23rd and Union
[ Photo: Dan Bertolet ]
This is the front door of Philadelphia Cheese Steak at 23rd and Union, in 2003. The sign on the door says “Closed for Troy’s funeral,” referring to the owner who was shot dead in his car a few blocks away.
Today the subsequent owner was shot and killed, and a second man critically wounded.
Coincidental, random acts of violence, perhaps. But one thing for sure is that 23rd and Union is one of the most miserable intersections in the City.
Given all the vacant lots and big empty parking lots, along with relatively few viable businesses with street presence, it’s not too surprising that street crime flourishes. I find it remarkable how underutilized this intersection is, especially considering how close it is to downtown, Capitol Hill and Madrona.
The vacant lot on the SW corner has had a chain link fence around it for seven years. A six-story mixed-use building with apartments is being planned for this site (more on this to come in another post). I’m optimistic that this will be the beginning of a new life for 23rd and Union.