HOUSING

Queen Lane Redevelopment

PHA's proposed layout of the Queen Lane redevelopment.

Overview

PHA demolished the Queen Lane high-rise at 301 W. Queen Lane in Germantown and plans to construct 55 new, affordable rental units for individuals and families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is PHA not building homeownership units at the new Queen Lane?: There is a critical need for affordable rental housing in the City and in the Germantown neighborhood.

PHA has built homeownership units at some of its new, mixed income developments in the recent past. Unfortunately, the HOPE VI funding used to build these rental and homeownership developments is no longer available. In addition, it's very important to note that the current housing market is discouraging for new home sales.

Please be advised that PHA's Homeownership Department does offer opportunities through its homeownership counseling program; its Housing Choice Voucher (HCV - formerly Section 8) Homeownership Program, and its 5H Homeownership Program for scattered sites residents wanting to buy the house they currently occupy. You can learn more about PHA's Homeownership Programs here.
What will happen to Kelly Playground?: Housing will be built along the periphery of the site, including a portion of what is now the playground. PHA is working with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on the Section 106 historical preservation process. Learn more about the 106 process at HUD's website.
Will construction disturb the burial grounds?: PHA's intent is to avoid disturbing the potter's field. The Queen Lane high rise was constructed on a portion of the potter's field which was "a burial place for all Strangers, Negroes and Mulattos as Die in any part of Germantown, forever." The field dates back to 1755 and PHA is sensitive to the historic nature of the sites. PHA staff is working with experts to address any issues.
How will the community benefit?: PHA's redevelopment efforts positively impact the communities we serve. Crime rates have dropped dramatically while property values have risen in neighborhoods where PHA demolished high-rises and rebuilt modern developments. PHA's construction efforts are also an economic engine that creates jobs for the community. Between October 2009 and October 2010, there were 2,055 new hires for PHA construction projects. Almost 30% of the new hires were public housing residents or low-income residents of the metropolitan area. In addition, the demolition of the high-rise, the development of 55 new units and treatment of the potter's field will improve the aesthetics of the neighborhood. Community members will also have access to the new community space at Queen Lane.
What services does PHA offer to residents?: PHA offers a wide variety of services to residents including education, job skills training, job placement, healthy lifestyle, nutrition, recreation and independent living programs for youth, adults and elderly residents. A service coordinator will be available on site part-time at the new Queen Lane development as well.

Documents

Section 3 Compliance Program PowerPoint (from the 2/9/12 Community Meeting)
Queen Lane Programmatic Agreement

Phase I Archaeological Survey

Maps and Renderings

Implosion Documents

The implosion was held on Saturday, September 13, 2014 at 7:15 a.m. PHA outreach workers conducted surveys and provided the following information about the implosion.

Community Meeting Minutes

Contact Us

If you have additional questions about the Queen Lane redevelopment, please email us at queenlane@pha.phila.gov .