-2.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010005-1.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010003-2.jpg

[ablerock]

Has anyone else noticed the little vehicle drop-off lane they snuck onto the Mass Ave side of the building?

It's totally the wrong location. They should've put it on New York St.

They're losing valuable Mass Ave facing storefront space and the public is losing quite a few parking spaces. It would've made much more sense to put it on New York, which is 3 lanes of one-way traffic, and where pedestrians are less likely to be window shopping. I just don't get it. Mass Ave is tight as is, why add to that with a car drop-off? It's not a hotel. Maybe we'll get lucky and these are just early renderings that have been changed since.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t206/ablerock/3mass2.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t206/ablerock/3mass1.jpg

[IndyYeah]

Got to be a reason. I would write Todd Mauer, if I new he would respond. I am more in thought about that refacing of the tower to the rear, the lower levels not getting done, and clashing with the tower. But I guess the insurance thing that is going on, it is of luck any of the tower will be done.

[SpiderMonkey]

We finally have steel going up.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010004-3.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010006-3.jpg

Here is the last area where they need to pour concrete.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010009-4.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010005-3.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010008-4.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010007-3.jpg

More steel waiting.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010010-3.jpg

[mobyhead]

I saw that from across the street at Indiana Square. I almost needed binoculars to see the crane operator.

[Babbage08]

It almost looks as if those two construction workers are putting the beam in place by themselves.

[IndyYeah]

I love watching buildings go up. What a neat sight!

[SpiderMonkey]

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010022.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010023.jpg


And a couple of The Maxwell
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010024.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010025.jpg

[hoosier]

Alright, 3Mass is above street level. She will be rising quickly now!

[SpiderMonkey]

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010026.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010027.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010030.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010031.jpg

[cwilson758]

This is such an exciting project and one of the best infill projects around! I can't wait to see this rise above the surrounding structures.

[unvrsty07]

SpiderMonkey, any photos you could update us with? It has been about 3 weeks... :)

[CorrND]

These are already a little old, but here are a couple shots I took of 3 Mass during the forum meetup (June 14th?). They're definitely up to the 4th floor already and may even be working on the 5th by now.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3%20Mass/2008-06SkyscraperCityMeetup011.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3%20Mass/2008-06SkyscraperCityMeetup012.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3%20Mass/2008-06SkyscraperCityMeetup013.jpg

[CorrND]

No photos for now, but as of yesterday they're working on the steel structure around the 8th floor. Steel work is fully done through 6 floors (the main facade before it starts to step back) mostly done on the 7th and some of the vertical steel is up for the 8th. This building is going to have quite the presence in that area.

[socrates#1fan]

It may be my inner-nerd but in the last photo the Schmidt associates have the same logo as the triforce from the Zelda games. :)

[ablerock]

It may be my inner-nerd but in the last photo the Schmidt associates has the same logo as the triforce from the Zelda games. :)

LOL!

[arenn]

It's a shame that thanks to the historic district overlay put in place on Mass Ave., we'll never get another building like 3Mass on that street again.

[SwimINindy]

It's a shame that thanks to the historic district overlay put in place on Mass Ave., we'll never get another building like 3Mass on that street again.

I am not going to lie, I am totally ignorant of what a historic district overlay is... and why it prevents future buildings like 3Mass Ave. Could some one fill me in ?

[CorrND]

I am not going to lie, I am totally ignorant of what a historic district overlay is... and why it prevents future buildings like 3Mass Ave. Could some one fill me in ?
It doesn't specifically prohibit buildings as tall as 3Mass, but they're unlikely to allow something that tall again. 3Mass had two things going for it: one, it was approved before the land it sits on was officially incorporated into the historical district and two, it sits at the extreme southern end of Mass Ave, very close to the very tall structures in the CBD (One Indiana Square specifically).

Here's what the historical district plan says in the recommendations for Mass Ave commercial subsection:

Massachusetts Avenue is the primary commercial corridor and represents an urban streetscape that possesses a “big city” feel. The area was designated in 2004 as one of Indianapolis’six cultural districts, due to its concentration of art galleries, performing arts theatres, eclectic shops, and public art. Historic commercial buildings front the corridor and generally range in height from 2-4 stories.

They're likely to push for any new construction to generally be in that 2-4 story range. Somebody might be able to get 5 through, but probably not 6 and certainly not 10 like we're seeing with 3Mass.

[arenn]

The entire core length of Mass Ave is in a historic district. That means that any proposed development needs to go through the IHPC, which is enthalled to neighborhood groups that are largely anti-density. I believe the targeted design standards for the area also specify a maximum building height of 4-5 stories.

[SwimINindy]

All right, Thanks for the info CorrND! Thats slightly unfortunate to hear about those restrictions but perhaps with time, gentrification, and a push from the public, mass ave will have no where to go but a little higher up.

[IndyYeah]

All right, Thanks for the info CorrND! Thats slightly unfortunate to hear about those restrictions but perhaps with time, gentrification, and a push from the public, mass ave will have no where to go but a little higher up.

Mass Av. is not very long if I am not mistaken. I always feel like I am missing an area when I am there. Is there alot of room for many more projects on that road? Larger buildings can be put up in many parts of downtown, so I do not feel that Mass Av. is really missing anything if another 10 story residential building is not put up.

[IndyYeah]

Wikipedia wants the Mass Av. profile updated.

[pig]

Mass Av. is not very long if I am not mistaken. I always feel like I am missing an area when I am there. Is there alot of room for many more projects on that road? Larger buildings can be put up in many parts of downtown, so I do not feel that Mass Av. is really missing anything if another 10 story residential building is not put up.

There are still a half-dozen or so undeveloped lots of decent size on Mass.

[IndyYeah]

There are still a half-dozen or so undeveloped lots of decent size on Mass.

I am glad that Todd Mauer was able to get 3 Mass passed, and now being built. I must say, in Chicago, and recently in Louisville, 10 story or more buildings in high density places with sidewalk traffic seem to grab my attention. The whole scene, but not sure anything over 4 stories will happen again on Mass Av..

[arenn]

There is a ton of vacant land on Mass Ave and the surrounding streets. As I've often noted, to some extend Mass Ave. is like one of those fake western towns on a Hollywood set. Look behind the facade (or the one building fronting Mass Ave) and there is nothing there.

The land prices in the area are astonishing, however. Given the relatively low cost of land-banking, people are holding out for very, very high prices for lots. Combine this with a neighborhood and city that doesn't want you to build much on your very expensive lot, and you send up with what we see: limited development and extremely expensive condos that end up as pieds-à-terre for race car drivers who are only in town one month a year.

[GarfieldPark]

The main area where I hope to see much future development is around the area at the intersection of College and Mass Ave. There are about four or five blocks along College - between North and up to 10th that could be developed with a bunch of 3 - 6 story buildings - maybe higher. That area is a little bit away from Chatham Arch and Lockerbie - and in order to get units with views, a few of them would need to be taller than the Mill #9 and 757 Mass Ave Buildings. With five blocks of 4 - 5 story residences with first floor commercial - you could add 500 - 700 or more hopefully - new residential units.

[cwilson758]

lots of development options on Mass Ave. The intersections have been tragically ignored and IMO, are what needs targeted in the very near future. If we could get some nice flat-iron buildings at all the intersections, or at the very least, good, solid midrises, then the area will be much better.

[mobyhead]

Taken 8/3....

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn148/onemobyhead/3mass.jpg

[socrates#1fan]

It seems a bit out of place.
If I remember correctly the only tall structure in the Mass ave area was some brutalist apartment building near the Murat.
I don't understand everyone and their thrill for skyscrapers. Skyscrapers should ONLY be constructed when needed. The only highrise development I see like this in Mass ave ever again would be purely residential. 3 Mass Ave has some decent architecture. It is done in a smart way. Timeless yet sleek.
My question is, why is there this love for highrises? If there was such a demand for that area why arent they constructing 10-20 highrises on empty lots rather than townhouses and single units?
Building highrises is risky business. It is easy to have a dozen half-filled highrises and to me, that sort of vacancy isn't worth it.

[Babbage08]

Socrates - how exactly did you find this site anyway? Skyscrapercity? I think you'll find a higher proportion of people in favor of skyscrapers around here. Besides, who doesn't like a cool looking skyline that you can see from miles away?

[arenn]

No one advocates skyscrapers on Mass Ave, but 2-4 stories is not reasonable. There is a long history of midrise structures in the area. And 6-10 stories with appropriate step backs would be just fine there.

I agree that east of College out of the historic district is the best place for more infill like 707 E North St. I'd lot to see somebody stick a 10 story tower on the Scholar's Inn parking lot, but I hear the restaurant wants a fortune for it.

[indyfiend]

The main area where I hope to see much future development is around the area at the intersection of College and Mass Ave. There are about four or five blocks along College - between North and up to 10th that could be developed with a bunch of 3 - 6 story buildings - maybe higher. That area is a little bit away from Chatham Arch and Lockerbie - and in order to get units with views, a few of them would need to be taller than the Mill #9 and 757 Mass Ave Buildings. With five blocks of 4 - 5 story residences with first floor commercial - you could add 500 - 700 or more hopefully - new residential units.

Totally agree. New developements at Mass Ave and College, along with the developement of the old Coke plant would really add a whole new dimension.

[CorrND]

If I had my drothers, the area of Mass Ave I'd like to see tackled first is the intersection of Alabama, Mass and Vermont. There's already a pretty good vibe around there. However, if you look at the intersection itself, only 2 of 6 points are developed. Of the 4 undeveloped points, one is a pocket park and the other 3 are well-used parking lots that will probably be tough to acquire without somehow replacing the spaces.

[IndyYeah]

It seems a bit out of place.
If I remember correctly the only tall structure in the Mass ave area was some brutalist apartment building near the Murat.
I don't understand everyone and their thrill for skyscrapers. Skyscrapers should ONLY be constructed when needed. The only highrise development I see like this in Mass ave ever again would be purely residential. 3 Mass Ave has some decent architecture. It is done in a smart way. Timeless yet sleek.
My question is, why is there this love for highrises? If there was such a demand for that area why arent they constructing 10-20 highrises on empty lots rather than townhouses and single units?
Building highrises is risky business. It is easy to have a dozen half-filled highrises and to me, that sort of vacancy isn't worth it.

Indianapolis will have its fill of skyscrapers in the future. Right now we should at least be thanksful that what is going up is going up! 3 Mass, and the JW could easily have be cut shorter a few floors or more each, with terrible architecture. I want to see more skyscrapers, and one day the market will be able to absorb it. Again, What is the JW considered, a highrise, mid, or a skyscraper?

[ak72]

^^
JW is a highrise.

As for skyscrapers in Indy, no skyscrapers are being built or planned right now, and only one one highrise is in the works. I think what will really be beneficial to Indy as a true urban center is filling in all those parking lots with some sort of development, those spots can be put underground or withing the building itself. I think in a few years we will see a lot of projects in Indy. If all of this (707 North, 757 Mass, 3 Mass, Maxwell, Cosmopolitan, Ralston, ect) is a time of economic uncertainty, imagine the development in the next economic boom time.

Getting the super bowl practically pays for the stadium. Mark my words, once it gets a little closer, there will be a lot of development around the luke. Indy is growing, and if gas stays high, some of hose folks from outside the loop will start moving back in. The future for the city of Indy looks bright. Now it is up to our leaders to guide us in the right direction.

[arenn]

You all know my view: skyscraper/high-rise design in Indianapolis has been terrible, and the need for lots of parking leads to most awful designs that are bad for the urban fabric.

I'd much rather see a downtown full of 3Mass and 707 E. North St. than a bunch of high rises like the AUL Tower or the Indiana National Bank building.

[UrbanIndy]

I agree with Arenn on this one. Our mass transit is too poor to handle skyscrapers without too much of a sacrifice for cars. Heck even the mid-rise Ralston Square has over 500 spaces planned.

I'd like to comment to Babbage08 and Socrates#1fan, for the most part I'm not a big fan of skyscrapers, and I realize that's a crazy thing to post on a site called "skyscraper city". My favorite part of NYC is Brooklyn, my favorite parts of Chicago are the surrounding neighborhoods outside the loop, the list goes on. 3 Mass Ave is more in the neighborhood mold than the skyscraper mold, which is why I'm excited about it.

[arenn]

Pic from last week.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3275/2767778333_cb4503a5f9.jpg

[IndyYeah]

Love this! How much higher will they go? Getting close to the top.

[ak72]

That picture shows 8 stories, if you look at the webcam (http://www.3mass.com/webcam) today they have all 10 stories finished in steel. I don't know much of construction but should they start the facade soon?

[runwaydiva]

It's having an impact..

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b177/fashionking615muah/indianapolis817008.jpg

[hoosier]

Wow, I didn't realize that 3 Mass would be visible from I-70/I-65!!

This building will have more of an effect on the skyline than I thought.:banana:

[arenn]

It's also going to be visible from pretty far west along New York St.

[ak72]

The people on top will have some nice views!

[NaptownBoy]

Who's going to be occupying these units? Urban dwellers, wealthy middle managers, or athletes a few days out of the year?

[CorrND]

I noticed the other day that while the building is tiered back from the Hammond Block building and Mass Ave, there's a substantial wall all the way up to the 10th story on the NE edge of the building. It will be a dominant aspect of the view walking SW on Mass Ave., so I hope they considered the design of that space and didn't think of it it as a throw-away, "backside of the building" kind of aesthetic. We haven't seen a rendering of that view. If done well, it could really help with the visual massing building from the end of Mass Ave up to One Indiana Square.

[ak72]

Who's going to be occupying these units? Urban dwellers, wealthy middle managers, or athletes a few days out of the year?

As of now only two of the terrace levels are taken, one on the 7th floor and one on the 8th. As you go up the fewer places are sold. The cheapest place is $299,000. Not ridiculously expensive but still not cheap. Butin answer to your question, right now it looks like everyone there will be living there full-time. Which is a lot better than 757 mass.

Chris: From the floorplans on their website it looks like the back will have windows and small balconies all the way up. So it won't be a blank wall at least.

[arenn]

These are some of the most expensive places in the city. IIRC, some of the units were listed at $2.3 million. I suspect that, like much of the downtown housing that has been built, most of the units will end up as pieds-à-terre.

[speedblue47]

Not everyone who spends money on a condo uses it as a pieds-a-terre. Some people actually spend money on the house they want to live in. Some people want to live near where they work. And sometimes, SOMETIMES, these people are the same people. This kind of project seems to call those people's names. Just a thought...

[SpiderMonkey]

Here a few pics taken from my office of the construction progress. As you can see they have started working on the facade along Mass Ave.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010004-6.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010002-6.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010001-7.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010003-6.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010007-6.jpg

[CorrND]

Nice photos SpiderMonkey. I was just at MacNiven's last night and was thinking that we hadn't gotten a photo update from you in a while!

Interesting to see that it looks like they tried to line up the height of the first three floors pretty closely with the building that houses MacNiven's. It's also funny to see that the three story Hammond Block Building is almost at tall as 5 stories of 3Mass.

[SpiderMonkey]

I've been out of town quite a bit the past month and a half and haven't had a chance to take many pics. The steel structure went up pretty quickly. The facade work that you see in those pictures has been done in the past week. They are really moving along with this project. Wish I could say the same about the Regions building. I'm away for 2 weeks and it looks nearly the same as it did when I left town.

[indyfiend]

Wow! Sure is nice to see that gap filled.

[speedblue47]

Very nice, thanks for the pics.

[arenn]

Anybody looked at the virtual tour on 3Mass.com recently? The very beginning shows a view of the east and south facades. These look to be gigantic towers of EIFS. I'm starting to get very worried about what these will look like. Hope we don't end up with another Villagio on our hands. Ok, it doesn't look that bad since there appear to be significant sized windows and more permeability to the facade. But the east face appears to be mostly a wall with windows.

I'd really love for this building to be a big success, since if it ends up looking bad that's probably another arrow in the quiver of anti-density advocates downtown.

[ablerock]

Anybody looked at the virtual tour on 3Mass.com recently? The very beginning shows a view of the east and south facades. These look to be gigantic towers of EIFS. I'm starting to get very worried about what these will look like. Hope we don't end up with another Villagio on our hands. Ok, it doesn't look that bad since there appear to be significant sized windows and more permeability to the facade. But the east face appears to be mostly a wall with windows.

I'd really love for this building to be a big success, since if it ends up looking bad that's probably another arrow in the quiver of anti-density advocates downtown.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t206/ablerock/eastview.jpg

[hoosier]

Wow, this building is going to have much more of an effect on DT than I previously thought. A great project.:banana:

[cityfan]

Someone that used to work at Bazbeaux Pizza told me the restaurant was planning to move into retail space in 3Mass once it opens. Has anyone else heard something about this?

[ablerock]

Someone that used to work at Bazbeaux Pizza told me the restaurant was planning to move into retail space in 3Mass once it opens. Has anyone else heard something about this?

Nope. That's interesting though.

I'm still wondering if they're planning on putting the drop off lane along Mass Ave. It's a terrible, terrible idea that's getting rid of several public parking spaces and taking up valuable retail space, just so the condo owners can have someone pick them up.

[CorrND]

Someone that used to work at Bazbeaux Pizza told me the restaurant was planning to move into retail space in 3Mass once it opens. Has anyone else heard something about this?
I've heard that the rates for the retail spaces in 3Mass are ridiculous, though a well-established restaurant like Bazbeaux might be more willing and able to take on higher rent for the opportunity to expand into a sexy new space and seat more people.

[pig]

Nope. That's interesting though.

I'm still wondering if they're planning on putting the drop off lane along Mass Ave. It's a terrible, terrible idea that's getting rid of several public parking spaces and taking up valuable retail space, just so the condo owners can have someone pick them up.

It's especially galling on Mass where it doesn't matter much if a traffic lane is blocked for a minute or two.

[cailes]

I was down on the avenue for the fringe festival last night and walking towards downtown, the new building rises above everything, but blends at the same time.

My wife who isnt a big one on tall building development even commented on how good it is going to look. Wish Id had the camera with me

[vitamin R]

It is really making an impact on the skyline, far more than I thought it would. My drive home from work is along I-65 from the south side and it is very noticable from the interstate. Now I'm starting to wonder how Ralston Square will look when it gets underway, its supposed to be about 20 feet taller than Mass. Ave.

[cwilson758]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/cwilson758/Indy%20Pics/3Mass.jpg

[GarfieldPark]

Great picture Cory. Its interesting how the building becomes a pyramid from that angle - although when you're right next to it, it looks pretty straight up. The south side from the view in your picture - with its angled side - is even more of a surprise. The architects - a year ago - talked about how, with the setbacks, the building wouldn't appear as tall as a ten story building - that it would be more like a six story building when you're next to it. I was pretty sceptical of what they were saying then, but ... I've actually been pretty surprised now that its going up that I think they were largely correct. Now, my last concern is to see how the facade looks when they start putting that up. If it surprises me as nicely as the rest of this project, I'll be very happy.

[SpiderMonkey]

Just a brief update. They have installed most of the facade framework for floors 1-6. At the current pace, I would expect the framework to be complete within the next week or 2. Hopefully we will start seeing the facade brick and whatever other materials are going to be used going up in early to mid October.

[SpiderMonkey]

They have started applying sheeting to the lower levels along Mass Ave. and have also been installing cinder block walls on the 7th floor and the roof. I am assuming that the cinder block wall is for the terraces on both levels.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010006-7.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010007-7.jpg



Cinder Block wall on roof
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010005-7.jpg

Cinder Block wall on 7th floor
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010003-7.jpg

[quigley]

http://www.theqstyle.com/net_img/img4.jpg

http://www.theqstyle.com/net_img/img5.jpg

http://www.theqstyle.com/net_img/img6.jpg

http://www.theqstyle.com/net_img/img7.jpg

http://www.theqstyle.com/net_img/img8.jpg

[SwimINindy]

I LOVE THIS BUILDING !!!!!! GReat Pictures ! :banana:

[IndyYeah]

I like the canyon feel-look that the building is giving. That surrounding feel.

[ablerock]

I LOVE THIS BUILDING !!!!!! GReat Pictures ! :banana:

You may sing a different tune when the EIFS starts going up. There's gonna be a ton of beige.

[unvrsty07]

I love this building as well!! I believe this building may just take Mass Ave. to the next level!!! This building is massive btw...

[hoosier]

Wow, it is very imposing. I like it.:banana:

[CorrND]

Urban Indy (http://urbanindy.blogspot.com/2008/10/mass-ave-from-air.html) has a sweet shot from the CCB over on his blog. I hope he doesn't mind me copying it over here!

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3%20Mass/3Mass.jpg

[cailes]

Wow. Thats impressive! Will be neat to see from the air when its all done with th rooftop plans

[araman0]

Very nice. The first floor retail will be an excellent addition to the area. From some of the pictures it looks like there is already decent ground retail in the area.

This is a big win for Indy.

[UrbanIndy]

That's cool Corr, I was gonna post it here eventually. Thanks.

[IndyYeah]

Looks taller than 140'. Still such a nice tower. Hope the outer materials, color are nice.

[ablerock]

Looks taller than 140'. Still such a nice tower. Hope the outer materials, color are nice.

There's gonna be some brick, some glass, and a whole lotta beige EIFS. I'm starting to dread the days that they intall the EIFS.

Just check the beginning of the virtual tour on the website: http://3mass.com/

It's gonna be BEIGE and most likely ugly. Hope not.

Just around the corner, to the right in this picture, are two facades with ZERO brick made entirely of EIFS (and glass).

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/corrnd/3mass_new_york.jpg

The view from Mass Ave. will be decent, but the view from the Cultural Trail, O'Malias, basically anywhere "behind" the building, is going to look like doo-doo. It's going to be a huge beige wall, much like the infamous Villagio on Virginia Ave.

[IndyYeah]

The curve parts of the upper floors,the steel points,and is not a complete curve. You see it in the video also. Is this supposed to be this way, covered by the outer wall which is a curve?

[ablerock]

The curve parts of the upper floors,the steel points,and is not a complete curve. You see it in the video also. Is this supposed to be this way, covered by the outer wall which is a curve?

Just to clarify, are you asking if the finished curve of the top floors will differ from the present shape of the steel frame?

[IndyYeah]

Just to clarify, are you asking if the finished curve of the top floors will differ from the present shape of the steel frame?

Well the outer looks to be a curve, the inner steel has points. I was not sure if that is correct. The patio areas would not be an exact curve, unless they get finished like the outside. So-yes.

[SpiderMonkey]

Picture from my parking space of 3 Mass from Friday.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg148/Spidermonkey317/P1010001-10.jpg

[mobyhead]

I can watch the progress from my new perch on the 12th floor of Indiana Square. How in the heck do they take that crane apart when they are done with it?

[cailes]

If I remember correctly, most of it will be re-used for the main elevator shaft.

How they get the craine itself down, who knows.

[SpiderMonkey]

They have started laying brick on the Massachusetts Ave. side of the building.

[indyfiend]

The condos on the upper 4 floors are going to be amazing. If only I could win the lottery before it's finished:)

[arenn]

The condos on the upper 4 floors are going to be amazing. If only I could win the lottery before it's finished:)

Would you pay $2.3 million for a condo clad in EIFS?

[SpiderMonkey]

I wouldn't pay $2.3 million for a condo unless it was on the beach somewhere. But I don't have $2.3 million so I guess it doesn't really matter. :)

The have been installing windows the past few days and are working their way up the second floor with the brick.

[indyfiend]

Would you pay $2.3 million for a condo clad in EIFS?

Depends on how much lottery money I won:) This brings up an interesting question. If money was no object, where in Indianapolis would all of you like to call home? I'm not quite sure which I would choose, but I would definitely look strongly at the Monument Mall area and Mass Ave. Possibly 429 N. Penn, Athletic Club, 757 and 3 Mass Ave. Unfortunately, money is always an object:)

[unvrsty07]

If I had the money to spend I would definitely be at 3 mass! That in fact is my dream goal is to buy one of those penthouses. Think about the view!!! right in your backyard off your balcony is the new reclad of Indiana Square... Then you throw in the location of being right on mass ave, and only a block away from CBD... in my mind, it is the perfect location in Indianapolis.

[pig]

3 Mass' location is pretty hard to beat. If I was in the market and had deep enough pockets the Mall area would most likely be my first choice.

[SpiderMonkey]

Yeah, I think 3 Mass would be pretty hard to top. Across the street from the Cultural Trail and the only grocery store in dowtown, the city market is a couple blocks south, dozens of great restaurants, dozens of galleries and boutique shops and it is right across the street from office. Perfect.

[IndyYeah]

3 Mass, no question about it. The classy women are around that area as well. Top floor or 9th would be fine.

[mobyhead]

I'm curious how they will remove the crane from the middle of the structure. Perhaps I should inquire in a construction forum?

[mobyhead]

Depends on how much lottery money I won:) This brings up an interesting question. If money was no object, where in Indianapolis would all of you like to call home? I'm not quite sure which I would choose, but I would definitely look strongly at the Monument Mall area and Mass Ave. Possibly 429 N. Penn, Athletic Club, 757 and 3 Mass Ave. Unfortunately, money is always an object:)

I would like the whole penthouse at Riley Tower #1

[IndyYeah]

I would like the whole penthouse at Riley Tower #1

Those Riley Towers, What are they like? Kept up over the years? It seems odd that the downtown area apts. stayed within these towers for so many years. It is like the 1 mile area stayed dead for such a long time. I do like the slightly diferent design added to these towers a few years ago. You know would be nice to see some more apartments downtown in a few years.

[GarfieldPark]

I lived in Riley Towers back in the late 80's. They were built in the early 60's and have good, sturdy construction. They're comfortable and pretty nice. I was never in one of the penthouses. Overall, a pretty good location. Indy yeah: As far as more apartments downtown - there will be 218 more when Cosmopolitan opens in a year or so ... And another 300 or so when the Parliament opens a block east of the Cosmopolitan in a couple of years (hopefully).

[GarfieldPark]

As far as a great Condo to buy (if I had $3 million) - one that hasn't been mentioned by anyone else so far - is the 707 North College building. I was in it once - before they put its construction on hold - and the views from the penthouse are fantastic. Being about a mile from the Circle, the view is really expansive toward downtown. You can see everything - from the Lilly campus and Lucas Oil Stadium - to the heart of downtown and north past the library, west to IUPUI and the Med Center and up to Midtown. Its cool looking out toward downtown over the Lockerbie neighborhood below - and looking down on the old church steeple next door.

[mmheidelberger]

Would you pay $2.3 million for a condo clad in EIFS?

If I were to put down that much money on a condo, I would rather it be completely cladded in brick, or mixed with stone. But like most of the people here, I can only dream of making that decision.:)

[mobyhead]

I went by on Saturday. New York Street was closed. There was a huge crane taking down the main crane used for construction. So I guess my question from an earlier post has been answered.

[mobyhead]

I lived in Riley Towers back in the late 80's. They were built in the early 60's and have good, sturdy construction. They're comfortable and pretty nice. I was never in one of the penthouses. Overall, a pretty good location. Indy yeah: As far as more apartments downtown - there will be 218 more when Cosmopolitan opens in a year or so ... And another 300 or so when the Parliament opens a block east of the Cosmopolitan in a couple of years (hopefully).

I lived in tower one for 4 years in the mid-90's. I loved it there. Just got too expensive.

[IndyYeah]

The Riley Towers look great from the south side on I-70 just before the exit going to The Luke. That extra few feet rail at the top helps the height. The gap from the main downtown to the Riley Towers would be nice to see something. Maybe that would be Market? Eh. bad point now I guess.

[unvrsty07]

Anyone have some recent photos of 3 mass?? Im in oklahoma city for 2 weeks, and have been in Houston for 2 weeks!! Need some photos... Please!! Thanks...

[arenn]

Here are some pics I took in late October.

http://naptownobserver.blogspot.com/2008/11/under-construction-3mass.html

[IndyYeah]

Anyone have some recent photos of 3 mass?? Im in oklahoma city for 2 weeks, and have been in Houston for 2 weeks!! Need some photos... Please!! Thanks...

Hey how is that new stadium for the basketball team? The ex Sonics? The past renders looked nice.

[unvrsty07]

Its pretty cool looking of what I have seen, bricktown is pretty cool, its a mix of the canal district and the wholesale district, which has its benefits and its costs, but overall it is a nice urban stadium...

[hoosier]

Its pretty cool looking of what I have seen, bricktown is pretty cool, its a mix of the canal district and the wholesale district, which has its benefits and its costs, but overall it is a nice urban stadium...

Any similarities between DT Indy and OKC? Both have a DT canal with new development and new sports stadiums, etc.

[unvrsty07]

Um, in a word, NO... lol DT Indy for lack of a better term "kicks its ass."

I just want to share some stuff with you Indy folks... If anyone dares to make a statement such as suburban, un-walkable, rust-belt, boring, or un-creative to describe Indianapolis, then I would shrug it off and ignore them, cause they do not have a damn clue what they are talking about!! I have been all over this country for the last two months and I have to say, Indianapolis has its act together!!

Oh by the way, to call indiana or indianapolis conservative is a joke!! After some of the places I have been too. It is amazing how after traveling around you begin to get a sense of place and character. By far the coolest city I have been to has been St. Louis which was a happy and very welcomed surprise, But DT Indianapolis is seriously cracking the top ten in American DT cities (and I will defend that statement too)!! The sun belt is so much bull shit!! It is a fake and does not even feel like real cities, and besides the warm weather, it was 66 today :) I can not wait to get the heck out of here... (I apologize in advance, I know I am going to hear it from some one)

[IndyYeah]

Um, in a word, NO... lol DT Indy for lack of a better term "kicks its ass."

I just want to share some stuff with you Indy folks... If anyone dares to make a statement such as suburban, un-walkable, rust-belt, boring, or un-creative to describe Indianapolis, then I would shrug it off and ignore them, cause they do not have a damn clue what they are talking about!! I have been all over this country for the last two months and I have to say, Indianapolis has its act together!!

Oh by the way, to call indiana or indianapolis conservative is a joke!! After some of the places I have been too. It is amazing how after traveling around you begin to get a sense of place and character. By far the coolest city I have been to has been St. Louis which was a happy and very welcomed surprise, But DT Indianapolis is seriously cracking the top ten in American DT cities (and I will defend that statement too)!! The sun belt is so much bull shit!! It is a fake and does not even feel like real cities, and besides the warm weather, it was 66 today :) I can not wait to get the heck out of here... (I apologize in advance, I know I am going to hear it from some one)

I defend that whole letter to us. I get down about architecture, however I will say downtown Indy and the city really has alot going on. I really feel in 10 years we will really have a major downtown happening,neighborhoods and all. There is a reason that I said Indy is my favorite city. Not that everything is there now like I would like to see, but the potential, that goes with it that I like, even though I am a sucker for Mass Av...Thanks!

[GarfieldPark]

I know I've read about the concerns of various people that the entire east side of 3 Mass Avenue will be styro-board or whatever (myself included). But - looking at it recently, the entire east side is basically covered with large windows. Much, much better than what I was expecting. I was afraid it was going to be another tan, completely ugly, gigantic wall - but I think with all the windows, it shouldn't look too bad. (I mean it definitely isn't going to look like the south side of the Benouly (or whatever that big square building is down at the intersection of South Street, East Street and Virginia Avenue.)) I think it is going to be very urban looking as you view that side of the building, showing a view of much urban, residential life downtown - which should look real good.

[GarfieldPark]

Maybe I spoke too quickly. The eastern side of the building bends, with three different sections of the wall facing basically in an easterly direction. The two sides of the wall that face east and southeast look ok (with many windows). The section of wall that faces northeast doesn't have as many windows - and likely will have more of the tan and ugly "styro-board" (my made-up term) visible. That is the view that you see as you are looking toward the Southwest down Mass. Ave. That's too bad. Oh well - at least the other two parts of the eastern side of that building shouldn't look too bad.

[socrates#1fan]

Um, in a word, NO... lol DT Indy for lack of a better term "kicks its ass."

I just want to share some stuff with you Indy folks... If anyone dares to make a statement such as suburban, un-walkable, rust-belt, boring, or un-creative to describe Indianapolis, then I would shrug it off and ignore them, cause they do not have a damn clue what they are talking about!! I have been all over this country for the last two months and I have to say, Indianapolis has its act together!!

Oh by the way, to call indiana or indianapolis conservative is a joke!! After some of the places I have been too. It is amazing how after traveling around you begin to get a sense of place and character. By far the coolest city I have been to has been St. Louis which was a happy and very welcomed surprise, But DT Indianapolis is seriously cracking the top ten in American DT cities (and I will defend that statement too)!! The sun belt is so much bull shit!! It is a fake and does not even feel like real cities, and besides the warm weather, it was 66 today :) I can not wait to get the heck out of here... (I apologize in advance, I know I am going to hear it from some one)

Indiana is a center state with perhaps a slight lean center right with center left large towns and left cities(like Indianapolis and Bloomington.).
OKC is also about half of Indy's age. In the 19th and early 20th century Indianapolis was on a totally different level. By the time OKC was being established Indianapolis was already turning into a major city. We were building palace hotels when they were building shacks!
Politically the power of Indiana's minorities and left have been flexed. The GOP has sort of taken Indiana for granted like the democratic party does Illinois. Now it is a battle ground state with demographic change in the direction of the left as well as economic scars that are pushing many right center hoosiers to the center and center left. Hoosiers are very center. They elected a republican governor(who is a center sort of governor.) and senate, while keeping a sort of check democratic house so everyone is balanced out.
Not to mention the large number of young hoosiers that are now registered does not favor conservatives(which is not mean the GOP.) or the Indiana of yesterday. The CURRENT GOP will have to fight if it wants to keep Indiana.
Yay we are a battleground state boys and girls!

[ak72]

Any recent pictures of 3 Mass? I haven't seen any in a while.

[SpiderMonkey]

The brick work appears to be complete on the Mass Ave. side of the building.