Ten Pennsylvania Communities Embark on Community Revitalization Journey with Blueprint Communities® Program
Ten Pennsylvania Communities Embark on Community Revitalization Journey with Blueprint Communities® Program
HARRISBURG, April 29, 2024 marks the commencement of an exciting revitalization journey for ten Pennsylvania communities as they are officially welcomed into the prestigious Blueprint Communities® program. The kickoff ceremony, held in the Capitol Rotunda, was attended by over 150 individuals, including public officials, community leaders, and representatives from financial institutions.
Blueprint Communities, a signature program of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank), aims to empower communities through place-based revitalization initiatives. This year, the program is administered by Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC), a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing the state’s core communities.
“We are thrilled to partner with FHLBank Pittsburgh in welcoming these ten communities into the Blueprint Communities initiative,” stated Julie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of Pennsylvania Downtown Center. “This program underscores our commitment to empowering communities and fostering sustainable revitalization efforts across the Commonwealth.”
During the kickoff event, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, a former Blueprint Communities team member, shared his insights and experiences with the 2024 cohort. “Investing in our communities and revitalizing our neighborhoods is a smart economic development strategy,” remarked Lt. Gov. Davis. “I commend the dedication of local leaders participating in the Blueprint Communities program and look forward to witnessing their impactful contributions.”
The ceremony featured engaging discussions led by community development stakeholders, including Luke Bernstein, President and CEO of The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, Rick Siger, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, and our own Julie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Downtown Center. Keynote addresses emphasized the importance of collaboration and community-led revitalization efforts in driving sustainable economic growth.
As part of the kickoff activities, participants had the opportunity to join walking tours. One of the tours focused on active transportation, led by Sam Pearson, PDC’s Healthy Communities Program Manager. Her walking tour highlighted the vital role of walkability and accessibility or lack there of when active transportation is not accessible and safe for all.
The Blueprint Communities initiative represents a collaborative effort between local government leaders, organizational stakeholders, volunteers, and representatives from FHLBank member institutions. Through strategic planning and coordinated investments, participating communities will work towards comprehensive revitalization strategies that enhance quality of life and promote economic prosperity.
About FHLBank Pittsburgh
FHLBank Pittsburgh provides reliable funding and liquidity to its member financial institutions in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. As a key partner in community lending, housing, and economic development, FHLBank Pittsburgh has been an integral part of the financial system since 1932. Learn more at www.fhlb-pgh.com and read their press release here.
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