Transformation Of A Ghost Town
Hello everyone. I suspect that there are many land developers that view this web site often, so I wanted to post this idea and see what kind of responses I get. I live in Pennsylavania nest to a town where an economically thriving steel mill called J&L used to be. When they shut down the plant, the town (Aliquippa) began to slowly deteriorate. A once prosperous safe family town has now become a run down drug infested ghost town.
While I understand that the rebuilding of an entire town is a huge project, what would the first steps be? Is anyone aware of any government funded programs that one can apply for, being a non government entity, to revamp an entire area? I know that this should fall into the hands of the city, but for some unknown reason, the city officials don't seem to concern themselves with this town, and in turn, the entire area around Aliquippa has depreciated in value and become slumlike. I hate to see this happen. Any brilliant ideas anyone?
Thanks
JeanMarie
That's Beaver County, isn't it? If you haven't done so already, do some research at the next level up--eg, county planning commission, regional planning commission. You might get some insight into what the future plans are for that area (if any), as well as census and related data. As for grants, don't know. There may be IDC-like entities offering development loans for commercial and other non-residential development.
Ok. I see your point here. To get very educated. I will take a look at these web sites that you have directed me to. Thanks to both of you who responded! See, I have a heart for this town, and I absolutely hate seeing it fold like it has. I know that it sounds like a long shot, and too big of a project, but I know that anything can be done. By the way, yes, that IS Beaver County. Are you familiar with the area?
JeanMarie
JeanMarie,
No, haven't been to the western part of PA. I'm in the eastern end.
Nancy
Glad I found your question Jean Marie , and your answer CK.
My soon to be ex has a lot of family in Aliquippa. You definately have a big plan.
I have a similiar idea for an area in a Detroit distressed housing area. Not quite so large, but it does involve creating a sub division out of boarded up and condemned properties.
I have found some information sources on how to structure grants proposals for this type of project at:
www.enterprisefoundation.org
Hope they are helpful to you.
Does anyone have a good accounting program they could recommend for real estate in particular.
And if anyone has information about the best way to acquire properties for a large project. Is it best to try to lock up everything at once or gradually pick up the properties as circumstances become right.
I know there are grant programs and tax incentives to accomplish this type of program, but it would be helpful to have some input from someone who has tackled this kind of project in the past.
I know there are grants and tax incentives for this type of project. But has anyone here done this before? And what do you think of the idea?