Beacon Communities Begins Affordable Housing Redevelopment in Downtown Pittsburgh

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Beacon Communities, a nonprofit owner-operator, has begun an affordable housing redevelopment project in downtown Pittsburgh. The project involves The May Building, a 12-story structure at 111 Fifth Ave. that was originally completed in 1908 for the May Drug Co. and later converted to an 87-unit apartment complex in 1974. This latest redevelopment will convert 66 of those residences into affordable housing and also upgrade the building's exterior elements, mechanical/utility systems and common spaces.

Why it matters

The redevelopment of The May Building into affordable housing units is an important step in addressing the need for more accessible and equitable housing options in downtown Pittsburgh. As the city continues to experience growth and development, ensuring the availability of affordable housing is crucial to maintaining a diverse and inclusive community.

The details

Beacon Communities, a nonprofit owner-operator, is undertaking the redevelopment of The May Building, a 12-story structure in downtown Pittsburgh that was originally built in 1908 for the May Drug Co. The building was later converted to an 87-unit apartment complex in 1974, and this latest project will convert 66 of those units into affordable housing. In addition to the affordable housing units, the redevelopment will also include upgrades to the building's exterior elements, mechanical/utility systems, and common spaces.

• The May Building was originally completed in 1908.
• The building was converted to an 87-unit apartment complex in 1974.
• Beacon Communities has now begun the latest redevelopment project in 2026.

What’s next

The redevelopment project is currently underway, and Beacon Communities plans to complete the upgrades and conversion of the 66 affordable housing units by the end of 2027.