Building on the momentum of Phase I, Phase II shifts into high gear
VanTrust Real Estate, a national developer with a regional office in Columbus, is pleased to announce two new tenants to the Phase I of the Pointe at Polaris project. Cathcart Rail, a privately-owned freight rail services and transportation company, signed a long-term lease for 8,264 square feet of space, and is expected to move into its new offices in the coming weeks. In addition, technology consulting firm Fusion Alliance, specializing in digital, mobile, and data-driven solutions, leased 8,214 square feet, and is expected to take occupancy in January 2021.
“In these uncertain times, positive business news is especially welcomed,” said Andy Weeks, executive vice president of VanTrust’s Columbus office. “We are gratified that tenants looking for office space see the Pointe at Polaris as an ideal location, and are pleased to welcome Cathcart Rail and Fusion Alliance to the Pointe. Cathcart Rail has enjoyed a strong presence in Ohio since 2015, with its corporate headquarters in nearby Bucyrus, seven railcar repair locations, a railcar part company, and a shortline railroad. Fusion Alliance has been a staple in the Columbus-area business community for more than 25 years, partnering with Fortune 500 and mid-market companies to help them transform their businesses. We know both companies will see the benefits of choosing Polaris as they continue to expand.”
Cathcart Rail and Fusion Alliance join an impressive roster of companies that include Anthem Blue Cross Insurance, and retail tenants Kitchen Social, Condados Tacos, Atlas Tavern and Sweetwater Coffee. In addition to these newest additions, two spaces have also been leased. Atone Chiropractic opened in November 2019, while Club Pilates opened in January. With only two 3,000 square feet retail suites remaining available for lease, Phase I is nearing full occupancy.
According to Casey Cathcart, president of Cathcart Rail, “We are very excited to join the VanTrust real estate family and are looking forward to a long and beneficial relationship with them and the local community. Our services have never been more critical as our work can impact important delivery lines.”
Rick Mariotti, Fusion Alliance President, agrees. “The Pointe at Polaris, with its central location and access to all of Columbus’ major business and residential districts, is an ideal location to expand our offices,” he said. “We recognize the stellar reputation of VanTrust, and are pleased to be associated with a company that provides a positive community impact and offers its tenants the highest quality professional service. We look forward to becoming a part of the Pointe at Polaris family.”
Phase I of the Pointe at Polaris includes 216 apartment units, 30,000 square feet of retail, and 70,000 square feet of office space. Building on the success of Phase I, VanTrust broke ground July 2019 for the second phase of the project, which is nearing completion. It calls for a 145,000-square-foot office building with 260 apartment units. Bank of America signed a long-term lease for 60,000 square feet and will be the anchor tenant.
As with Phase I, Phase II is a joint venture with NP Ltd. Elford Construction and M + A Architects worked with VanTrust on the first phase and continues as the team for the second phase. For more information on leasing opportunities, contact Colliers broker Brett Cisler at 614-437-4498 (brett.cisler@colliers.com). Derek Lichtfuss with Newmark Knight Frank represented Cathcart Rail, while Brandan Ellis of CBRE (brandon.ellis@cbre.com, 614-402-4712) was the broker for Fusion Alliance.
The Pointe at Polaris has quickly become a desirable location for both commercial and residential tenants, and road infrastructure improvements planned for the Polaris area in 2020 will further benefit those located in the area. These include:
- I-71/Gemini ramp access modification that will open the I-71 barrier wall to allow Gemini southbound on-ramp traffic to immediately enter I-71 without funneling down to the Polaris Parkway southbound ramp.
- Widening of 270 west ramp to two lanes at I-71 and 270. This will relieve evening traffic from the Gemini on-ramp and will greatly improve the commute on 270 west.
- Extension of Lyra Drive to Powel Road from Cabela’s northbound, creating a new north-south connector between Polaris Parkway and Lewis Center.
Other road improvement projects include widening Polaris Parkway and Orion, as well as the recently completed widening of South Old State Street.
