Park Towne Place Apartment Homes, built in 1959 in Center City Philadelphia, faced the challenge of preserving its historic charm and competitive edge. To ensure the property’s longevity, Leadership initiated Phase I, involving the replacement of aged building systems, space enhancements, and updates. This comprehensive project, included addressing major capital requirements, infrastructural improvements, and the replacement of residential HVAC systems. However, the complex nature of the work required all 1,439 residents to temporarily relocate to a local hotel for approximately two weeks, presenting a significant logistical challenge.
To overcome this hurdle, the Sherra Kolade and the Project Team, comprised of the Operations/Leasing, Construction Services, and Relocation Team, played a crucial role. Clear expectations and responsibilities were established through a project charter, and the Relocation team lead by Sherra Kolade took the lead in communicating with residents, planning and executing moves based on the construction schedule, and monitoring each resident’s transition. The meticulous planning included a vendor selection process for accommodating all residents, involving a hotel analysis based on unit availability, rates, amenities, and customer satisfaction.
Ms. Kolade was responsible for overseeing the entire relocation process. She successfully, executed the relocation plan, managed vendors, formed communication strategies, and collaborated with Redevelopment and Construction Services. The result was a seamless relocation for all residents, with no holdouts, preventing costly construction delays and ensuring the success of Phase I followed by Phase III and Phase IV.