Pittsburgh’s Zoning Plans Delayed
The Gainey Administration’s proposed transit-oriented development (TOD) rezoning initiative, focused on areas near Herron Station, South Hills Junction, and Sheraden Station, has been postponed until January 2025 following significant community feedback. The plan, which aims to increase density near public transit hubs, faced criticism from residents concerned about issues such as building heights and landslide risks in the hillside areas. In response the Pittsburgh Planning Commission voted to delay the changes to allow for more community engagement and revisions.
Other zoning proposals from the administration, including citywide inclusionary zoning (IZ) were also tabled until the next year. Based on recommendations from the Housing Needs Assessment, the citywide IZ proposal would require that 10% of new housing developments with 20 or more units to be designated as affordable for households earning 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Meanwhile, Councilman Bob Charland introduced his own IZ proposal, which takes a tiered approach to affordability. This plan would adjust affordability requirements based on market demand in neighborhoods, include higher AMI thresholds (99% AMI after a Council amendment or $1880/month for a one-bedroom apartment), and provide public subsidies from the Urban Redevelopment and Housing Authority to help offset developers’ costs. PCRG, alongside other housing advocates, expressed concerns over Charland’s legislation. Ultimately, Council approved sending Charland’s bill to City Planning for review (6-3 vote) and Planning Commissioners will look at both the Mayors and Charland’s bill simultaneously.
With both proposals delayed until later this month or early February (date TBD), there is an opportunity for further public dialogue and policy refinement. As these discussions continue, PCRG remains committed to advocating for policies that reflect community needs and ensure housing affordability for all Pittsburgh residents. Stay tuned for more updates!
Congress Passes Continuing Resolution, Avoiding Federal Government Shutdown
In a critical move to ensure the continuity of government operations, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) that funds the federal government through March 2025. This resolution, signed into law by President Biden, averted a potential shutdown that threatened to disrupt essential services and programs nationwide.
The CR provides temporary funding at current levels, giving lawmakers additional time to negotiate and finalize a full-year budget. While the CR is not a permanent solution, the measure offers stability to federal agencies, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of programs that millions of Americans rely on, including housing, education, transportation and healthcare services.
For communities and organizations dependent on federal funding, the passage of this CR offers a reprieve from uncertainty. However, it also underscores the need for sustained advocacy to ensure that future appropriations reflect the priorities of underserved communities and critical programs.
As we head into next year — under a Trump Administration and new Congress — we remain committed to monitoring federal budget developments and advocating for policies that promote equitable investment in communities.
Honoring the Legacy of President Jimmy Carter
It is with deep respect that we acknowledge the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a leader whose life exemplified service, compassion and commitment to justice. During his presidency, Carter championed policies that continue to shape equitable opportunities for communities across the country. In 1977, he signed the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) into law, addressing discriminatory lending practices and ensuring financial institutions met the credit needs of underserved neighborhoods — the basis of our work here at PCRG.
President Carter’s dedication to community development extended well beyond his time in office. Through his work with Habitat for Humanity, he brought global attention to the importance of affordable, quality housing. His hands-on efforts in building homes and inspiring others to join the mission have left a lasting mark on countless families worldwide.