Hill District Revitalization Project Secures $50 Million Federal Infusion to Pittsburgh Housing Authority
Pittsburgh’s Hill District is about to witness a remarkable transformation in its affordable housing landscape as the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh secures a coveted federal grant worth $50 million. This significant infusion of funds marks the beginning of an ambitious endeavor to completely rebuild the city’s oldest public housing community, Bedford Dwellings, into a vibrant mixed-income neighborhood.
U.S. Senator John Fetterman emphasizes the importance of this investment, stating, “Housing is a human right, and this massive investment will help create more affordable housing in Pittsburgh and improve the conditions of this complex and neighborhood.” Senator Bob Casey shares his optimism, envisioning a place where residents can thrive in a vibrant and safe environment.
The Hill Community Development Corporation (Hill CDC) expresses its elation over the news, recognizing the critical need for housing and economic investment in the area. Bedford Avenue, a vital artery connecting Downtown to neighboring communities, stands to benefit greatly from this transformative project.
The grant was awarded through the highly competitive Choice Neighborhoods program by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The authority’s application outlines a grand vision of replacing all 411 units of Bedford Dwellings with over 800 mixed-income units. This comprehensive redevelopment plan will include at least 411 units of deeply affordable housing, approximately 200 income-limited units, and around 200 market-rate units.
Pittsburgh’s housing authorities have been actively engaged in pursuing funding opportunities for revitalization efforts. This successful grant follows the previous use of Choice Neighborhoods funds to redevelop parts of East Liberty and Larimer, with potential plans for the Allegheny Dwellings community in Fineview.
The master plan encompasses a trend seen across housing agencies, blending private and public resources to develop thriving communities. The journey towards this transformative project began in 2016 when the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh received a $500,000 federal grant to collaborate with Bedford Dwellings residents, the Hill Community Development Corporation, and other groups for a redevelopment plan.
While the 2018 application for Choice Neighborhoods funding initially focused on the “lower” section around Somers Drive and was denied, the authority’s perseverance led to a comprehensive application that encompasses the entire site last year, culminating in this momentous $50 million grant.
The future of Bedford Dwellings and the Hill District looks promising, with a collective commitment from government, community organizations, and housing authorities to create a thriving, inclusive, and dynamic neighborhood for all its residents.
