URA Applies for State Redevelopment Funding

The city of Pittsburgh and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) are applying for state grants from the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to move housing projects forward. The application seeks $20 million in state funding for the redevelopment or demolition of foreclosed, abandoned or blighted properties in the city. URA Executive Director Rob Stephany says some of the areas most in need include Sheraden, the Hill District and the Wood Street Commons downtown. Stephany says since the city is competing against other towns in need of funding, the quality of the redevelopment work will have to meet the high expectations of state auditors. The URA may also be involved as the developer of the project, should the application be accepted and the property owners consent.