Ballard Spahr LLP advises a diverse client base on securing complex permits and approvals for real estate development projects, including zoning variances, environmental permitting, and historic preservation matters across Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, Washington, and Baltimore. The practice is jointly led by Baltimore-based Amy McClain, who represents housing authorities and affordable housing developers in complex transactions, and Philadelphia’s Matthew McClure, a trusted adviser to developers, nonprofits, and universities on preservation strategy. Steven Mehr strengthens the Salt Lake City offering with broad zoning and entitlements experience, while Washington’s Jill Parks, who joined the team from Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in April 2025, is noted for her work on transit-oriented, mixed-use developments.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Key clients
- Midwood Investment & Development
- Pearl Properties
- Brevet Capital Management
- Temple University
- Landmark Properties
- HRP Group fka Hilco Redevelopment Partners
- Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation
- Parkway Corporation
- Quaker Lane Realty
- Temple Health Systems
- Allan Domb
- LCOR
- Pennsylvania School for the Deaf
- Westpark Community Partners
- Archwell Health
- The Goldenberg Group
- Temple Health Services
- Saint Joseph’s University
- Comstock Partners, L.C.
- Galerie Livin
Work highlights
Represented client in obtaining zoning and land use approvals for a new development at 200-204 South 12th Street, Philadelphia, including approximately 400 dwelling units and 350,000 square feet.
Advising Temple University on zoning and change of use issues for a project where the team obtained legislative and regulatory approvals for a 195,000 square foot academic building and theater.
Advising on the acquisition out of bankruptcy of the former Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery by HRP.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Amy McClain; Matthew N. McClure
Other key lawyers
Steven Mehr; Jill Parks