16851_Authority_Aug_2023

municipalauthorities.org | 7 There are many municipal and county-wide redevelopment authorities throughout Pennsylvania, but what exactly do they do? Generally speaking, a redevelopment authority (RA) is a quasi-public agency that spurs community and economic development. These developments range from sidewalk and street improvements, stormwater and sewer projects, demolitions, brownfields assessment and clean-up, to purchasing real estate for commercial or residential use, and in many cases being the liaison between all of the partners involved. Redevelopment Authority Funding Redevelopment authorities have multiple sources of funding, but these are not typically user-based. Although an RA serves and assists their residents and businesses directly, the projects and programs are being funded by federal, state and local grants and foundations, and in some cases monthly rent from commercial or residential units. Community Devel- opment Block Grants (CDBG) are a large source of funding for the majority of RAs throughout Pennsylvania, and it is with these grants that we are required to know the needs of the communities where we are located. At least 70% of CDBG funds need to benefit low-income people through either a community-wide project or direct benefit to local residents. Eligible Projects Eligible projects include acquisition of real property, relocation and demolition, rehabilitation of residential and non-res- idential structures, construction of public facilities such as sidewalk and street improvements and upgrading water and sewer lines, job creation/retention activities, and activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy re- sources. CDBG funds also allow for a project to free up monies in design, engineering and inspections costs that can then be used for construction costs. These eligible projects and expenses are why you should have your local RA on speed dial! The RA will know what com- munities are income eligible and the steps to take if they are not, and they can coordinate the public hearings that are necessary to identify the project and submit for CDBG funding. Vital Partnerships Redevelopment authorities have to partner with authorities, local municipalities, and other partners because the pro- jects and programs they are funding are not specifically owned or controlled by the RA. These partnerships allow for leveraging of precious funding, ease the burden of bidding since in most cases the RA is required to bid the project due to their funding restrictions, and provide for a transparent project due to funding documentation requirements for audits and monitoring. If you don’t already know who works for your local redevelopment authority and how you can partner with them - whether it is installing or upgrading water or sewer lines, or streamlining construction efforts to maximize finances, time, resources, and efficiencies - I recommend a quick search on who they are and follow-up with a call or email to start the conversation on priority projects and leveraging dollars. S By Renée K. Daly, Executive Director, Redevelopment Authority of Cambria County What is a Redevelopment Authority?