What’s under construction at First and Hillside?

Now that dirt work is underway at First and Hillside, some people are wondering what’s going on there.

It’s the second phase of Uptown Landing.

It was only a couple of months into the pandemic in 2020 when Have You Heard? first reported that land had been cleared for the second phase of development, but then nothing happened. The pandemic was to blame.

Now, managing partner Mike Brand said he’s starting with a parking garage, part of which will be underground, and then building three stories of apartments above that.

“We’re so short on parking space, we’re going to build our own parking garage for our residents who live there,” Brand said.

There will be about 130 units with one, two and three bedrooms.

The exterior of the building will be similar to the 51-unit existing apartment complex.

“We’re 100% leased,” said Brand, who is somewhat surprised by that.

“You know, it’s a mystery,” he said of how he did it. “I can’t tell you. I wish I knew myself.”

The old Parkstone brownstones, now called Uptown Quarters, also are 100% leased.

Brand said he’d prefer not to discuss how much the new apartments will cost until they’re built.

“We’re going to be on the higher-end side without a doubt.”

However, Brand said the apartments will be so nice and with such great amenities — such as a pool, clubhouse and pickleball courts — he knows people will be interested.

“Once they come and look at the place, (they’ll) sign up immediately,” he said. “We’re going to have a great courtyard.”

Brand said he’s struggled more to lease the retail spaces below the first phase of apartments, but he said, “Once they get in, they’re all doing quite well.”

The new building will be ready by this time next year. Brand said he hopes to open in September if possible.