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Central Oakland Planning Study
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The Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh is an educational and employment center for the region. The Central Oakland portion is typified by larger, older homes converted into student housing. Recent trends suggest that the market is shifting, and that graduate students, young professionals, and immigrants may begin moving into the neighborhood.
Oakland Planning & Development Corporation, a non-profit organization founded in order to improve all of Oakland, was looking to support this market shift. However, the current state of many blocks in Central Oakland is of such poor character that it is difficult to envision substantial private investment. The intention was to encourage appropriate improvements to buildings, ones that will significantly enhance their architectural character in order to improve the public image of the community. The twin models are historic districts, which have been shown to significantly enhance property values, and Main Street programs, which work to strengthen neighborhood shopping districts partly through façade improvements.
Hanson Design Group, Ltd. was contracted through the Community Design Center of Pittsburgh to perform a study of existing conditions in the Target Area, analyze architectural patterns, and then outline an incentive program for property owners. The Program was designed to provide matching funds for architecturally-appropriate façade improvements for buildings that were constructed as single- or dual-family dwellings. Included in the program are guidelines for improvements as well as resources both informational and practical.
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Owner
Oakland Planning & Development Corporation
Budget
N/A
Status
Completed March 2005
Location
Central Oakland Neighborhood, City of Pittsburgh
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