Renovating a 20-story occupied residential tower requires careful planning, sequencing, and coordination — especially when asbestos abatement is part of the work. Southway delivered a phased renovation of J. Van Story Branch, a 350-unit affordable senior housing community in Baltimore preserved through HUD’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program.

The work required temporary relocation of residents within the building to accommodate asbestos abatement and unit renovations. Southway carefully coordinated each phase, moving residents as work progressed and returning them to completed units while maintaining continuous operations throughout the tower. The project also included the installation of a new elevator shaft, reducing the unit count from 357 to 350.

Through careful phasing and coordination, Southway modernized the high-rise while preserving its role as an important source of affordable senior housing in Baltimore.

Awards:
ABC Baltimore Award of Excellence (2021)
Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development Award of Excellence (2021)