Open Space Projects
Open Space Neighborhood Advisory Panel
The Open Space Neighborhood Advisory Panel (OSNAP) is a joint effort of the Mayor’s Office, the Department of City Planning, City Real Estate, and the URA, to assist in the improvement of existing open space throughout the city of Pittsburgh. In response to a variety of issues facing the city including a much diminished population, stormwater management issues, and the benefits of high quality open space on neighborhoods, this team was assembled to assist, evaluate, and facilitate open space projects taking place on City and URA owned properties.
To date, projects reviewed have included Green Up sites, passive open space expansions through the City’s Greenways program, and community gardens and urban agriculture sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as an open space project?
Any project that converts an existing vacant or green lot to a productive green use is an open space project. Open space projects include urban agriculture, community gardens, passive green space, and other projects where the use of land contemplated is largely open.
Is there funding available for open space projects?
The URA does not have specific funding available for open space projects, although we can assist with site location. Appropriate sites can also receive technical assistance for site development through Mayor Ravenstahl’s Green Up Program.
How do I find out who owns the land that I am interested in using?
If you are interested in a specific lot, you can find out the ownership by finding the parcel number on the City’s website: gis.pittsburghpa.gov/dcp (zoom in on the map to view parcel numbers). You can then look up the parcel using the parcel number on the County’s website, which will show you the ownership: www2.county.allegheny.pa.us/realestate/Search.aspx.
If the lot is privately-owned, please contact the owner of the lot or your local community group for next steps.
If the lot is publicly owned, you should contact OSNAP. We can assist you in setting up an agreement with the appropriate agency for temporary use of the land. Generally projects must occupy the site for a minimum of one year before the land will be sold. Some lots are available for sale immediately. All City and URA owned land available for sale is listed on www.buyintheburgh.com. It is not a problem if the site you are interested in includes both City and URA owned land. OSNAP is a collaborative effort so we often work with sites that have mixed ownership.
What other public resources are available for my project?
OSNAP will assist groups or individuals with open space proposals through the process of obtaining control of the land in a streamlined way. For projects on publically owned property you will be asked to fill out a Project Submittal Checklist. This checklist will help us to understand the scope of your project and will allow you to submit important information about the project including the project budget and maintenance plan.
Who should I contact for more information?
Please contact Lena Andrews, Planning and Development Specialist
or call 412.255.6439