Ciresi applauds $136,250 in state funds for Pottstown blight remediation

Southeast Delegation    November 3, 2022 | 3:57 PM

HARRISBURG, Nov. 3 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, announced today that he secured $136,250 in Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits to assist Genesis Housing Corp. in its investment in revitalizing blighted properties in Pottstown.

“This $136,250 in state tax credits will help fight blight in Pottstown,” Ciresi said. “Not only will this money assist efforts to improve aesthetics and increase community supports, but it will also provide money for critical repairs to keep at-risk homeowners in their homes. This funding will improve the quality of life for area residents and keep Pottstown on the road to revitalization.”

The investment will assist Genesis Housing Corporation’s rehabilitate projects in Pottstown:

  • $80,000 to support GHC’s coordinated efforts with local organizations to address blighted properties and drive revitalization efforts to improve safety, housing and commercial development. Expected measurable outcomes will include exterior renovations (including housing rehab and façade grants), housing counseling services, improved community access to gardens and support for community improvement programs. GHC is partnering with Pottstown Community Action, Mosaic Community Land Trust and Hobart’s Run.

  • $56,250 for GHC’s proposed Pottstown Homeowner Property Rehab program, which will provide rehab grants for owner-occupied single-family homes in need of critical repairs. This will help eligible low-income homeowners, especially senior and disabled residents, maintain safe and decent housing with grants and technical assistance for urgent repairs such as new roofing, heaters and sewer line replacements.

The Neighborhood Assistance Program is a tax credit program administered by the PA Department of Economic Development to encourage businesses to invest in projects that improve distressed areas.