Development Watch: Grand Plans on Grand Avenue

Despite the economic downturn and news of stalled or abandoned projects, there’s still tons of residential construction happening all over Brooklyn. Assuming people actually move into all these new apartments (unlike dozens of other cities filled with near-vacant or unfinished projects), within a few years new residential enclaves will sprout up in places where people used to only work. For example, on one industrial block of Grand Avenue, snuggled between the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway and Myrtle Avenue, we counted five new projects totaling 119 apartments. On one side, two Scarano projects would add 8 units each; a conversion called The Retro Loft is almost done with 28 units; and a 35-unit project is planned, although only a fence stands at the site. On the other side is 74 Grand Avenue, which is 40 units. Despite its proximity to the much-maligned expressway, the block is actually quite pleasant, with the steady hum of industry to one direction (some find that sound soothing) and the residential neighborhood at the other end. All the basic food groups are conveniently within walking distance—Pizza, Thai, Indian, Mexican, Sushi, Mediterranean, Diner and Bodega—but the only nearby train is the… G. Fortunately the expressway is close! How do you think this block will fare?
Development Watch: 74 Grand Avenue [Brownstoner]