Pickleball with Wine Garden Coming to Conshohocken: On August 19th, Conshohocken’s zoning hearing board delivered a pivotal decision, granting Cooper Winery zoning relief to establish a wine garden at 127 East Elm Street. The approval includes conditions for integrating two pickleball courts and a bocce court into the design. The development will feature a raised building with a bar, dining area, and bathrooms, alongside outdoor amenities such as a food truck space, seating with fire pits, and a selection of Pennsylvania wines, beers, and potentially local canned spirits.
Ownership and Development
Cooper Winery, under the ownership of Christina Pieri, is located at Pieri Farm & Vineyard in Bucks County. Christina’s husband, Brian Pieri, a prominent local figure, owns the East Elm property purchased from Ray Weinmann’s estate.
Ray Weinmann was a significant early developer of Conshohocken, passing away in 2021. Brian Pieri’s hospitality ventures include The StoneRose, Bar Lucca, and Bar Sera in Conshohocken.
Addressing Concerns
The zoning relief sought to address issues related to setbacks, construction within the flood plain, and parking. Christina Pieri, alongside traffic and hydrologic engineers, testified on these aspects.
To mitigate parking concerns, Pieri has arranged a lease with a neighboring office building for additional parking. The traffic engineer confirmed the plan’s minimal impact on sightlines, while the hydrologic engineer assured that the building’s location on the highest part of the property would minimize flood impact.
Board’s Conditions and Community Support
The zoning board imposed conditions requiring the parking agreement to be submitted to the borough, the use of newer technology paddles to reduce noise, and the securing of loose items during off-hours. No public opposition was voiced; rather, support came from figures like Mark Weinmann, executor of Ray Weinmann’s estate.
Mark emphasized that the wine garden aligns with his father’s vision for the property, contrasting with potential alternative uses like office buildings.
News in Brief: Pickleball with Wine Garden Coming to Conshohocken
On August 19th, Conshohocken’s zoning board approved Cooper Winery’s plan for a wine garden at 127 East Elm Street, featuring two pickleball courts and a bocce court. The decision, granted with conditions, allows for a raised building with bar and dining facilities, along with outdoor amenities including a food truck space and fire pits.
Christina Pieri, owner of Cooper Winery, addressed concerns about parking and flood impact. The board’s conditions include securing a parking agreement and using noise-reducing equipment. The plan received public support, including from Mark Weinmann, who highlighted alignment with his father’s vision.
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