Dunlap Apartments

Dunlap Apartments is a preservation and energy-efficiency rehabilitation project undertaken by NewCourtland Elder Services to improve an existing affordable senior housing community in Philadelphia. Originally constructed in 1910 and converted to housing in the early 1990s, the four-story, 32,670-square-foot masonry building provides housing for low- to moderate-income elderly residents. After acquiring the property in 2009, NewCourtland identified critical system upgrades needed to extend the building’s useful life while minimizing disruption to residents and maintaining long-term affordability.

The project focuses on the replacement of outdated HVAC systems that have exceeded their useful life with modern hybrid systems that optimize between heat pump and gas furnace operation. These improvements are expected to reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling by approximately 31.5%, including significant reductions in both electricity and natural gas usage. In addition to lowering operating costs, the upgrades will substantially improve environmental performance by reducing emissions of nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and carbon dioxide, contributing to improved air quality and sustainability outcomes.

Beyond energy efficiency, the rehabilitation supports the long-term viability of the property and enhances quality of life for residents. The project generates operational savings that can be redirected toward resident services and programming, while also preserving critical affordable housing for seniors in the community. By addressing capital needs outside of a full tax credit resyndication, NewCourtland is able to complete improvements more quickly and cost-effectively, ensuring continued housing stability for elderly residents while advancing broader goals of sustainability, economic efficiency, and community health.

Stone Sherick Consulting Group – Role

Stone Sherick Consulting Group provided owner’s representative and development consulting services for the Dunlap Apartments rehabilitation. The firm led the coordination and submission of financing applications, including energy efficiency and public funding sources, and guided the project through approvals and financial closing. Stone Sherick managed predevelopment activities, including oversight of the project engineer and design team, review of construction documents, and coordination of permitting and regulatory requirements.

During procurement and construction, Stone Sherick directed the bidding process, evaluated contractor proposals, and provided recommendations to the owner. The firm monitored construction progress through regular site visits and meetings, managed payment applications and change orders, and ensured compliance with project schedules and funding requirements. Stone Sherick also facilitated value engineering and maintained oversight of cost controls, with a focus on delivering the project efficiently while meeting energy performance and quality objectives.