Alter Ego Brewing Co. hopes to call this Midtown Harrisburg building its home.
If all goes right, a new brewery will debut in the heart of Midtown Harrisburg in September or October.
Alter Ego Brewing Co. hopes to open a brewhouse in long-vacant space at the corner of Susquehanna and Boyd streets, at the rear of Midtown Cinema. The 3,500-square-foot brick building would house a beer-making operation, in addition to a tasting room with a limited menu featuring small plates, paninis and finger foods, said Brandalynn Armstrong, who operates Alter Ego with her husband, Theo.
While hopeful, the Armstrongs know they have numerous steps to take before they can open, including securing a liquor license and probable land use approvals. The building also requires a complete renovation, which is expected to begin in late spring, assuming all approvals are granted in a timely manner.
As a first step, the couple has scheduled a community meeting on Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. at Midtown Cinema. Brandalynn Armstrong said that they want to introduce themselves, answer any questions and seek community support for their business. They consider it vital that the community feel comfortable with their proposal before they proceed.
“We want to be a good neighbor and an active member of the community,” she said. “We think it’s a good fit for Harrisburg and that Harrisburg is a good fit for us.”
In addition to offering Alter Ego beers and a limited menu, the Armstrongs will feature local Pennsylvania wines and art gallery space. No liquor will be served.
The building is owned by Lift Development LLC, which includes two partners of GreenWorks Development. A couple of years ago, the county tried to relocate the former Midtown magisterial district justice’s office and courtroom to the building, but an agreement could not be reached.
The community meeting to discuss Alter Ego’s proposed brewery and brewhouse will take place at 7 p.m. on Jan. 28 at Midtown Cinema, 250 Reily St., Harrisburg.
To learn more, please read our August 2013 feature about the Armstrongs and Alter Ego Brewing or visit their website.
This story has been updated to include the latest estimate of the project’s timing.
