Passive House Design Accelerates Affordability

Former YMCA building in McKeesport is enhanced by Passive House design

On December 12, 2012, community leaders and stakeholders gathered at McKeesport Downtown Housing, McKeesport, PA to celebrate the start of construction on what is billed to be the first example of Passive House design in multifamily housing in the United States. The complex focuses on housing those at risk for homelessness.

Passive House is defined as a German building standard of constructing airtight buildings that need little to no outside heat or cooling sources to keep comfortable. The design eliminates the need for a central boiler and chiller, which saves on the capital cost of the equipment and the maintenance and repair costs over the years.

McKeesport Downtown Housing, an 84-unit complex and former YMCA, is undergoing a massive makeover as a supportive housing facility. HUD's Supportive Housing Program provides housing and services that allow homeless persons to live as independently as possible.

Action Housing, as long term owner and manager of the building, is committed to transforming the structure into a high performing property with energy and cost efficiencies built in. The strategy to reduce its carbon footprint will minimize utility usage while also offering residents a healthy indoor air quality.

The primary investor of McKeesport Downtown Housing is PNC Bank. Other supporters include the City of McKeesport, McKeesport Housing Authority, Allegheny County Department of Human Services, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Allegheny Department of Development, Pittsburgh Foundation, HUD and the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh.

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