I think I distinctly remember someone from the city saying that sometimes these "break ground" things are, initially, symbolic and real work can be months, if not a year or more away. So, if there are no other permits, I think this is largely symbolic, atm.
That was the parking lot. Other than ripping up the pavement, they have not done much else. The building in the back in the former Beer Store. Other than being boarded up, nothing has happened with it (teardown, etc)