First Phase of Riverview Wellness Village Opens

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker unveiled the first phase of Riverview Wellness Village, a pioneering facility for Philadelphians in recovery from substance use disorder.

The multi-phase project is part of a wellness ecosystem conceived by the City of Philadelphia. Riverview Wellness Village is designed to support recovery by providing a dignified and flexible residential environment that positions residents to successfully transition to independent living. Ballinger is leading architecture and engineering for the Village, which will provide treatment as well as workforce development and other services.

“Riverview Wellness Village is an opportunity to renew this complex to meet the needs of today,” said Stephen M. Bartlett, AIA, LEED AP, who is leading design. “Our firm has called Philadelphia home for over 100 years, so it’s a special honor to work on a project that will have a lasting impact on the residents of our city with the greatest needs. Our goal is to design an uplifting and sustainable place that contributes to emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental healing.”

Hundreds attended the press conference, including government officials and Ballinger team members Steve Bartlett, Rob W. Voss, AIA, LEED AP, Roberto Carretero, AIA, LEED AP, Fernanda Pires, EDAC, Lean Greenbelt, and Jonathan Struthers.

When complete, the Village will include six cottages, a central meeting house and a new residential building, totaling 640 beds. The design team includes Ground Reconsidered and KS Engineering, as well as specialty subconsultants. Completion of the full build-out is anticipated in 2025.

Read more coverage from CBS Philadelphia and Fox 29 Philadelphia