Women’s Community Revitalization Project to build apartments on public land in Kensington under new leadership.

The Women’s Community Revitalization Project (WCRP) is set to develop a 34-unit apartment complex, which will be complemented by two additional triplexes. This venture is taking place on city-owned land located at the intersection of Cumberland and Reese streets in Kensington. The initiative is particularly significant as all residential units will be reserved for individuals and families earning less than 60% of the area median income, making them accessible to those with an annual income of nearly ,000 for a family of four.

The design of the apartment complex uniquely angles across the property, optimizing the city-owned land. WCRP Executive Director Lorissa Luciani emphasizes the project’s contextual approach, stating that a solid building across from existing rowhouses would not align with the character of the neighborhood. To maintain the area’s aesthetic, height limitations have resulted in a design that adheres to the surrounding environment.

Funding for this million development will be sourced through federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), which the organization successfully acquired in 2025. The land for the development will be acquired at a nominal cost from the city, enhancing the project’s feasibility.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of WCRP’s approach. Since 2024, the organization has actively collaborated with local groups such as Xiente, APM, and the 19th Ward Registered Community Organization (RCO), all of whom have expressed support for the development. Recent actions taken by the Philadelphia Land Bank’s board also reflect community backing, as they voted to approve the sale of the property to WCRP. This plan has garnered the endorsement of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, whose legislative action is crucial for transferring the property out of the Land Bank, highlighting the project’s viability.

If the necessary legislation is approved, the final legislative passage could occur within the month. The anticipated timeline for the project includes a groundbreaking planned for the fall, marking a significant milestone for Luciani, who took on the executive director role after the retirement of WCRP’s founder, Nora Lichtash, in 2025.

Founded in 1986, WCRP has historically focused on communities in Fishtown, Kensington, and adjoining neighborhoods in North Philadelphia. The organization has expanded its reach over the years, executing development projects across various parts of the city, including Germantown and Point Breeze. Luciani, who brings a wealth of experience from local and state government roles in New Jersey, aims to cultivate strong community relationships to continue the impactful work that has characterized WCRP’s mission for decades.