Area was on the list of original sites in 2000

Apple is in negotiations to open a new store in Berkeley, across the bay from the existing three San Francisco Apple Stores, ifoAppleStore reports. The space, a former furniture store at 1823 Fourth Street in the college town, is in an area that was on Apple's original list in 2000 of sites for the first set of Apple retail stores.

The storefront features 5,250 square feet of space, but would require some extensive remodeling to accommodate the current standard of Apple store design. Because the area was hit hard by the economic downturn of recent years, the space has been largely vacant since mid-2009, and any modifications Apple might want to do would likely meet with little resistance from the zoning board. Apple's presence would likely help revitalize the area, which features several abandoned stores but also hosts some successful businesses as well, including two popular restaurants and a coffee shop.

The building in question features a 54-front storefront set back about 20 feet from the sidewalk, creating a small plaza area. Apple has neither confirmed nor denied that they are in discussions with city officials about the building. [via ifoAppleStore]

by MacNN Staff