Former HUD Philadelphia Head Joins Upper Darby Planning Commission, Advocates for Adaptive Reuse and Upzoning

Robert Ford, who served for nearly 25 years at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, culminating as the top official for eastern Pennsylvania, has joined the Planning Commission for Upper Darby. His departure from HUD in April 2025 was prompted by changes in the second Trump administration, including a reclassification of his position that risked his retirement benefits.

Now working as a real estate agent and affordable housing consultant, Ford was appointed by Mayor Ed Brown to the commission in Upper Darby, a populous municipality bordering Philadelphia. Having lived in the area for 22 years, Ford aims to apply his housing expertise locally. He plans to focus on enabling more housing construction while preserving green spaces, specifically advocating for adaptive reuse projects for old industrial and commercial properties.

Ford also sees potential for upzoning around the 69th Street transit hub to stimulate housing growth and increase foot traffic. This approach mirrors efforts by SEPTA at other regional stations and draws inspiration from mixed-use developments like the King of Prussia Town Center. His appointment signals a push for strategic land use and redevelopment to address housing needs in Upper Darby.