Jeannette's South Sixth Street revitalization continues

Well into its seventh year, the South Sixth Street Revitalization Project trudges on with slow, but sure progress. The project is a collaboration between the city and Westmoreland County utilizing funds from both entities with additional money from state and federal redevelopment funds.

This is the first project of its kind ever undertaken in the county, according to Westmoreland Community Action (WCA), which has oversight of the project. WCA works closely with both the city and the county planning and development offices.

Originally, completion was expected within five years, but as with most construction projects the date has become fluid.

“Completion is a moving date. It will probably take two more years, but it depends on when monies become available,” said Jack Brown, WCA project manager.

“We have a contract to break ground on three more homes at 410 (South Sixth Street), 412 and 414, sometime this month. Once we sell everything available, we will go forward and build more,” said Brown.

He explained the sale of newly built homes helps to replenish the funds to build more homes.

“Once we sell them, then we build,” said Brown.

So far, 15 single family homes have been built, with three more under construction. After the homes in the 400-block of South Sixth Street are completed, there are just five homes left to build, which will finish the project.

Originally, 25 homes were planned, but due to property lot issues, 23 homes will be built, with a developed green space that includes trees and grass located between the single family dwellings and the townhomes.

The property was purchased by Community Action during the Zion property sale.

“We are waiting for the settlement of the property to move forward with the green space,” said Tay Waltenbaugh, director of WCA. Some trees are planted near the sidewalk.

A cul-de-sac was originally planned at the end of the street, but according to Brown and Waltenbaugh, it is off the table.

“There were concerns from the local businesses (at the end of Sixth Street) that first responders would not be able to access the vicinity quickly,” said Waltenbaugh.

The homes on the 400 block of South Sixth Street are nearing completion and will be listed on the market in the near future. Information on the project is available at www.AffordableHomesWestmoreland.com.

Margie Stanislaw is a contributing writer.