Desiring a return visit to Pizza Dads, we trekked to Brewerytown with a purpose this past weekend. After destroying a slice, we figured it would be responsible to try to walk off some of the calories and decided to check in on some development projects in the neighborhood. We were impressed when we got to the 1200 block of N. 27th Street, noting the significant progress since our last visit in October. This block is anchored by North Abbey at the corner of 27th & Girard, an attractive former church that was converted into apartments a couple years ago. Soon after, the same developers built a duplex next door, which was a sign of things to come.

Staying on the west side of the block, we complained three years ago about a row of blighted and vacant homes here, noting with frustration the possibility that they could remain in that state because they were owned by PHA. A year and a half ago, nothing had changed. At some point in the last few months though, a few of those homes did indeed get demolished, leaving a large vacant lot on the western side of the block, through which you can see ongoing construction on Etting Street. As we told you before, a developer owns 1220 N. 27th St., and we now see that they’re looking to build what we expect will be another duplex on this property. In addition, at 1214 N. 27th St., a different developer is definitely looking to build a couple units. Makes sense to us.

Turning our attention to the western side of the block, we told you back in October that Argo Property Group was going to build four new buildings on previously vacant lots, with plans calling for a duplex, a triplex, and a pair of six-unit buildings. If you visit this block today, you’ll see that all four of the buildings have progressed nicely, with the smaller buildings to the south looking like they’re a little further along. A reminder, the units in the duplex, at 1211 N. 27th St., will be sold as condos. The other 15 units will be rentals.

Finally, we have a non-update next door to this project. About half a year ago, we told you that developers had purchased the large parcel at 1229-47 N. 27th St. and were planning a by-right project with a mix of duplexes, triplexes and quadplexes that would total 63 new units. We’re pretty sure that this project will still move forward, but from what we’re seeing nothing has started moving in terms of construction.

Yeah, it’s a bummer nothing has happened here just yet. But given the forward momentum on this block, we imagine we’ll have some good news regarding this property in the very near future.