Habitat for Humanity to build affordable housing on part of former hospital site

A phase of HDC MidAtlantic’s redevelopment of the former UPMC/St. Joseph’s hospital site in Lancaster will be developed by Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity. 

HDC said it is working with Habitat for Humanity to build affordable housing on the site at 913 Wheatland Ave.  

The site was initially planned for rental and homeownership options, HDC said. 

Through a conversation with the community, HDC understood the need for homeownership opportunities in this area of the city and began exploring ways to make it possible. 

“We believe in collaborating with community partners to bring additional value to Lancaster,” said Dana Hanchin, president & CEO of HDC. “Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity is an expert in homeownership. As a fellow nonprofit who shares HDC’s vision of a world where a safe, affordable place to call home is available to everyone, we are excited about Habitat for Humanity’s potential development on this site, and we look forward to seeing their progress.” 

As the current developer with control of the site at Wheatland Avenue from UPMC, HDC will begin the process of transferring that control to Habitat for Humanity, HDC said. 

“Habitat is committed to preserving old homes and building new ones, as we have for over 30 years in the City of Lancaster,” said Andrew Szalay, president & CEO of Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity. “We will look to the neighbors, the city, and our many construction volunteers and experts to build homes that suit the West End neighborhood and the future needs of the city’s homeowners.” 

HDC is continuing to partner with Baltimore-based firm, Washington Place Equities (WPE), for the larger redevelopment of the former UPMC/St. Joseph’s hospital site. Total combined investment is expected to be $90 million for all phases.