Housing & Redevelopment Assistance

 

This program has been consolidated into the Keystone Communities Program. Please apply under the Keystone Communities Program.

 

Provides state-funded grants for community revitalization and economic development activities at the local level. The program assists the community in becoming competitive for business retention, expansion and attraction.

Guidelines

Uses

Community revitalization and economic development; Development or rehabilitation of housing

Funding

No minimum or Maximum; Typical grants average between $150,000 and $200,000

Eligibility

Local Governments; Redevelopment Authorities; Housing Authorities; Non-profits on a case by case basis

Terms

Refer to Program Guidelines

Where to Apply

Customer Service Center, Single Application for Assistance

FAQs

What is the Housing and Redevelopment Assistance (HRA) Program?

This program (HRA) provides flexible funding to cities and smaller urban areas to redevelop and reuse blighted and/or vacant property, to expand housing opportunities and to promote stability of neighborhoods.

Who is eligible to apply for grants?

Eligible applicants include housing authorities, redevelopment authorities, non-profit housing corporations and units of local government. It should be noted that non-profits in the cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are not eligible to apply through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) directly for HRA funds, but rather must go through the cities themselves.

What are the eligible grant activities and amounts?

Community development grants include activities necessary to enhance the quality of life. Eligible examples include: acquisition, rehabilitation or restoration of older or underutilized buildings for reuse, demolition of blighted structure when a reuse plan has been adopted, and business site and property improvements creating "family sustaining" jobs as a loan to the business.

Housing assistance grants include support for rehabilitation of existing housing, construction of new rental or homeownership, and the rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing for resale.

Does this program help both community and economic development?

Yes, the HRA program helps with both. By redeveloping blighted and vacant properties, the neighborhood and community as a whole is improved. When community improvements like this occur, economic improvements develop because businesses become more attracted to the area, therefore creating jobs and enhancing the lives of citizens.

How should participants strategize to use the funds?

It is important to view HRA funds as a tool, and not the whole solution for redeveloping cities and other urban areas. Strategic planning is vital for success, and HRA funds should only be applied for when local governments, citizens, community- based organizations and local businesses are in full agreement on a comprehensive approach to improving their neighborhood. Partnerships with surrounding communities, as well as with members of the private sector, are encouraged to further solidify the municipality's commitment to redevelopment.

How much money has been allocated for this program?

$33 million has been allocated for the Housing and Redevelopment Assistance program for FY 08-09.

Purpose of Funding

  • Community Development
  • Infrastructure
  • Land & Building
  • Housing