ULI Philadelphia’s 2021 Awards for Excellence finalists represent superior development projects in the greater Philadelphia region that embody the ULI mission of shaping the future of the built environment for transformative impact in communities worldwide.

Gabe Canuso, Principal at D3 Real Estate Development, developer of Huntingdon Mills, joins us for “Five Minutes with a Finalist”. Here’s what he had to say:

Can you share your favorite story behind this project?

Similar to our previous work at Oxford Mills in the education community, we were very fortunate to have the support of so many organizations in the Health and Human Services nonprofit community for Huntingdon Mills — from the early concept stage through our opening. There were many positive stories throughout, but one of our favorites is the fact that a number of nonprofit organizations who attended our early focus groups on the concept of the project are now our tenants and have truly helped Huntingdon Mills become a hub for the HHS community.

How have you had to respond or shift your project over the past year due to COVID-19?

In early March of 2020, we were just a few months from completing the project when COVID-19 hit. We had to pivot on every front to ensure the safety and well being of our construction team, staff and future tenants until the project was completed and occupied. We followed the CDC and City guidelines diligently while completing construction, finalizing leasing and move in, starting up of operations.

What inspires you the most about Philadelphia and the region right now?

Between both the Huntingdon Mills and Oxford Mills communities, we are fortunate to be surrounded by so many well-intended people who do great things in the greater Philadelphia community. Their hard work, passion and commitment to those in need inspires us every day.

Winners will be announced live at a virtual celebration on June 16. For more information and to register, click here.