In January of 2024, the long-vacant Germantown YWCA was the subject of yet another failed development effort by out-of-town investor KBK Enterprises. This time around, the firm applied for Low Income Housing Tax Credits from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA). That application, which proposed 51 apartments for seniors age 62 or older, was rejected  for the following reason: “In accordance with [PHFA’s] published 2024 Qualified Allocation Plan, [such] development must receive AT LEAST 120 points to even be considered for a potential reservation of Low Income Housing Tax Credits.” The application scored a mere 87 points. Yet it is this very same firm that the District Councilwoman [Cindy Bass] says deserves another chance — one more in a long line of chances she has shepherded.

The PHFA application included a question about the impact on the community if the project were not financed. KBK’s president and CEO answered that “Given the historical significance of the Germantown YWCA and its inclusion in key revitalization projects, the building’s continued neglect would be a significant concern for the community. This notable structure’s disuse runs counter to the community’s vision for renewal.”  Indeed!

The building is located near the intersection of Germantown and Chelten avenues, adjacent to a busy senior center, with ample public transit options and a public library within easy reach. The District Councilwoman said, “I’ve heard the calls from residents who want to see senior affordable housing at the historic YWCA site,” but hearing and then acting in her constituents’ best interest has yet to happen — not in almost 10 years.

Mayor Parker should make the former Germantown YWCA her number one development priority. She should exercise mayoral prerogative, insist that the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority (the owner) issue a request for proposals, require a robust response timeline, and an equally robust occupancy date.

Sydelle Zove

Miquon