Liberty52: Stephen F. Gold Community Residences

Liberty52: Stephen F. Gold Community Residences was a 24-unit new construction development in West Philadelphia that created permanent supportive housing for low-income individuals with physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and older adults age 55 and above. The project was conceived to address the severe shortage of accessible and affordable housing for people living in nursing homes solely due to a lack of community-based options. Completed in 2020, Liberty52 includes fully visitable one-bedroom units, six fully wheelchair-accessible units, and six units designed for residents with hearing or visual impairments. The development offers a community room, lounge, on-site management offices, supportive service space, a resident computer room, and a landscaped rear patio. The project received the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s 2018 Innovation in Design Award for its mission-driven approach and high-quality accessibility features.

The building was designed to meet Passive House Institute standards, making it one of Philadelphia’s most energy-efficient affordable housing projects. Its sustainability measures included triple-pane windows, heat-recovery ventilation, high-performance insulation, energy-efficient appliances, low-VOC finishes, and water-conserving fixtures. Located along the 52nd Street commercial corridor, Liberty52 gave residents exceptional access to transit, employment centers, medical facilities, parks, and neighborhood amenities. The site benefited from multiple transportation options—including the Route 52 bus and Route 15 and 10 trolleys—providing direct access to destinations throughout University City and Center City. With the growing demand for accessible and autism-friendly housing far outpacing supply, the project helped address a critical community need while contributing to the ongoing revitalization of the surrounding neighborhood.

On-site supportive services are provided by Liberty Resources, Inc., Philadelphia’s Center for Independent Living. Residents receive individualized support, including employment training, financial literacy, nutrition counseling, independent living skills training, peer support groups, benefits assistance, case management, and access to durable medical equipment through affiliated organizations. Services are structured to promote independence, community integration, and long-term housing stability. The project drew on the strength of Liberty Resources’ decades-long experience assisting people with disabilities in transitioning from institutional care to independent community living.

Stone Sherick’s Role

Stone Sherick Consulting Group supported Liberty Housing Development Corp. throughout the full predevelopment and construction process for Liberty52. SSCG secured multiple competitive funding sources—including 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits, Housing Trust Funds from the City of Philadelphia, an AHP grant, and philanthropic support—and assisted with site acquisition from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority. The firm coordinated zoning approvals, managed all third-party consultants, oversaw contractor and architect engagement, directed due diligence and financial closings, and facilitated LIHTC investor selection. SSCG also served as the owner’s representative during construction, ensuring that the project advanced according to schedule, budget, and program requirements.