Mary Harvin Center Senior Apartments
Baltimore, MD
staying strong in the face of adversity
If a company’s true character is revealed in the hardest of times, then look no further than the Mary Harvin Center project. This was the senior housing facility that was set on fire mid-construction and broadcast around the world during the Freddie Gray riots. The 61-unit complex was 45% complete before the arson, and its destruction deeply affected everyone associated with the project. As our executives watched everything unravel on live TV, they immediately started formulating the Harkins Response Plan. A highly proactive approach, it put Harkins on the front lines of resolving insurance and engineering issues, cleaning and clearing the site for a rebuild, and reimagining the schedule.
After restarting construction, the Mary Harvin Center was completed 69 days ahead of the scheduled completion date— only six weeks later than the original completion date. Today, it is considered the catalyst for development in the Baltimore East neighborhood. In addition to the residences, it features a community center for job training and a social services space in partnership with local sponsored programs.
How Harkins Made A Difference:
- The morning after the fire, we provided complete and immediate access to all project documentation through Procore to our insurance agent and builders risk carrier.
- We persuaded the ATF to give us back the site much sooner than normal, allowing the structural engineers and cost consultants to assess damage and make recommendations.
- Every Harkins subcontractor stayed with the job and joined in the effort to build it in record time – framing was accomplished in 30 days.
Excellent job by the entire Harkins team. Their dedication to this difficult project was remarkable.
Awards & Certifications
Novogradac Tax Credit Housing Developers Conference
Development of Distinction – LIHTC Development that Best Reflects Market Success in Overcoming Significant Obstacles