Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh
About the URA
URA Departments
Business Development Center (BDC)
Encourages and directs private investment in business and business facilities in Pittsburgh for the public interest. The BDC utilizes several revolving loan funds to provide gap financing for: the acquisition of land, building, construction and rehabilitation; equipment; leasehold improvements, and working capital. BDC also provides tax-exempt fixed asset financing for qualified borrowers.
Development Department
Responsible for managing major real estate development projects including site assembly, public financing, municipal approvals and community processes. In addition to the major development projects such as Summerset at Frick Park and the South Side Works, the Department also evaluates and promotes initiatives to support economic development, such as the State Historic Tax Credit Legislation the City's Keystone Opportunity Zone plan.
Executive Offices
In addition to management and policy direction, the Executive Offices encompasses a broad range of development activities. Under the direction of the Deputy Executive Director for Development, the Development staff is responsible for the planning, financing and management of major real estate development projects-those that have a significant impact on land use and economic growth, such as South Side Works and Summerset.
Engineering and Construction Department
Responsible for the detailed planning, engineering and construction management associated with the Authority's publicly supported development projects, this department also conducts site feasibility evaluations establishes design guidelines for projects and programs, and reviews the design of development proposals submitted to the Authority.
Finance Department
Responsible for the accounting and treasury operations of the Authority. It monitors bonds issued for Housing and Economic Development programs and performs ongoing oversight of the Authority's loan portfolio.
Housing Department
Responsible for the operation of all housing programs, and coordinates housing development activities and the design of housing policy of the Authority. Also carries out redevelopment activities by providing market interest mortgage financing to promote homeownership and home improvement, by financing the new construction and rehabilitation of housing for owners and renters, and by raising substantial funds through the issuance of mortgage revenue bonds.
International Initiative Division
The URA manages the City's international initiatives, which include a number of "Sister City" agreements and business partnerships. The Authority also pursues new opportunities with selected countries.
Real Estate Department
Responsible for all acquisition and disposition of properties for the Authority it works with all other departments in assembling sites for redevelopment. It also acts as agent for the City of Pittsburgh in assembling properties for City-sponsored projects.