Land Recycling & Pittsburgh Land Bank Strategy
Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA)
The City of Pittsburgh faced challenges managing vacant and abandoned property due to regulatory processes and outdated systems, hindering its development plans.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA) hired Fourth Economy to reform the land recycling program and later develop the Pittsburgh Land Bank’s (PLB) initial strategic plan.
Our Approach
Extensive interviews and process mapping were conducted to understand how agencies work together on property acquisition. Recommendations were made to address process, policy, and partnership issues. An inventory of vacant and tax-delinquent properties was created, combined with cost and revenue models. A website and public meetings gathered feedback on PLB’s governing policies. This led to the creation of PLB’s inaugural strategic plan.
THE RESULTS
Fourth Economy created the Pittsburgh Land Recycling Handbook, analyzing distressed land, its impacts, and management processes, including an operational plan.
After overcoming legislative and COVID-19-related delays, PLB has reported significant progress driven by the 2018 Strategic Plan, including:
The TriParty Cooperation Agreement for property transfers between the City, URA, and PLB.
Implementation of Noncompetitive Disposition Processes for community-benefiting transactions.
PLB has seen a significant increase in property transactions in 2023 and 2024.
Location
Pittsburgh, PA