NEWS.
Latest & Greatest.
Whether it's a new project, construction industry updates, an employee teaming event or an opportunity to celebrate the best in our community - there's always something to talk about at McDonald Building Company.
MBC is proud to return to Walnut Park Plaza!
MBC is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with MCAP as construction gets underway on the rehabilitation of Walnut Park Plaza, a historic 227-unit affordable senior housing community in Philadelphia's Cobbs Creek neighborhood.
Originally constructed in 1928, this significant rehabilitation will preserve the property's historic character while modernizing building systems, improving accessibility, enhancing common areas, and creating an even better place for residents to call home.
Having partnered on previous projects at Walnut Park Plaza over the years, we're grateful for the opportunity to return for this next chapter. Thank you to MCAP for your continued trust in MBC. We're proud to play a part in preserving and strengthening a community that so many residents already call home. We look forward to sharing progress throughout construction. #buildingontrust #walnutparkplaza #mcap #affordablehousing #seniorhousing #historicpreservation #philadelphiaconstruction
MCap Fund Advisors, KMA Design Studio
Iliana Limon, Jack Kenney, Ed Swank, Harry McCook, Frank Cardone, Regina Ennis, Joshua Gonzalez, Aubrey McDonald, Ryan Herrmann
National Intern Day at MBC spotlights two fantastic team members!
This National Intern Day, we're celebrating two incredible members of the MBC team - Lola McKerns, a rising junior at Temple University studying architecture, and Ryan Herrmann, a Drexel University co-op majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Economics. While their paths to MBC looked a little different, they share the same curiosity, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn about the commercial construction business. From contributing to meaningful projects across Philadelphia to learning alongside our project teams, they've embraced every opportunity to grow.
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Swipe through to get to know Lola and Ryan, hear about their experiences, and see what they've learned along the way. Thank you both for everything you've contributed to MBC this year. We are excited to see where your careers take you and how you'll shape the future of construction. Happy National Intern Day! We appreciate all you do for MBC! #nationalinternday #internship #coop #constructioncareers #futurebuilders #templeuniversity #drexeluniversity #buildingontrust
Temple University Drexel University
University Place is reaching new heights with the SuperDeck® retractable loading platform
Progress at University Place is reaching new heights…one smart solution at a time.
For the Philadelphia Office of Forensic Science fit-out at University Place, three SuperDeck® retractable loading platforms were installed to support material loading across the upper floors.
With approximately 104,000 square feet of work spanning multiple floors, efficient material movement was critical to keeping the project moving safely and on schedule. The SuperDeck system created a dedicated loading area for larger materials, helping reduce reliance on the building’s elevators and keep work moving efficiently.
Behind every successful installation is a great deal of planning and coordination. Temporary façade access along Market Street, careful sequencing, and close collaboration across the project team helped make this installation possible while minimizing disruptions on an active jobsite.
This installation is one example of the planning, partnership, and problem-solving driving progress at University Place that MDSA delivers. Thank you to MDSA, The Dale Collaborative, Preston Rentals USA, Elevated Angles, and the entire project team for another successful milestone. #mdsa #strategicalliance #lifesciences #commercialconstruction #philadelphia #universityplace #mcdonaldbuildingcompany #thedalecollaborative
MDSA, The Dale Collaborative, University Place, Preston Rentals | USA, Elevated Angles
MDSA Project Team: Jeff Graef, Ali Perkey, CHC, Anthony Vespa, Michael Marr, Matthew Coleman, Jared Applegate, Robert Whartnaby, Bill Hallowell, Blair Biggin, BETH CICHONSKI, Aubrey McDonald, Lola McKerns
Father Judge High School Chemistry Lab Renovation is well under way this Summer
School may be out for the summer, but the MBC team is just getting started...We're excited to announce the award of the Father Judge High School Chemistry Lab Renovation in Northeast Philadelphia! This fast-track summer renovation is being transformed into a modern chemistry lab and adjacent lecture space, creating an updated learning environment before students return this fall. With a compressed summer schedule, every day counts and our team is already hard at work and well underway with construction. Thank you to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, MAI and the entire MBC project team for their work to bring this new space to life. #buildingontrust #projectaward #fatherjudgechemistrylab #rennovationproject #philadelphia #mbcbuilds
Archdiocese of Philadelphia, MAI Architects, Father Judge High School
MBC Project Team - Kelly Giuliani (McGettigan), Jeff Graef, Dylan Robertson, Jason Evans, Frank Cardone, Regina Ennis, Beth Giorla, Blair Biggin, Caden DeNicola, Brad Springer
Tree House Books celebrates the exciting next chapter with MLB Legacy and Phillies Charities
Now this was one for the books.
As Philadelphia welcomes the 2026 MLB All-Star Game, we’re proud to celebrate one of the game’s lasting legacies right here in our own community.
Recently, Tree House Books welcomed supporters, project partners, community leaders, MLB, Phillies Charities Inc., and special guests, including Ryan and Krystle Howard, to celebrate one of Philadelphia’s 2026 MLB All-Star Legacy Projects.
As the General Contractor, we are proud to help bring this vision to life through the renovation and expansion of Tree House Books in North Philadelphia. The project combines two three-story Philadelphia rowhomes into one unified library and literacy center featuring a new exterior façade, windows, and roof - creating a vibrant space where reading, learning, creativity, and community can come together under one roof. As part of today’s celebration, Ryan and Krystle Howard were honored with the naming of the All-Star Legacy Literacy Clubhouse, a dedicated reading nook that will inspire young readers for years to come.
The celebration was made even more memorable by the children from the Tree House Books Summer Camp, who were surprised with a visit from the Phillie Phanatic! It was a special day for everyone involved - from our MBC project team to our partners at Becker & Frondorf and Studio 6mm - to celebrate alongside the families, volunteers, donors, and community members who are making this project possible. One highlight of the day? Ryan Howard trading his Phillies cap for an MBC hard hat...we’d say he wears the MBC red pretty well.
We’re grateful to Tree House Books, Phillies Charities, MLB Together, Ryan and Krystle Howard, Becker & Frondorf, Studio 6mm, and everyone who has helped make this project possible. Seeing the excitement today was a reminder that this building is already making an impact - even before its doors officially open. We’re looking forward to welcoming the community this Red October when this incredible new space opens its doors.
#buildingontrust #treehousebooks #phillies #literacy #community #philliescharities #mlbtogether
Tree House Books, Philadelphia Phillies, PHILLIES CHARITIES INC, Major League Baseball (MLB) Together, Ryan Howard, Phillie Phanatic, Becker & Frondorf, Studio 6mm, Premier Building Restoration, Inc., Applewood Enterprises, Tague Lumber Inc., Pella Windows and Doors | Gunton Corporation
MBC Team: Iliana Limon, Justin Lausch, Angelica Kreider, Ryan Herrmann, Joshua Gonzalez, Aubrey McDonald, Caden DeNicola, Andrew Lojewski, Michelle Tyler, Matthew Coleman, Brad Springer, Laura Clevenger, Tom McDonald, Paul McDonald
Walnut Park Plaza is featured in the Philadelphia Business Journal!
Some of our favorite projects begin with familiar faces. MBC is excited to see Walnut Park Plaza featured in the Philadelphia Business Journal as this rehabilitation project moves forward.
It's a privilege to continue our long-standing partnership with Walnut Park Plaza and to once again work alongside MCAP Funds on a project that will preserve a historic Philadelphia landmark while investing in affordable senior housing. Thank you for your continued trust in MBC.
Read more below. https://lnkd.in/gCkHXwPP
MBC celebrates Beth Cichonski’s Promotion to Project Development Coordinator
Please join us in congratulating Beth Cichonski on her promotion to Project Development Coordinator!
Beth has been part of the MBC team for six years and has become someone our team can count on across many different parts of the company. In her role as Project Coordinator, she continuously stands out as a critical team member. Her creative talents and exceptional organizational skills are unmatched, and she brings a thoughtful, solutions-focused approach to everything she touches. Beth also plays an important role in supporting MBC’s proposal and business development efforts.
She is always looking for ways to strengthen our approach, finding innovative ways to showcase our outstanding team and help MBC stand out. In this hybrid role, Beth will continue her work as Project Coordinator while expanding her focus on project development, future opportunities, and the relationships that help move MBC forward.
"Beth's initiative, creativity, and commitment to continuously learning is admirable. She is a tremendous asset to our company and I am excited to see her maximize her many talents to help us grow," said Laura Clevenger, VP Marketing & Administration.
Congratulations, Beth! We're grateful for the care, initiative, and creativity you bring to MBC every day, and we’re excited to see you continue to grow in this next role. #buildingontrust #promotion #mbcfamily #teamupdate #mbcbuildsfromwithin
Happy 250th from all of us at MBC!
Happy Fourth of July! This year feels a little extra special as Philadelphia celebrates 250 years of our nation’s history. Every day, we’re fortunate to work in a city with such a remarkable past while helping create spaces for its future. It’s something we never take for granted. Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing, and happy Independence Day from all of us at MBC. #buildingontrust #fourthofjuly #philly250 #america250 #independenceday
Philadelphia Zoo Bear Country shows only progress, no hibernation here!
We can't stop and won't stop talking about Francis J. Carey Bear Country at Philadelphia Zoo.
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Throwing it back to where Bear Country began. The drone shots capture just a few moments from the transformation. Behind every flight was a team navigating Philadelphia winters, shifting schedules, and the unique challenge of building inside an active zoo. Projects like this don't always follow a straight path. Building a habitat meant adapting to changing conditions, adjusting the plan when needed, and working together to keep the project moving forward without losing sight of the bigger picture. Looking back makes opening day even more rewarding. The hard work never hibernated. Congrats again to our Zoo Crew! #buildingontrust#mbcbuilds#philadelphiazoo#welcometothembcfamily#careybearcountry#conservationmatters#aza#partnership
RING THE BELL FOR MATT! MBC celebrates huge milestone for our colleague and friend, Matt Coleman
Every project starts with a milestone. This week, so did a new chapter.
At McDonald Building Company, our project bell is traditionally rung to celebrate the award of a new project and the beginning of what’s ahead…This week, we were honored to ring it for something even more meaningful.
Surrounded by his family and work family, Matt Coleman rang the bell to celebrate the completion of chemotherapy and the beginning of his next chapter.
Over the past 15 months, we’ve watched Matt face every obstacle with extraordinary strength, resilience, and perspective. Through surgeries, treatments, and countless challenges, he’s reminded us that courage isn’t found in one defining moment. It’s built one day, one step, and one milestone at a time.
In Matt’s own words, “Milestones matter.”
We couldn’t agree more.
While no one would choose the road Matt has traveled, we are incredibly grateful to celebrate this moment alongside him. Ringing our project bell wasn’t just about recognizing everything he’s overcome. It was also about looking ahead with hope and honoring what comes next.
Matt, thank you for reminding all of us to slow down, celebrate the wins along the way, and appreciate the people who stand beside us. Congratulations, Matt!
We’re proud to stand beside you as you begin this next chapter. #teammbc #buildingontrust #mbccares #braintumorawareness
Matthew Coleman
MBC is beary excited to celebrate Carey Bear Country - Grand Opening!
Bear with us…we’ve been waiting a long time to share this one. Francis J. Carey Bear Country is officially open at Philadelphia Zoo!
This unbelievable and beloved habitat started renovations in February 2025 and landed with an exciting ribbon-cutting on June 4. Through it all, MBC worked with an incredible team of owners, zoo staff, designers, builders, trade partners, donors, and consultants to bring this vision to life.
Today, visitors can experience a state-of-the-art habitat featuring natural climbing structures, immersive viewing opportunities, and thoughtfully designed spaces that support both bear enrichment and guest engagement. The project also included improvements to neighboring Hollenstein Ross Penguin Point, creating even more opportunities for guests to connect with wildlife and conservation efforts throughout the Zoo.MBC was honored to serve as Construction Manager on a project that will create meaningful experiences for families, support the Zoo’s mission, and help inspire future generations of conservationists.
As CM, we had the unique opportunity to help bring these spaces to life while working within an active Zoo environment. From bear and penguin habitats with specialized features and guest-facing improvements, this project challenged our team in all the best ways and showcased what can happen when strong partnerships come together around a shared vision.
A special shoutout to our MBC Zoo Crew - Sam Cellucci, Chris Fernes, Shea Tomlinson Gregory, John Weiland, Regina Ennis, Aubrey McDonald, Joshua Gonzalez, Jared Applegate, Matthew Coleman, and Jeff Graef for helping guide this project from groundbreaking to grand opening.
Thank you to Philadelphia Zoo, PGAV Architects, Dan Bosin Associates, WholeTrees Structures, our trade partners, and the many organizations and individuals who helped make this project possible. Your craftsmanship, collaboration, and commitment helped turn a vision into reality. And to everyone who helped bring neighboring Hollenstein Ross Penguin Point to life, thank you for helping this project waddle its way to the finish line.
The bears have officially moved in, the penguins are settling into their updated home, the gates are open, and we couldn’t be more excited to see visitors experience these spaces for years to come. We can BEAR-ly contain our excitement.#buildingontrust#mbcbuilds#philadelphiazoo#welcometothembcfamily#careybearcountry#conservationmatters#aza#partnership
Philadelphia Zoo, Dan Bosin Associates, PGAV Architects, PGAV Destinations, WholeTrees® Structures, EC Fence & Iron Works, Inc., John J Dougherty & Son, Healy Long & Jevin, Inc, Mar-Allen, Guthrie Glass & Metal Corporation, West Chester Mechanical Contractors, INC., CurrentMaster Electric, LLC., EDA Contractors, Inc., Philadelphia Carpentry Systems, Nets Unlimited Inc, Arena Maintenance Solutions, DiDonato Contracting, General Masonry & Restoration Inc., and OLIVER SPRINKLER OLIVER SPRINKLER
GBCA recognizes MBC in their Member Spotlight this week!
GBCA Member Spotlight: McDonald Building Company
Built on trust and driven by collaboration, McDonald Building Company, LLC continues to deliver high-quality construction management services across the Philadelphia region.
Read more: https://ow.ly/8QpJ50ZcsWA
Final Flyby Friday - Grand Opening Edition for the Apartments at Clearfield!
Fresh off last week's Grand Opening, we're taking a look at Apartments at Clearfield, a new 47,250-square-foot affordable senior housing community developed by NewCourtland in Philadelphia's Allegheny West neighborhood! One year ago, Batman was overhead capturing the topping out of the structure, and last week, he was back for the exciting celebration of completion.
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This four-story community provides 48 affordable one-bedroom apartments for independent seniors, along with thoughtfully designed gathering spaces, supportive services, and amenities that help residents remain connected to the community they call home. Tuesday's celebration brought together project partners, community leaders, residents, and supporters, including remarks from MBC President Paul McDonald. It was a meaningful reminder of what can be accomplished when building partners come together around a shared vision. MBC is grateful to NewCourtland for their partnership and leadership throughout this project, as well as Allegheny West Foundation, PHFA, PHA, Stone Sherick Consulting Group, CBP Architects, our fellow trade partners, and many others whose dedication helped bring this community to life. Philadelphia has a significant need to further housing solutions for aging residents, and we are proud to be a part of this tremendous team. NewCourtland - we are ready for the next one!
Projects like Apartments at Clearfield remind us that our affordable housing work is about more than constructing buildings. It's about creating spaces that support independence, strengthen communities, and provide opportunities for people to thrive for years to come. From sitework to final finishes, dignity is found in the details. #buildingontrust #welcometothembcfamily #mbccares #flybyfriday #affordablehousing #seniorliving #communitydevelopment #newcourtland #philadelphia
NewCourtland, Allegheny West Foundation, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA), Stone Sherick Consulting Group, LLC., CBP Architects
MBC Project Team: Iliana Limon, Ed Swank, BETH CICHONSKI, Beth Giorla, Blair Biggin, Paul McDonald, Tom McDonald, Matthew Coleman, Brad Springer, Danielle Terpoilli, Laura Clevenger
Batman Pilot Extraordinaire - Andrew Lojewski
MBC goes Gray in May in a very MBC way!
MBC Went Gray in May. Throughout May, our team wore gray in support of Brain Tumor Awareness Month and our colleague, Matt Coleman.
Over the past year, we’ve watched Matt navigate an unimaginable journey with strength, grace, and perspective. While awareness campaigns often last a month, the realities of a diagnosis extend far beyond a single calendar page. For us at MBC, going gray was a small way to show support, raise awareness, and remind Matt and his family that they are not walking this road alone.
Along the way, Matt has taught all of us something, too. Through every update, treatment, and milestone, he has reminded us of the power of taking life one step at a time and focusing on what matters most. The support shown throughout May was a reflection of what makes the MBC team special. We celebrate wins together, face challenges together, and show up for one another when it matters most.
Thank you to everyone who participated throughout the month and helped bring awareness to an important cause. Matt, thank you for the perspective you’ve shared with all of us. We’re proud to stand beside you, one step at a time. #mbccares #buildingontrust #braintumorawarenessmonth #gograyinmay #teammbc
GBCA highlights MDSA strategic alliance in latest issue of Construction Today!
Proud to see 3.0 University Place and the future home of Philadelphia’s Office of Forensic Science featured in GBCA’s Construction Today issue! This project represents the power of strong partnerships, thoughtful coordination, and teams aligned around a shared vision from day one. Honored to be part of this work alongside MDSA, Dale Corp, University Place Associates, and the extended project team.
#buildingontrust #lifesciences #construction #mdsa #strategicalliance
General Building Contractors Association (GBCA), UPA | University Place Associates, Dale Corp, MDSA
https://issuu.com/gbca/docs/construction_today_issue_1_2026?fr=xKAE9_zMzMw
MBC honors and remembers this Memorial Day 2026
This Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We are grateful for their courage, their service, and the freedoms they helped protect. Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day from all of us at MBC. #buildingontrust #mbccares #memorialday2026 #honorandremember
SADV hosts Meet and Greet at MBC Norristown Office
Last week, MBC was proud to welcome the Subcontractors Association of Delaware Valley (SADV) to the MBC Norristown office for an afternoon meet & greet with industry partners, colleagues, and friends across the AEC community. It was a great afternoon of presentations, conversation, networking, and connecting with both familiar and new faces. A special shoutout to our fabulous Office Manager, Michelle, for helping the event run so smoothly behind the scenes.
We’re grateful to organizations like SADV that continue creating opportunities for collaboration, education, and relationship building across our industry. Thank you to everyone who stopped by and to SADV for partnering with us on a great event. #buildingontrust #mbccares #sadv #constructionindustry #networking #communityconnections
SADV - Subcontractors Association of Delaware Valley
Brad Springer, Beth Armbruster, MBA, BETH CICHONSKI, Caden DeNicola, Iliana Limon, Jeff Graef, Joshua Gonzalez, Kelly Giuliani (McGettigan), Michelle Tyler, Matthew Coleman
Exciting updates over at Beaumont at Bryn Mawr!
Big things happening out at Beaumont at Bryn Mawr!
MBC is continuing renovations across this active senior living community, with work focused on resident suites, dining areas, wellness spaces, and shared community areas throughout the campus. Over the past two weeks, the team successfully passed all inspections! These are huge milestone moments for the project team, completing this work while residents and staff continue using the community every day. Round of applause to all!
Beaumont continues to come to life room by room, with renovated resident suites and refreshed community spaces thoughtfully built for the residents, families, and staff who rely on them every day....In senior living environments, dignity is in the details. Renovating an occupied senior living community takes a special level of coordination, patience, and care, and we’re grateful for a team of supportive partners. #buildingontrust #mbccares #seniorliving #construction #projectteam #communityconnections
Beaumont at Bryn Mawr, Becker & Frondorf, AEI-AE, Core States Group
Shout out to our MBC Team! Andrew McDonald, Renee Ellick, Michael Mohr, Angelica Kreider, Joshua Gonzalez, and Aubrey McDonald
MBC revisits Maguire Residence by Project HOME
Some projects stay with you over the years. The impact. The importance...and always the team behind it.
Maguire Residence in Philadelphia is one of those special projects, and one we have the pleasure of calling back to from 2020. The 50,000 sq ft. 42 units of permanent supportive housing provide spaces that help support people day-to-day.
As MBC heads into May, we’re grateful for work like this and for partners like Project HOME who make it possible.
#buildingontrust#mbccares#communityconnections#projecthome#mbcfamily
Project HOME | Thriven Design | Eustace Engineering | Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia | Michael A. Beach & Associates
Impact Day leaves an Impact on MBC!
Impact Day 2026 with ACHIEVEability has come and gone, but the impact it has on the community is long-lasting! Last Friday, we felt the Philly pride with a great turnout, a lot of hands at work, 143 porches painted, and over 500 residents served by this tremendous group of volunteers. Big shoutout to our MBC crew Ali, Dylan, Iliana, Josh, Kelly, and Paul (Can we get this crew a show on HGTV?). Proud to be part of something that supports our community and brings our team together. Thank you to ACHIEVEability and all the volunteers who made it happen! #buildingontrust #mbccares #communityconnections #impactday
Paul McDonald, Ali Perkey, CHC, Iliana Limon, Dylan Robertson, Joshua Gonzalez, Kelly Giuliani (McGettigan)
