The project was constructed in two phases. First a 48 unit PHFA and LIHTC funded project was begun followed quickly by a 72 unit LIHTC funded project. The unified theme of the development is Sustainability- for the site, the tenants, the buildings, and the community. The former converted grocery store on the 100% impervious site and remnants of a buried glass factory were removed for the new construction, restoring the site’s connection to its neighbors. Two story porches, hip roofs and material selections related the new buildings to the low scale mixed-use community. The buildings are sited to embrace a community green space facing the Allegheny River and its recreation corridor. The buildings and apartments were designed to allow the tenants to age in place for a much longer time than is possible in other standard housing by bringing services to them. Access to the LIFE Center services is also available to the community at large, allowing the elderly to stay in their homes longer, until they are ready to move. The buildings are interconnected with an open loop geothermal system drilled into the river aquifers in order to significantly reduce energy costs and fossil fuel reliance. Green Roofs are provided for each building’s outdoor gathering space. The project is designated as a 5-Star Energy Star building achieving a HERS score of 42 and is the first open loop geothermal affordable elderly housing development in the country. The development won HUD’s 2008 Energy Star Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing.