A couple of weeks ago, a developer went before the ZBA with plans for three new construction homes at 1417-21 Fitzwater St., in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood. After an initial proposal to SOSNA to have the homes set back from the street to accomodate two parking spaces, the revised plan called for three story homes with garages and roof decks. While near neighbors seemed underwhelmed by the proposal at the SOSNA meetings, the project is great news for a block that could use a little more shine.

Current parking lot, future homes

A few homes on this block have been redone in the past year or so, but a few others are in poor condition.

A couple of new facades, and one currently under construction

The other prominent features of the block leave a lot to be desired, with a funeral home, an auto garage, and surface parking lots.

Funeral Home with dilapidated building next door

Parking lots on the south side of the street

Auto shop, pretty much next door, and the Clef Club fronting Broad St.

On the other hand, the proximity to South Broad is a huge plus for these homes. With 777 South Broad visible from the front door, Casa Verde coming a couple of blocks to the north, and a possible mega-project on the way a few blocks to the south at Broad & Washington, the potential upside for this block is pretty high.

And after all, who wouldn’t want a front seat for the Carl Dranoff show?