Phase 1

The 17th Street Community Corridor – Phase 1 is a transformative affordable housing development led by Pathways to Housing PA through its development affiliate, Pathways Housing Wellness Corporation (PHWC). Located in the Sharswood neighborhood of Lower North Philadelphia near Temple University, the project will redevelop 12 long-vacant lots into two new three-story residential buildings and a shared parking area. Phase 1 will deliver 40 newly constructed affordable rental homes designed to serve low-income individuals and families in a community that has experienced significant disinvestment and increasing displacement pressures driven by rapid neighborhood change and gentrification.

All 40 units will be affordable to households earning at or below 50% of the Area Median Income, with rents capped at no more than 30% of household income—even for households with no income. At least 30% of the units will be reserved for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness, many of whom may have additional supportive needs such as behavioral health challenges, disabilities, or recovery from substance use. The development is intentionally designed using a Housing First approach, ensuring that residents are provided stable housing immediately, paired with access to voluntary, high-quality supportive services focused on long-term health, stability, and independence.

The project includes thoughtfully designed residential buildings featuring one- and two-bedroom apartments, along with shared community amenities such as a community room with kitchen, on-site management offices, and resident support spaces. The buildings will incorporate energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials and are planned to meet high-performance green building standards, including DOE Zero Energy Ready Homes (ZERH) certification and the National Green Building Standard – Silver level. Located within close proximity to public transit, grocery stores, healthcare, parks, and neighborhood services, the site provides residents with strong access to essential resources and employment opportunities while reinforcing long-term neighborhood stability.

Stone Sherick’s Role

Stone Sherick Consulting Group served as the project development consulting partner for Phase 1, providing critical support throughout the planning, financing, and execution process. Their work included coordinating and structuring public financing strategies, assisting with the preparation and submission of Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and other funding applications, and supporting overall development positioning to ensure competitiveness for public resources. In addition, Stone Sherick worked closely with PHWC and project stakeholders to help align financing, development strategy, and project readiness, contributing to the successful advancement of the 17th Street Community Corridor – Phase 1 from concept to funded development.