Highland Hall is such a significant building that it has its own zoning district in Hollidaysburg, Pa.
Built around 1867, the prominent structure served as a girls’ school, a seminary, a World War II army radio school, and county office space. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the stone building is also unique because its limestone was quarried right on the site.
After being abandoned and falling into disrepair for the last 15 years, the property has recently re-opened as Highland Hall Senior Housing, with 53 affordable apartments for residents 62 and older. Units are set aside for residents earning no more than 20%, 50%, and 60% of the area median income.
“There’s a lot of allegiance to small towns in Pennsylvania,” says Andy Haines, executive vice president at S&A Homes. “People grew up here, moved away, and, when they retire, they like to come back.”
The adaptive-reuse of the property involved a major rehabilitation, including installing a new roof, restoring portions of the building that couldn’t be saved, and recreating the original façade. The building exterior reflects the history of the site while the interior has been adapted into modern apartments, including several that are fully accessible.
The Energy Star-certified building places residents within walking distances to transportation, stores, and other amenities. The property is fully leased.
Highland Hall Senior Residence is also important to the larger community, revitalizing a blighted building and restoring vibrancy to the town’s historic district.
Financing for the $10.2 million property included federal low-income housing tax credits, a low-interest loan, and a grant.
