Perry Point Veterans Village
Perryville, MD
welcoming our veterans home
Located on the VA Medical Center campus in Perryville, MD, the HELP Perry Point Veterans development consists of 75 renovated and newly constructed units for at-risk and formerly homeless veterans. Perry Point dates to 1917 when the Atlas Powder Company leased the property and constructed a large ammonium nitrate plant. Soon after the completion of the plant and the village, the manufacturing of ammonium nitrate was no longer needed. The facility functioned as a general hospital that provided care for patients with various disabilities and later became a hospital that focused on neuropsychiatric care.
Given its historical significance, it was important to retain as much of the village’s original character as possible. The scope of revitalization on the 30-acre site included the complete demolition and reconstruction of 33 buildings, new construction of 33 buildings, substantial renovations to nine additional single-family homes, and a new management and support building.
Both the rehabilitated and new structures were built to the new zero energy standard and HERS50 (Home Energy Rating System). This cutting-edge construction includes high-efficiency fixtures, appliances, high insulation values, EnergyStar compliant roofing, lights, and mechanical equipment. With these features, the HERS50 rating specifies that the homes use 50% less energy than a standard house. As an added feature, a four-acre, 455Kw solar-array field was installed for the village.
The completed project is nothing less than inspiring. In an otherwise dilapidated community, this redevelopment has created a renewed sense of life, providing veterans the opportunity to reside in new net-zero energy homes near the much-needed services of the VA medical center.
How Harkins Made a Difference
- Prior to construction, Harkins had to verify if the soils were contaminated because of the lead-based paint chipping from the exterior of the homes, and to what extent this was occurring. To test for contaminates, soil samples were taken. After thorough testing before we were cleared, 5,389 tons of contaminated dirt was excavated and hauled to a soil facility in Delaware for disposal. Once all the soil was removed, certified clean stone dust was brought in from a local quarry to serve as the base layer before topsoil was installed to cover the remainder of the site.
- Stabilization efforts and the sequencing of work was critical. After the homes’ interior was demolished, it became apparent that the exterior walls lacked the stability and strength to support the homes. Many of the buildings were gutted down to the studs and sheathing was installed to provide needed back up for the exterior wall system and keep the buildings tight. Harkins continued to develop creative solutions to keep the project going.
I think the end result speaks for itself, but the process was overall a good experience.
Awards & Certifications
Affordable Housing Finance
Reader’s Choice Awards – Winner
Special Needs