For-Sale Development Program

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) of Pittsburgh has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) under the For-Sale Development Program (FSDP) seeking developers—either non-profit entities or for-profit developers collaborating with non-profits—to undertake substantial rehabilitation or new construction of affordable for-sale housing within the City of Pittsburgh. The program offers low-interest construction financing and grants funded by HUD and local sources, aiming to increase affordable homeownership and reduce substandard housing stock. Eligible projects must comply with affordability requirements, including deed restrictions and affordability periods, and must meet federal and state regulations such as the Davis-Bacon Act and lead-based paint standards. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis until August 31, 2031, with a non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting held to clarify submission procedures and program guidelines. Applicants must submit detailed narratives, financial statements, project plans, MWBE (Minority and Women Business Enterprise) participation narratives, and supporting documentation in structured digital formats, including a mandatory Excel workbook for financial and project data. The evaluation process emphasizes multiple qualitative factors including project readiness, developer capacity, cost reasonableness, funding leverage, non-profit participation, affordability levels, energy efficiency, and fair housing marketing plans, with URA staff conducting a holistic review to assess overall project merit rather than focusing solely on cost. The program mandates MWBE goals of 18% Minority Business Enterprise and 7% Women Business Enterprise for projects exceeding $250,000, requiring formal narratives and compliance plans. Contract administration is conducted by URA with inspection and acceptance occurring on-site, contingent on submission of a Certificate of Completion and lien waivers. While specific contract clauses, federal acquisition regulations, and packaging or preservation requirements are not outlined, the solicitation is governed by URA administrative protocols and applicable federal housing and construction standards, with a performance period typically requiring project commencement within 120 days of funding commitment and loan terms extending up to 18 months with possible extensions.