Salem Heights Apartments

POAH began renovations in June 2021 and in 2023 completed a $40M renovation that drastically increased interior air quality and energy efficiency of the building, bringing it close to Passive House standards. It included a complete replacement of the building envelope (siding, sheathing, windows and roofs), major upgrades to the building systems (a new individualized HVAC unit in every apartment and the replacement of the kitchen plumbing stacks), an assortment of interior unit upgrades such as new kitchens, baths and flooring, and the conversion of 15 units to ADA standards. 

The management office and resident amenity spaces were renovated and expanded including new and improved outdoor spaces; a new playground at the front of the building and upgrades to the existing patio and courtyard. Sidewall solar panels have been installed, and additional rooftop solar panels were planned. With the help of ARPA and CDBG funding from the City of Salem, POAH installed resident Wi-Fi that is offered free to residents.

Salem Heights was built in the early 1970s as affordable housing under a HUD subsidized loan. At the time, the 283 units represented 15% of the city's total privately-owned affordable housing supply.