It's not just a single "happening" actually, though it does probably relate back to the '60s. Those who came of age in that unusual decade are rapidly aging, and one of the few signs of their acceptance of that fact is the increased activity along Ward Parkway on the Plaza.

The Plaza can be considered an ideal location for many. Boomers are beginning to weary of yards and upkeep. Their older siblings may already have. For those among them who want up-scale clothing, furnishings and accoutrements along with good dining, art, parks, and well-dressed (well, relatively) tourists, the Plaza is the place to be. At least three developments on the improved Parkway illustrate this fact.

One is a six-home gated community for the definitely non-hoi polloi at 501 Ward Parkway. Only two of the homes are not yet spoken for, and the lots alone cost between $700,000 and $925,000. The homes are individually designed and will range in size from 2,600 to 4,200 square feet.

Located a bit more to the east on 229 Ward Parkway, the Hemingway is being converted once again to condos. This old landmark, constructed in 1929, is a first- tier Plaza property-a hop across the walking bridge and a resident is on the Plaza. With an estimated 70-75 condos, at an average size of 1,850 square feet, and prices ranging from $250,000 to a million, this gracious building is expected to be completed by 2003. It will include a roof-top deck once again. About 35% of the 10 story building has quickly been sold to the end user, and developer Kim Weinberger says she and her partner at KB Properties are extremely enthused about its potential. She points out that these condos are being bought not only by empty-nesters, but also by young couples who just don't want a suburban lifestyle.

John Williams, developer of The Sulgrave at 121 W. 48th Street, just off Ward Parkway and behind the Hemingway, concurs. "The interest has just been phenomenal. Our own residents have first priority, but already we're fielding dozens of calls." The condo will not be on the market to the public until August, and he's expecting up to 50% of the units to go to existing residents.

The Sulgrave is one of the largest residences on the Plaza, and Williams and his partners expect to have 130 to 140 units by the time the conversion to condominiums is completed. This size provides the building a unique advantage, as the extensive list of amenities -including large balconies, extensively landscaped deck and putting green, fitness center, swimming pool, mini-theatre, game room, and underground parking can all be provided to residents at reasonable cost. These condos will range from studios at 900 square feet to the largest units at 3,300 square feet. The units have large balconies, and more than $10 million is being invested to improve and
enhance the building. Preliminary pricing for the homes ranges from $175,000 to $900,000.

Williams is so excited about the property that he's already left his Kansas home and moved in. His four equity partners in Sulgrave Development, L.L.C., also plan to join him somewhere in the building. His life has already improved, he says. "I jog in Loose Park or around the Stowers Institute or the Nelson. I have no homeowner hassles. This place is superbly soundproofed, and we will continue to insure that comfort. I have more time. Life is very, very good." The Plaza lifestyle on and around Ward Parkway is happening indeed!