The Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Catholic Health Care Services announced it started construction of its newest facility, St. John Neumann Place, in South Philadelphia (2600 Moore Street). Property demolition began December 2006, with anticipated completion by early 2008. A limited partnership between Catholic Health Care Services, Beneficial Savings Bank and PNC Bank is funding the project.

This development marks the first time the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has utilized Section 42 tax credits from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency for the adaptable reuse of vacant church property. In addition to the tax credit award of $12 million, funding is provided by the Redevelopment Authority of Philadelphia, the Housing Trust Fund administered by the city, and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

St. John Neumann Place will provide safe and affordable housing for seniors 62 and older. This initiative has been a collaborative effort between Catholic Health Care Services and the Archdiocesan Office for Community Development.

The renovations at the site of the former St. John Neumann High School include the demolition of the school gym, auditorium and priory. The remaining classroom area will be converted into the senior residence with 75 one-bedroom apartments. The building will be completed with community rooms, off-street parking and green space. The adjacent McNichol Field will remain as playing and practice fields for Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti High School teams. The General Contractor is Domus, Inc.

Once construction nears completion, there will be a public announcement and seniors will have an opportunity to submit lease applications. Criteria to live at St. John Neumann Place include age, income and the ability to live independently.

The creation of St. John Neumann Place will benefit the larger community, offering an affordable housing option to seniors in an area where real estate values are rising. Operations will not be subsidized, but rather will be funded by the rental income. This development will ensure that affordable, quality housing remains part of a larger, mixed-housing strategy for many years to come. Local residents have expressed great support for the development and appreciation that the church continues to be a presence in their neighborhood.

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Contact
Matthew Gambino
Associate Director
215-587-3747