As we reported last week, developer Bart Blatstein is buying the huge lot on the northeast corner of Broad and Washington, which has been subject to countless rumors and failed projects in the 20-plus years its been vacant.

We couldn’t get a word on what the plans were, but the Daily News did, and they found out that Blatstein plans to build what he called a “retail hub” there.

Says the paper:

Blatstein declined to elaborate on his plans for the site, which in recent years hosted occasional performances by Cirque du Soleil. “It’s a great location that warrants good use,” said Tim Hitchens, of the Hawthorne Empowerment Coalition, a nearby neighborhood group. “The surrounding neighborhoods have been growing, and the space is easily accessible by foot, bike, car and public transportation,” he said. “At this point, we really don’t know what Mr. Blatstein is planning, but we’re hopeful.”

We are, too, Tim. We are too.

To the supporters of the Philadelphia Arts Market that is proposed for that lot, don’t worry. Elisabeth Garson, who is spearheading that effort, told us that she always knew that location would be temporary. Since Blatstein’s project is in such an early stage, the market could still operate there for a year. We’ll see.