Image courtesy of Peter Quinn Architecture

A Cambridge developer is testing the Porter Square area as a new growth node for life science development with a proposal for a 42,000-square-foot lab project.

SGL Development proposes the 4-story structure across from the Porter Square Shopping Center, replacing three buildings on White Street on the Cambridge-Somerville line.

The firm, led by Principal Adam Siegel, has developed $50 million in Cambridge developments in the past five years, primarily multifamily construction.

SGL is seeking a special permit and site plan for approval of the project, located in Somerville’s Mid-Rise 4 zoning district.

The project would not contain on-site vehicle parking, and would rely on the computer rail and Red Line access at the MBTA’s Porter Square station located about 500 feet from the site.

Designed by Peter Quinn Architecture of Somerville, the project would feature a facade including brick and concrete facade and a glazed corner, which was endorsed by the Somerville Urban Design Commission.

The existing buildings on the three separately-owned parcels at 32, 40 and 44 White St. would be demolished, according to applications materials, having been determined not to be architecturally significant or subject to the city’s demolition review ordinance.