Every now and then, we find ourselves on a block for the first time. And that’s what happened today after we got a tip about some ongoing demolition on the 2500 block of Alter Street. This block is accessed from 26th Street but dead ends before it gets to 25th Street, blocked by the train ramp to the 25th Street viaduct. Until recently, there were half a dozen homes on this block. With the demolition that’s now approaching completion, it’s down to five homes.

Developers purchased 2532-38 Alter St. last year, and have consolidated the six parcels into four lots. Once they’re done tearing down the one building that was on their property, they’ll commence construction on a quartet of duplexes. This will probably be the first new construction on this block in a hundred years.

We’ve seen several projects come down the pike in Grays Ferry in the last few years, so this one comes as no surprise. We’ve seen other projects on both sides of the viaduct and wondered whether proximity to the tracks might be a detriment, but at least this project will have a buffer. Oh, and it has a nicely tended community garden across the street as well.

Not to mention, this block is oh so close to the Graduate Hospital neighborhood, and just a block away from the large project coming soon at 25th & Washington. Though this project is happening on a bit of an obscure block, it might prove more successful than you’d expect at first glance. And perhaps it will inspire some additional construction nearby, to boot.