GOOD NEWS
What’s Happening in The EastShore Pittsburgh
The good news of neighborhoods of Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin, and Swissvale are many times overlooked by bad news. Great things are happening here!
Check out our YouTube channel for videos of some of our great businesses and what our four communities have to offer. EastShore Pgh – YouTube
#VisitEastShore #VisitEastShorePgh #Braddock #NorthBraddock #RankinBorough15104 #Swissvale #LiveWorkPlay #GreatPlaceToLive #EconomicDevelopment #SmallBusiness #SmallBiz #ShopEatPlay #EZCB
2024 EZCB Annual Meeting
The 2024 Annual Meeting of the Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock was held on February 13. Vice President Michael Aldrich and Treasurer Michael Tobias retired from the Board of Directors. Danielle Vasquez of Triton Holdings in Rankin and Chelsea Burket, owner of the Swissvale Dari Delite were elected to replace them on the Board. Mary Manges of the Braddock’s Battlefield History Center was elected as a non-profit organization representative. Rob Parker returns as a Board Member representing Braddock Council.
Subsequently, the following Executive Committee officers were elected:
President: William J. Pfoff
Vice President: David Gumpher
Secretary: Deneen Swartzwelder, Mayor of Swissvale
Treasurer: Charles Bennett
EZCB has been successful in securing substantial funding to implement the EastShore Report. This strategy document was undertaken in conjunction with the Urban Land Institute based in Washington, D.C. At the February 13 meeting the Board of Directors authorized funding various initiatives and other actions to support community and economic development in the boroughs of Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale. According to EZCB President William Pfoff,
“We’re seeing new investment taking place in the neighborhoods and business districts. At the Carrie Furnace site, one new building is nearing completion and a second one is planned. The goal of the EastShore Initiative is ‘Improving Prosperity in the EastShore!’ We look forward to working with our local government partners, private sector representatives and the non-profit groups to transform the area.”
Enterprize Zone Corp of Braddock Executive Director Search
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
THE ENTERPRISE ZONE CORP. OF BRADDOCK
SERVING BRADDOCK, NORTH BRADDOCK, RANKIN AND SWISSVALE
The Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock (EZCB) is a non-profit development corporation serving Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale. Incorporated in 1986, the EZCB has directed economic development activities assisting in over 125 projects, leveraging over $400 million of investment and creating hundreds of jobs. In 2022 the EZCB engaged the Urban Land Institute (ULI) to undertake a strategic plan for the area. To access the strategic plan developed by the ULI, the EastShore Report, go to www.eastshorepgh.com, click on the “About” page and scroll down to the EastShore Report. If there is any difficulty accessing the report, please request a copy from EZCB Administrator Charles Starrett at chstarrett@comcast.net.
This newly created position will coordinate and direct the organization including the implementation of the EastShore Report. The Executive Director will report directly to the Board of Directors.
Minimum requirements include a relevant degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university with experience in public administration, community and economic development.
Please see the full job description below.
For more information on EZCB activities, go to www.eastshorepgh.com.
Candidates must submit via e-mail a cover letter with salary requirements, resume and at least three (3) references to EZCB Administrator Charles Starrett at chstarrett@comcast.net.
Please – no phone calls. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock Executive Director Scope of Services
Annual Salary- $90,000
Plus Fringe Benefits – Will include health benefits, a retirement benefit and paid time off.
To coordinate and direct the Braddock-North Braddock-Rankin-Swissvale economic and community development activities for and on behalf of the Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock (the corporation). The scope of work is as follows:
Strategy and Implementation
- Assist in the development and implementation of the corporation’s EastShore Initiative and the Strategic Plan prepared by the Urban Land Institute including coordinating fundraising efforts for plan implementation.
- Develop and implement strategies to target business and industrial expansion and development.
- Provide liaison to the Boroughs, Allegheny County and other organizations involved in the economic and community development activities.
Financial Management and Operations
- Establish proper financial management systems in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in accordance with applicable Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), Allegheny County (AC), and other funding requirements for the management of all funds that come to the corporation in relation to DCED, AC, foundation and private donations and other funding. Financial management will be the responsibility of the newly hired Executive Director who will coordinate with existing EZCB staff to ensure proper transition and establishment.
- Establish a record-keeping system for the collection and maintenance of all documentation required by DCED, AC, and others in compliance with all regulations. Record keeping will be the responsibility of the newly hired Executive Director who will coordinate with existing EZCB staff to ensure proper transition and establishment.
- Prepare and submit to DCED, AC, and funding provided by others and the Boroughs of Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale necessary reports and evaluation forms and to assist in providing information to these entities via written and verbal communication as required.
- Ensure that all relevant records are available for audit and/or preparation of I.R.S. Form 990 by others.
Loan Program Management
- Loan Administration and Servicing Scope of Work
(a.) Establishing appropriate files for each loan.
(b.) Establishing a payment schedule with the debtor.
(c.) Monitoring the monthly payments, receipt of the same, posting of the same, forwarding of the same to the appropriate account(s) of the Corporation and manage same.
(d.) Secure job monitoring reports from debtors on quarterly basis.
(e.) Prepare semi-annual reports on behalf of the Corporation for submission to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
(f.) Report to Corporation Board the status of accounts; contact with respect to any delinquencies; and preparation and forwarding to counsel for the Corporation any and all documents for said counsel for the Corporation to effectuate formal legal efforts to bring about loan payment, including court action and foreclosure.
- Develop and assist in the administration of the corporation’s Enterprise Zone Small Business Loan Program for the above-referenced program.
- Development and assist in the administration of the corporation’s Building Investment Loan Program.
- Assist business/developers in developing the format for or access to resources to assist in developing business plans and pro-formas and advising them on finding the best available financing.
- Oversee clerical and administrative services as necessary to support program activities.
Organization Management & Development
- Attendance at all Board Meetings of the corporation and oversee all meetings as requested by the corporation including overseeing the transcribing and distribution of minutes of the corporation’s meetings.
- Assist in developing and carrying out a public information program about corporation activities, as required.
- Advise the corporation on actions required to implement the corporation’s programs.
- Assess resources available to expand organization staff. The corporation has budgeted funds for an Administrative Assistant, marketing activities and fundraising activities. These hired positions are at the discretion of the Executive Director and may change to fit the needs of the organization.
Braddock Arts & Media Building (BAM)
This magnificent structure is being transformed into the BAM Building and the new home of Pearl Arts, a nonprofit dance and recording studio that will occup the entire 5,000+ sq ft. third floor. See the exciting announcement here: https://www.pearlartsstudios.com/newfuture.
As of November 2023, the 1st and 2nd floors are available for elease, have open floor plans, 15-foot ceilings, and long-term low rent leases available.
The $17 million renovation of the Braddock Carnegie Library and Theater is just up the block.
If you are interested in learning more or touring the property, please contact Robert Ketcham 412-863-6646 or ketchamphotography@gmail.com
Heritage Highlands in Rankin
The Grand Opening for the Heritage Highlands neighborhood and the Michael F. Doyle Community Center dedication in Rankin was held on November 1. The 54 unit, $20 million first phase of the development represents a transformation of the Hawkins Village site.
Many local and state elected officials along with representatives for the many government agencies were in attendance. Master of Ceremonies Dr. Howard B. Slaughter, Jr. introduced the dignitaries. Dr. Slaughter is very familiar with the area as he was a banker in Braddock and served as Treasurer of the Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock (EZCB).
Former Congressman Doyle and a native of Swissvale, who recently retired, was honored for his 28 years in the U.S. Congress and his support for the Heritage Highlands development and the many projects and initiatives he supported.
The Mayor and members of Rankin Council were cited for their cooperation in helping the project move forward.
The master plan will be completed in two phases. The $20 million first phase which broke ground in June 2022, is now available for new tenants. The $22 million second phase will provide an additional 51 units.
- Pictured Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Mike Doyle at Heritage Highlands.
- Pictured in front of the Michael F. Doyle Community Center are (Left – Right) Bill Pfoff, Rankin Council Member and EZCB President, Rankin Council Vice President Faye Powell and William (Lucky) Price, Rankin Council President.
Carrie Furnace Development
First panel going up at Carrie Furnace September 19, 2023. #crepgh
Rankin Borough Exits Act 47
“Rankin Borough’s celebration of exiting Act 47 has been a labor of love for our community. I commend the current and past council members, mayors, our staff and residents. Their commitment and persistence to stay on course to reach this moment is a wonderful reflection of each and every one of us. The new development within the borough and fiscal independence just proves that when you stay focused, committed and work together all things are possible. This is the beginning of endless possibilities for Rankin, “ – Council President Price.
Carrie Furnace – RIDC
Construction has begun at Carrie Furnace! This has been more than 20 years in the planning. Regional Industrial Development Corporation (RIDC) has a couple of videos on the site availability and history. You can also see stories on how this project evolved at the RIDC website Home – RIDC: Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern Pennsylvania.
RIDC catalyzes and supports economic growth through high quality job creation, real estate development and financing of projects that advance the public interest – developing real estate to capture emerging and existing growth opportunities across diverse industry sectors.
Pittsburgh Business Times article Construction underway at historic Carrie Furnace site – Pittsburgh Business Times (bizjournals.com)
And coming soon The Pittsburgh Film Office. Carrie Furnace – Pittsburgh Film Office (pghfilm.org)
EZCB Board Election 2023
At the EZCB Annual Meeting on February 14, members re-elected Michael Aldrich, David Gumpher and Mary Manges to the Board of Directors. Also, Chuck Bennett of First Commonwealth Bank was elected to represent a financial institution position on the Board.
Subsequently Board Members elected the following Executive Officers:
- William J. Pfoff, President
- Michael J. Aldrich, Vice President
- Deneen Swartzwelder, Secretary
- Michael Tobias, Treasurer
Mr. Pfoff said “We have a good team in place to continue our work in the EastShore communities. Implementation of the Urban Land Institute Strategic Plan is a top priority along with supporting the exciting redevelopment of the Carrie Furnace site.”
EZCB Business Loan Program Guidelines
EZCB low-interest loans stimulate business development and create new jobs. Projects can include acquiring land and buildings, renovations and infrastructure improvements, purchase of machinery and equipment, and building inventory and working capital.
The number of jobs to be created, especially for local residents, will be a factor in determining the amount of the loan. Loans can be up to 50% of the total project cost, with a maximum of $100,000. The loan must be secured with adequate collateral. The fixed interest rate is 4%.
12/6/22 – EZCB Annual Dinner – US Steel Presentation
The members of the Enterprise Zone Corp (of Braddock) representing the 4 communities of the #EastshorePgh came together for their year end dinner on December 6 at Mary’s Vine in Rankin. The mayors were in attendace – Cletus Lee of North Braddock Borough, Joelisa McDonald of Rankin, Deneen Swartzwelder of Swissvale and Delia Lenon of Braddock Borough. The evening’s speaker was United States Steel Corporation’s Kurt Barshick, a Pittsburger, who is the General Manager – North American Flat-Rolled – Mon Valley Works which is made up of the Clairton Plant (coking operation), Edgar Thomson Plant (primary opertions), Irvin Plant (finishing), and Fairless Plant (galvanizing). USS has pledged $1M for the refurbishment of the Braddock Carnegie Library. Part of Mr. Barshick’s message was that there are good paying jobs available here for those willing to work hard. The Economic Impact in the Pittsburgh Region includes being the area’s largest manufacturer, and Mon Valley works expenditures in 2018 was over $3B, there are 3,000 people employed directly and 10,500 support jobs and $4.6B in economic output throughout the region.
10/14/22 – Carrie Furnace Groundbreaking
Federal, State and Local Officials along with interested parties were on hand for the RIDC groundbreaking at the historical Carrie Furnace in Rankin and Swissvale.
Attending at the Carrie Furnace Groundbreaking: (from left) Rankin Council President Lucky Price, Swissvale native and United States Representative Mike Doyle, Swissvale Mayor and EZCB Secretary Deneen Swartzwelder and Rankin Councilman and EZCB President Bill Pfoff.
9/29/22 – $9.2M Allegheny County Federal Stimulus funds
Funds will be used for the “Great Allegheny Passage trail on the homestead side of the river and create new trails to improve access on the Rankin side. That includes rehabilitating the long-closed hot metal bridge that linked Carrie to the former U.S. Steel Homestead Works, creating a new nine-mile connection upriver to the Westmoreland Heritage Trail in Trafford.”
9/26/22 – Heritage Highlands in Rankin
Heritage Highlands will be a family development located on the site of the former Hawkins Village community in Rankin, Pennsylvania. On the site, the Allegheny County Housing Authority (ACHA) operated a 198-unit public housing community that needed an overall transformation and revitalization. ACHA is working with Pennrose-Falbo to demolish the existing units and build a new, well-planned community in two phases of new construction. Phase I consists of nineteen (19) two-story buildings and a new community building, for a total of fifty-four (54) new high-quality units.
The community will be 100% affordable, with all units restricted to tenants with household incomes at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The development will include a community building with onsite management space, supportive service space, and a community room. The development will also include green space, playgrounds, and a basketball court.
The total development cost of Phase I is approximately $15 million.
Photo: Rankin Council President William Price and Enterprise Zone Board Member discussed the project and the cooperative efforts of public and private entities at the Groundbreaking on September 26, 2022.
9/23/22 – NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Chuck Starrett, EZCB Administrator at chstarrett@comcast.net
On September 20 at the Grand View Golf Club in North Braddock the Enterprise Zone serving Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale announced the EastShore Plan prepared by the Urban Land Institute (ULI). Approximately 50 people heard former Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Murphy, a Senior Fellow with ULI, review the plan and discuss initiatives to improve the EastShore area.
Mr. Murphy encouraged the group to “dream big” to transform the area. He cited the success of groups that have revitalized their communities. He said he can see similar success taking place in the EastShore.
Also, Tim White, Senior Vice President, Business Development and Strategy with the Regional Industrial Development Corporation, reviewed development plans for the former Carrie Furnace site. A groundbreaking for new buildings is being scheduled for this Fall. Construction on a Tech Flex Building for tenants and a building to be used by the Pittsburgh Film Office to attract film production projects to the Pittsburgh area will begin in the Spring of 2023.
According to Enterprise Zone President William Pfoff, “We’ve been awaiting development of the land at Carrie Furnace in Rankin for many years. Allegheny County, who owns the land, and RIDC are moving quickly on bringing new development and jobs. They’re working closely with a Steering Committee comprised of local officials and residents”.
Mr. Pfoff continued, “The EastShore Plan offers a vision for the future of the area. We will now move forward in implementing the plan in conjunction with our municipal, non-profit and private sector partners.”
The EZCB is the designated economic development organization for the boroughs of Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale. For more information call the EZCB office at 412-371-6380 or visit the websites at www.ezcb.org and www.eastshorepgh.com.
7/8/2022 – RIDC & Carrie Furnace
More development funding for part of the Carrie Furnace property is in the news. Construction jobs could start as early as Spring 2023.
“A low-interest $2.2 million state loan has been approved for the Regional Industrial Development Corp. of Southwestern Pennsylvania to be used on construction of a new $10 million flex-industrial building in Rankin, near the historic Carrie Furnaces.”
RIDC gets $2.5 million loan for new building near Carrie Furnaces | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
6/9/2022 – The Urban Land Institute Strategic Plan “Dreaming Big Dreams”
You can watch the ULI ZOOM presentation here: https://uli.zoom.us/rec/share/ehMFyXkwCDoOwga6JCRyFj2mRGHTVI6EElJPZ2-ZmZ0yfrmBTOOV_w_sEZjLB3_a.XPXUFaXdpOgmn9iz
Passcode: 2sc&i3qc
On Thursday, June 9, a group of renowned urban planning and real estate experts convened by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) made recommendations to the Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock (EZCB), serving Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale on policies and initiatives to improve community and economic development conditions. The presentation of a Strategic Plan was discussed at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit at The Waterfront.
Sponsored by the EZCB, the panel is with ULI’s Advisory Services Program which connects urban planning and real estate experts to explore solutions to community challenges. The panel has toured the area and interviewed approximately 60 stakeholders to understand the area’s needs and deliver advice on how to improve community and economic conditions.
The panel was chaired by Alan Razak, Principal, AR Spruce LLC, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. “We are excited to be part of the EastShore initiatives. The panel sees tremendous opportunity in the four boroughs. The proximity of the Monongahela River and the Universities provide this area with an incredible advantage. The communities need to have an articulated vision that all of the boroughs can use to raise money and complete the projects that will make them part of the larger success in Pittsburgh. We look forward to providing input to that vision.”
Mr. Razak was joined on the panel by four other professionals from around the United States.
6/5/22 – EZCB and Urban Land Institute to Undertake Strategic Plan for EastShore
The Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock (EZCB) has entered into an agreement with the Urban Land Institute (ULI), based in Washington, D.C., to undertake a Strategic Plan for the EastShore area. EastShore is an initiative of EZCB to promote the assets and opportunities and the many events and activities taking place in the communities of Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale.
ULI’s Advisory Services Program has decades of providing assistance to cities, towns and organizations throughout the United States and the world.
This 3-day panel will begin this work on Monday, June 6, 2022, here in the EastShore area. During that time the panel, directly and through its staff, will study the designated area; consult with public and private officials, representatives of other relevant organizations, and other individuals familiar with the problems involved; and prepare its conclusions and recommendations which will be presented to the EZCB in oral form at the close of the on-site assignment. Subsequently, the ULI panel will provide a summary report on the panel’s conclusions and recommendations.
EZCB President William Pfoff said, “We’re excited about securing the services of a prestigious organization like the Urban Land Institute. They’ve done great work with groups in developing plans and strategies to help the economic and social conditions in those areas. With our EastShore Initiative we’re transforming our organization and how we work with our member communities.”
8/2/2022 – Steel Valley Fabricators, LLC Receives Enterprise Zone Loan
The Enterprise Zone Corp. of Braddock (EZCB), serving Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale, closed on its 61st Enterprise Zone loan with Steel Valley Fabricators, LLC. The company is located in Braddock. The loan of $160,000 will be used to acquire industrial equipment. Steel Valley Fabricators, LLC was recently incorporated by parent company Conway-Phillips Holding, LLC after the assets of Gray Welding were acquired at the beginning of the year.
Lenny Phillips, President, said “This is an exciting time for our company. We will significantly increase our business activity and employment. The Enterprise Zone has helped us in financing our business development many times. We’re pleased to be here in Braddock. It’s a great place for our business!”
According to EZCB President Bill Pfoff, “We’re pleased to help the company continue to grow. We worked with them to locate here in Braddock and previously provided two (2) Enterprise Zone loans. They’re great people to work with – and we’re proud of their success.”
Check out some great EastShore videos on YouTube:
*9/14/22 Swissvale Dari Delite has 30 days or so left in the year so you can get to and enjoy the @swissvaledaridelite, it doesn’t mean things are slowing down at this business. There are fall specials, a new element to the sign that is being refurbished and a celebration being planned on 10/15. Check out these videos to see some of the action happening.
Thank you to Chelsea for your support of Enterprise Zone Corp of Braddock and its EastShore Pittsburgh initiative! Chelsea Burket thanks the communities: https://youtube.com/shorts/pZN7OWM963k?feature=share
Pumpkin Roll Sundae: Swissvale Dari Delite’s Chelsea Burket makes the Pumpkin Roll Sundae – YouTube
Dari Delite sunburst: Sunburst added to Swissvale Dari Delite sign – YouTube
*4/20/22 Marty Busch, owner of Busch Brothers Tire Service Inc., tells us about the company’s history, his son Jason’s talents, their membership in the Enterprise Zone Corp and how it has impacted the neighborhood including the Swissvale Dari Delite. This Swissvale mainstay business has been a member of the EZCB for more than 10 years. It’s more than a tire store so don’t let the name fool you! Contact Busch Bros at 412-351-5342 for tires and alignments, PA state inspection and emissions testing and mechanical work. https://youtu.be/TBHKEfgUux4
*3/9/22 Emily Mercurio, co-owner of Civic Mapper, talks about why she thinks Swissvale is a great place to Live, Work & Play! Diversity, long-term neighbors, great walking community, good views from the hill and available housing stock are among the reasons her company calls Swissvale home and why she’s raising her family here. https://youtu.be/MFDdqbhA1Wc
*1/19/22 Augie Carlino, Rivers Of Steel President and CEO and Enterprise Zone Board Member talks about exciting times in the EastShorePgh! The Carrie Furnaces redevelopment, in conjuntion with Allegheny_Co and RIDC will bring jobs and more people to Rankin Boro 15104 and Swissvale! youtu.be/NpVGHvdQlIU
*12/13/21 Rob Parker, President of Braddock Council & Enterprise Zone Board Member, discusses all the great things happening in Braddock! https://youtu.be/BdHL0BdkoJY
*11/29/21 – Epic Metals in Rankin is a Manufacturer of steel roof and floor deck ceiling systems as well as architectural and sunscreen systems that are used throughout the country on large commercial construction projects. https://youtu.be/OA7B2VlfZoY
* 7/21/2021 – Asti’s Italian Steakhouse offers a great menu, full service bar and spectacular views of the #EastShorePgh and Mon Valley! Francis Kyle Asti talks about the opportunities and how the communities have been welcoming and supportive. Contact 412-351-2170 or www.astiitaliansteakhouse.com. https://youtu.be/aiuCG8_uHCs
* 7/14/2021 – The reopening of the Swissvale Dari Delite was great news for Swissvale and the communities of the #EastShore! Chelsea Burket, owner of the iconic business, received support from the Enterprise Zone Corp (www.ezcb.org) with funding. The communities have been excited to see the business opened and thriving! https://youtu.be/phhO5rlxxJ4
*4/28/2021 – Have you seen the Triton dumpsters and wondered about the great artwork? Danielle Vasquez, President of Triton Pittsburgh, explains the use of graffiti and what Triton does in the #EastShorePgh and beyond. https://youtu.be/_neSjxOW3Xo
* 4/7/2021 – Lenny Phillips, President of Phillips Tank & Structure, tells how he chose Braddock & Rankin for his company and why he’s happy to be expanding the business in the EastShore! https://youtu.be/mYRLbWbHAvM
* 3/24/2021 – What’s not to love about Swissvale? Here the Mayor and Enterprise Zone Board Member, Deneen Costanza Swartzwelder, has an update about what’s happening. https://youtu.be/a36-Ru3D43I
* 3/10/2021 – Braddock’s Battlefield History Center is part of the EastShore Pittsburgh, a program of the Enterprise Zone Corp of Braddock. It’s a great asset to North Braddock, check out the video and visit soon! www.braddocksbattlefield.com
https://youtu.be/ylKI71jud_4
* 2/24/2021 – Enterprise Zone Corp of Braddock‘s President & Rankin Council VP, Bill Pfoff, introduces a recap of the annual report found on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v/=__ZHYOPTzWE
* 10/19/2020 – The Ohringer building becomes artist residences – https://youtu.be/5FAaJXR3PnI
* 10/4/2018 – Tom Murphy discusses opportunities for the communities in the EastShore – https://youtu.be/Ec9q9G0Xloo (See Post article)
Former Mayor Tom Murphy urges ‘East Shore’ to ‘kick the door down’ | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Articles and other notables:
*2021 Pittsburgh City Paper “Best of Pittsburgh“
*9/1/21 Carrie Furnace Could Go From Industrial Site to Film Studio Next Pittsburgh article.
*8/30/21 Carrie Furnace redevelopment Post Gazette article.
2020 EZCB Selected For Allegheny Conference’s Strengthening Communities Partnership
*11/21/19 Carrie Furnace redevelopment Post Gazette article.
2020 Update:
EZCB Selected For Allegheny Conference’s Strengthening Communities Partnership
The Enterprise Zone, serving Braddock, North Braddock, Rankin and Swissvale, has been selected to participate in the Allegheny Conference’s prestigious Strengthening Communities Partnership. This program stimulates regional vitality by forging collaboration between businesses and community leaders to improve neighborhoods across Southwestern Pennsylvania. The EZCB is one of sixteen (16) groups participating in the program.
“In order to build our next generation economy for all, we need a vital, globally competitive economy where thriving people live in the highest quality of place,” said Stefani Pashman, CEO Allegheny Conference. “This involves creating the right opportunities for the business community to contribute to economic advancement of struggling neighborhoods. The Conference is uniquely positioned to help build strong relationships between business and community leaders and has committed resources to assist our 16 community partners.”
Since its inception in 2012, SCP has assisted communities to bring in over $15M in revenue, close to 50% coming from tax credit funds. By expanding the program, SCP will benefit close to 200,000 residents in the Pittsburgh region.
EZCB President William Pfoff said “Since we started our EastShore Initiative we’re seeing a lot of energy among our public and private sector representatives. The SCP will help us to achieve a stronger momentum in our economic transformation. Working with the SCP we have the opportunity to access new public and private resources and tools”. Mr. Pfoff added, “We’re witnessing new private investment in business and residential sectors in our communities. The Allegheny Conference has recognized the progress we’re making and we’re thankful to them for including us in their efforts to continue the progress in revitalizing the region.”
PITTSBURGH, Dec. 8 (Lee: State to invest $455,450 in local projects, nonprofits (pahouse.com)) – At a time of great economic uncertainty, state Rep. Summer Lee, D-Allegheny, today is thrilled to announce that the state will invest more than $455,000 in local nonprofits, community initiatives, projects and programs through a state tax credit program.
“Many of these organizations and nonprofits directly serve their communities, whether its through food distribution, housing, commercial redevelopment or educational programs,” Lee said. “During these tough economic times, I know how thinly they are stretched, and how they have stepped up to help their neighbors during this crisis. But this also represents a long-term investment in communities which for decades have been left on their own and will encourage additional private investment as well.”
By providing tax credits to businesses that donate capital, the Neighborhood Assistance Program encourages private sector investment into communities to support projects that address neighborhood and community problems.
Locally, programs funded included:
- Hazelwood Initiative, $240,000 — Housing and commercial redevelopment.
- Mon Valley Initiative, $160,000 – Residential stabilization program in Braddock.
- Center of Life, Hazelwood, $27,500 – Food delivery, educational services, creation of community learning hub for youth.
- Enterprise Zone Corp of Braddock, $20,350 – Business development through revolving enterprise loan program.
- Community Kitchen, Hazelwood, $7,600 – Meal distribution, support services.
For a full list of programs and projects in southwestern Pennsylvania, follow this link.