Philadelphia Housing Authority Wins Award of Excellence for Project Design
(Washington D.C.-Nov. 17, 2020)- The Philadelphia Housing Authority modernized and rehabbed its Sharswood Tower making it a 2020 recipient of the Award of Excellence for Project Design by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO).
“This year’s award-winning agencies have given us innovative local solutions for increasing affordable housing stock and improving the lives of their residents,” NAHRO President Sunny Shaw said. “I am excited to honor them for their excellence.”
PHA’s Sharswood Tower is a mid-century low-income senior apartment high-rise that after years of use and poor planning was left dilapidated, inefficiently laid out, and did not meet current safety and accessibility requirements. The Sharswood Tower is one part of the housing authority’s plan to demolish and reconstruct a superblock in North Philadelphia bound by 22nd and 24th streets, and Oxford and Jefferson streets. The intent is to provide upgrades to modernize and create a safer living environment for residents. Through careful selective demolition and insertion of all new electrical, mechanical and sprinkler systems, insulation, and windows, the building now complies with to-date safety and energy codes. The units were reorganized with new kitchens and bathrooms and given a sleek, fresh look. The community room, leasing and tenant offices, laundry rooms and outdoor patio were all upgraded, and a walkable park was also added.
“NAHRO members have always been in the business of providing homes and improving lives – these awards commemorate shining examples of the vital work they do nationwide,” NAHRO CEO Adrianne Todman said. “My sincere congratulations to this year’s winners.”
About Awards of Excellence
Nominated from among the Award of Merit winners each year, these Awards are chosen by national juries and presented at the annual National Conference and Exhibition. They represent the very best in innovative programs in assisted housing and community development.
About NAHRO
NAHRO, established in 1933, is a membership organization of nearly 20,000 housing and community development agencies and professionals throughout the United States whose mission is to create affordable housing and safe, viable communities that enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those of low- and moderate-income. NAHRO’s membership administers more than 3 million housing units for 7.6 million people.