URA to Sell Beechview Property to Casa San Jose for a Community Revitalization Project to Serve Residents

PITTSBURGH, PA (October 12, 2021) The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA) Board of Directors will vote this week on a resolution to authorize entering an option agreement for the sale of 1602-1606 Broadway Avenue in Beechview to Casa San José, a local organization that provides support and resources for Latinx immigrants and community members in Pittsburgh.  

1602-1606 Broadway Avenue, located in the Broadway Avenue business district, has stood vacant and the community has advocated for its revitalization. Casa San José intends to redevelop the property, using the top floors for their offices and the lower level for a community gathering space and programming for all ages.  

"The growing Hispanic community is so grateful for the dedication that Mayor Peduto has and continues to display to our community,” said Monica Ruiz, Executive Director of Casa San José. “He has been a champion on immigrant rights and inclusion. This building is just one additional way he has proven his commitment to our communities.”  

Casa San José's bilingual staff offer critical support to Latinx and other community residents including access to Immigrant Services and Connections (ISAC) social services, emergency response, advocacy, ESL classes, mental health programs, nutrition programs, youth organizations, activities, camps, academic support and more. Casa San José has partnered with the City on several initiatives to support the immigrant community citywide, including the disbursement of funding to residents who did not receive federal stimulus payments.  

Initial plans for the redevelopment include updating the building with an elevator, stair tower and other ADA-compliant improvements. The City of Pittsburgh has allocated $1 million of American Rescue Plan funding through the URA for the project and Casa San José expects to raise the additional funding.  

If approved, the URA would sell the property to Casa San José for $1 plus costs.