The opening of the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s all-electronic Exit 320 to Route 29 in East Whiteland Township in 2012 dramatically reshaped Chester County’s Great Valley, cutting travel times and helping spur billions in commercial and residential investment, including major office expansions by firms like Vanguard and pharmaceutical companies. More than a decade later, however, the real estate market is shifting as post-pandemic demand for traditional office space softens and housing takes priority. Vacant offices are being converted to apartments, large office parks are being marketed for redevelopment, and new multifamily and active-adult projects are rising to meet workforce and affordability pressures in a region where jobs grew 37%, population increased nearly 30%, and median income rose 46% since the interchange opened. Deb Abel, chair of the East Whiteland Township Planning Commission, says workforce development is key to the area's growth. More — and more affordable — housing is key both for current and future staffing needs. Workers shouldn’t have to commute from other areas with more housing options, Abel said.
Source: Philadelphia Inquirer; 1/29/2026