Once dilapidated and seemingly forgotten, rejuvenated houses on a Pittsburgh street could provide an opportunity for a lawyer, artist or tech startup in need of a low-rent space — at least that’s Councilman Corey O’Connor’s vision.
It’s too soon to talk about a possible price tag, timeline or even location of the so-called “opportunity spaces,” city officials say, but the legislation Mr. O’Connor will present Tuesday would authorize the city Department of Finance and the Urban Redevelopment Authority to create a pilot program for about three houses.
“If we could get all three on one street, that’s great, because then it brings a new energy. It brings new businesses there. Hopefully that spurs some economic development,” the councilman said.
His resolution calls for the finance department to identify city-owned properties or those available through treasurer’s sale and, with the URA, to determine which could become become “affordable commercial space for entrepreneurs and business owners” before selling it to a nonprofit.
Considerations for selecting properties could include zoning and the amount of money needed to rehab the property, said Paul Leger, city finance director.
“This is a real attempt to put businesses in a place where they are comfortable and can afford, and will have some positive community impact,” he said.
The finance department and URA would pick tenants, with input from the city’s entrepreneurship advisory board, Mr. O’Connor’s legislation says. Discussion on the resolution could follow May 18, with a vote May 24.
Lexi Belculfine: lbelculfine@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1878. Twitter: @LexiBelc.
First Published: May 9, 2016, 4:00 a.m.
