JR and Erika Russell plan to transform the College Avenue building into a steakhouse, banquet facility, bridal business, children's boutique and consignment shop for high-end furniture, clothing, jewelry and other items.
Work crews on Wednesday began demolishing the former John Martin's Manor on College Avenue to make way for housing that will feature townhouse-style apartments.
The development proposed by Arcon Realty, which would require the removal of the building that for many years housed the John Martin's Manor restaurant, is seen as a step toward addressing the city's housing crunch.