Back in the summer of 2011, when we first told you about plans for a new mixed-use building on the long-vacant northwest corner of 17th & South, we never would have imagined that construction would have only gotten started at the tail end of 2013. But here we are folks, almost two whole months into the new year, and this project is only one-story tall and slowly growing taller.

Current view

The project went through several iterations before it was finally approved by the ZBA in May of 2012. Unfortunately, after it was approved, near neighbors on Rodman Street appealed the decision to the Court of Common Pleas. The appeal was struck down about a year ago, but we believe that some legal cloud still hangs over the project. Despite this, construction is taking place. When it's finished, the four-story building will have nine residential units and a large commercial space on the first floor. 7-11 has a lease on the space, which is slated to be completed over the summer. If you're interested in being the franchisee, you can click here to learn more.

While we'd be lying if we told you we were super excited about the commercial use coming soon to this location, we're still beyond tickled that this building is finally going up. This large South Street West lot has sat vacant for far too long, leaving a gap in this revitalized corridor. With all the redevelopment that's taken place on this strip, the vacancies are increasingly becoming an endangered species. And that's certainly good news for neighbors and other businesses alike.