Philadelphia announces a historic $50 million investment in the building trades to create 336 affordable senior homes and 545 union jobs in Wynnefield Heights. The Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council supplies a $50 million loan from its pension fund to the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA). The city guarantees this loan, repaid over 15 years at 4.5% interest. City funds add $8 million more, making this Philadelphia’s largest union-backed affordable housing project.
Project Location and Scope
Brith Sholom Apartments stand at 3939 Conshohocken Avenue in Wynnefield Heights. PHA took ownership in September 2024 after the site fell into disrepair under private management, facing plumbing breakdowns and pest problems. Renovation delivers 336 updated units for seniors with fixed or low incomes, down from the original 360.
Union Jobs and Economic Impact
The project creates 545 union jobs via the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council, which covers area union workers. It stresses family-supporting wages, top safety measures, and prevailing wage standards.
Key Leaders’ Statements
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker labels it a key win for her affordable senior housing and jobs toolbox. Ryan Boyer, Trades Council business manager, sees it as a starter investment in Philadelphia’s future. PHA CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah points to the site’s poor condition and credits the team for securing long-term senior housing.
Ties to H.O.M.E. Initiative
This project advances Mayor Parker’s $2 billion H.O.M.E. Plan to build, rehab, or save 30,000 units across the city. It sets a model mixing public housing know-how with private funds for more deals ahead.
