In recent weeks, we’ve given a lot of coverage to the 5000 block of Baltimore Avenue. We told you about plans for a jazz cafe juice bar and coffee shop on the western end of the block. We gave you the lowdown on Babylon Bistro, a new restaurant coming next year to the middle of the block, and also mentioned the taco truck that will live next door. Additionally, we shared some preliminary info on the possibility of a garden center coming to a currently vacant lot on the southeastern corner of 51st & Baltimore.

5100 block of Baltimore

Earlier this month, we suggested that the new momentum on this block should naturally influence development to the north and south, using a rehab at 51st & Catharine as an example of this phenomenon. Today, we have an example that’s located a half a block south, at 51st & Hadfield. This building was most recently home to the drinking establishment Hide-Away Inn. Permits were filed last year at this location for a restaurant on the first-floor with an apartment above. According to public record, the building was sold about a year ago for $100K. We’re guessing the liquor license wasn’t included in the sale. 

In the past

A couple of weeks ago

Along Malcolm and Hadfield Streets, and the nearby Willows Avenue, some homes have been renovated, it looks like in recent years, reflecting the overall change in Cedar Park. Others are worn and beaten. This matches a pattern we’ve observed on Baltimore Avenue itself, where some buildings are getting new life while others continue to languish as blighted tributes to the recent past. Hopefully, all of those buildings will soon come back into active use as Baltimore Avenue continues on its current path.

With the progress taking place on Baltimore Avenue, we wonder if it’s time to look again at the Apple Lofts, the now dead proposal to transform an old industrial building south of 52nd & Baltimore. Or is too early for that? One thing at a time.

–Lou Mancinelli