As we mentioned a few months ago, the 10 new houses are being constructed on the site of the old Varick AME church at 19th and Catharine Sts.

Image from ruins.wordpress.com

Unfortunately, since the church’s (extremely careful) demolition about three years ago, the site has sat empty and overgrown as the economy tanked and the original developer lost the land. Neighbors have been staring at this eyesore, waiting for signs of progress.

 

You need a machete to cut through these weeds!

 

Good news, folks! Construction is officially underway. Take a look at these photos from the past week and feel your heart filling with hope for the future. Or at least filling with blood, as it does all day every day. If not, please consult a physician right away.

 

Last week. Pile of dirt. View from 19th St.

 

Also from last week. You can see the beginnings of the foundations for the houses fronting Dorrance St.

This weekend. View from Catharine St. Looks like they might be pouring foundations at some point this week.

Also from this weekend. Again a view from 19th St. Pile of dirt still going strong.

We should have some renderings to pass along this week. At this rate, construction could almost be wrapping up by then.