Parkside Neighborhood Preservation

The preservation of the Parkside neighborhood included rehabilitating 82 affordable housing units within 16 historic buildings on scattered sites. Most of the structures were constructed in 1895, across the street from Memorial Hall in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park, and were converted in the 1940’s to the current unit mix.

Significant historic fabric remained in the properties that were sensitively restored or encapsulated, including stairs, inlaid hardwood floors, doors, windows, and brick facades.  Several buildings had long term structural deficiencies, most likely exacerbated by renovations in the 1940s. Posts and beams were designed and woven into the building, avoiding gas, water, and electric lines attached to or penetrating through the joists requiring reinforcement.

All of the barrier-free units were located in four buildings on one site. The second-floor units were only accessible via a non-operable exterior platform lift. An enclosed hydraulic elevator was designed and located such that the rear yard could be programmed for other uses in the future.

Water using appliances, light fixtures, kitchens, and HVAC systems were replaced with modern energy efficient fixtures and equipment. Building security was enhanced by additional security cameras, 24/7 life safety monitoring systems, and entry call boxes. Funding sources for the project included 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Historic Tax Credits, and Philadelphia DHCD funds.