With the recent destruction of Arby’s on High Street and Lane Avenue, the fire that left the Pita Pit out of service, and the rumors of Skyline Chili and Insomnia being torn down, Ohio State students seem to be running out of places to eat and hang out.
The building, located on the corner of High Street and 13th Avenue, which contains Skyline Chili and Insomnia, has recently become a part of Campus Partners’ plan to remodel the off-campus area.
The owner of the building is working closely with his lawyer, Brent Rosenthal, on plans for the new building which is planned to cover most of the area between High Street and Pearl Alley with a three-story, multi-purpose building.
The first floor will be used for businesses, while the third floor is being reserved for apartments. The building’s pedestrian-friendly design doesn’t allow for parking, but Rosenthal says the building is geared more towards the campus community.
Although neither Skyline Chili nor Insomnia have heard any recent news about their fate, feelings are still strong.
“I just don’t know where I’ll hang out between classes anymore,” said Anna Kiss, a sophomore in art history and employee of Insomnia. According to Kiss, despite offers to re-open the coffee shop in the new building, Insomnia has yet to make a decision.
The spaces being offered are much larger than what Insomnia employees feel they need. Rosenthal says he is being mindful of the businesses and has been working with his real estate agent to find new spots for the businesses who are not re-opening in the new building.
Other students have different opinions about the scheduled renovations.
Ryan Hoersten, a senior in consumer affairs management, said he is excited for the renovation because it will help clean up the image of that area.
“I like that campus is getting cleaned up, but I don’t like places like Arby’s getting torn down,” Hoersten said.
Amy Bhungalia, a junior communications major, said that tearing down these buildings is taking away from the character of the university.
“People still come back to this school and see that it has the same personality as it did when they went here. Now everything is going to be completely different,” Bhungalia said.
Frank Petruziello, vice president of Skilken Properties says the Arby’s lot will be replaced with a new CVS Pharmacy. Campus Partners are not participating in this renovation, but the new pharmacy will follow new city zoning guidelines and will blend well with other buildings in the area.
