Doggie 'Groom Room' Proposed on Grape Street

With general consent from a neighborhood group, one Manayunk property owner nears approval to open a dog grooming business at Grape and Cresson Streets.

The Groom Room, the proposed dog salon at 4338 Cresson (or 111 Grape) Sts. received approval in principle from the Manayunk Neighborhood Council and awaits a zoning date before anything official can transpire.

Rupert Ralph owns the corner building next to the Grape Room. Tenants seek a new first-floor business in the former Manayunk Development Corporation office.

"Apparently, Manayunk is becoming a dog area, with the dog park in Pretzel Park and the young people," Ralph said.

The business will occupy the first floor and doesn't intend on keep pets for long. Ralph said it's about a 1-hour process. The store won't hold pets all day or overnight.

He needs zoning relief to sell retail items, like pet supplies, in addition to the dog grooming, in what is zoned as a single-family home.

Additionally, he applied for an 18-by-20-inch sign that will not illuminate. 

Jane Lipton, executive director for the Manayunk Development Corporation, said the move will change the tax assessment on the property, as it will now have to pay into the Manayunk Special Services District.

The neighborhood group generally approved the plan and awaits an official zoning date. The original hearing on Oct. 31 was continued, but has not yet been rescheduled, according to the zoning calendar.