Casa San Jose looks to buy Beechview property from Pittsburgh's URA

Pittsburgh’s Urban Redevelopment Authority is poised to sell a vacant Beechview property to Casa San Jose, which plans to revitalize the site to use as office space and a community gathering spot.

The URA’s Board of Directors is expected to vote this week to enter into an option agreement to sell the building at 1602-1606 Broadway Ave. to Casa San Jose, a nonprofit offering support and resources for Latino immigrants and Pittsburgh’s Latino community.

If approved, the URA plans to sell the property to Casa San Jose for $1, plus costs.

Located in the Broadway Avenue business district, the property has been vacant, though officials said the community has advocated for its revitalization. Casa San Jose said it would revitalize the property, using the top floors for office space and transforming the lower level to a community gathering space where it could offer programming for people of all ages.

The City of Pittsburgh has allocated $1 million of its American Rescue Plan funding through the URA for the project. Casa San Jose plans to raise additional money.

“(Peduto) has been a champion on immigrant rights and inclusion. This building is just one additional way he has proven his commitment to our communities,” said Monica Ruiz, Casa San Jose’s executive director.

Casa San Jose, an organization that boasts a bilingual staff, offers support including access to Immigrant Services and Connections social services, emergency response, advocacy, English as a Second Language classes, mental health programs, nutrition programs, youth organizations, activities, camps and academic support.

The organization has partnered with the city on several initiatives aimed at supporting Pittsburgh’s immigrant community, including disbursing funds to residents who did not receive federal stimulus payments.

Initial plans for the redevelopment include updating the building with an elevator, stair tower and other ADA-compliant improvements.