If you get off the harrowing 23rd Street exit from 676, you’ll whiz past a property at the corner of 23rd & Summer, and until quite recently, you probably wouldn’t have given it much thought. A surface parking lot until just recently, plans have long been in place for a residential tower to rise as a second phase to the Edgewater apartments, which were completed back in 2003. However, in January of this year, we reported on a shift in plans from the original 20 stories down to the 7-story tower which is now getting closer to completion. Before we get to the current progress and some updated renderings (everyone in unison: oooohh!), let’s fly over the area and check out the past plan to remind ourselves just how close this parcel is to the off-ramp at this difficult-to-reach corner.

After our trip in January showed things still below ground, our recent visit showed things nearly topped off. All seven floors are now up on this modular construction project designed by JKRP Architects. The facade treatment has yet to be added, but you can get a good feel for the massing of the project. And just for fun, we even have an aerial shot of the construction, thanks to a recent submission to the Sign Committee of the Art Commission. Shall we check out the current progress?

While things have been framed out, those finishing touches are lacking at this stage in the game. But thankfully, we have some new renderings from JKRP that gives a much better idea of what’s to come. In addition to 180 units, there will be lounge, gym, and pool space provided to the residents, along with the prerequisite co-working and rooftop spaces, as well. The design looks quite nice, as we’d imagine it would in such a prime location close to the river and Center City. The red brick is quite a contrast to the lighter tones of the original Edgewater, not that we’re complaining. This should form a pleasant (if not groundbreaking) welcome to everyone walking by on foot or white-knuckling their way off the Schuylkill Expressway.

While we wish there were still another dozen or so stories to go on this project, we are still pleased with the final design and finishes. This forms the northern point for a line of development along 23rd Street, which we’ve touched upon once or twice over the last several weeks. Logan Square has a reputation as a little sleepy at times, but nearly 600 units will be added just across the three projects in process, not to mention the hundreds of other recent and future residents that will be joining the mix. Better get in line at Trader Joe’s now, before it’s too late.