Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds
REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS
On or about December 27, 2024, the City of Erie will submit a request to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of community development block grant (CDBG) program funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of l 974 (P.L. 93-383) (Act), as amended, to undertake four projects under its small home repair program.
This project will renovate I00I State Street in the core of downtown Erie into a community accessible, mixed-use property with hospitality, office, public meeting areas, performance spaces and associated amenities such as retail and restaurant use. By transforming the current office space into a multi-use building it will become an economic driver for the creation of over 145 full-time jobs for non-traditionally educated or trained workers. It will also create entrepreneurial opportunities for minority, women, and
immigrant owned businesses. Finally, it will aid with homelessness amelioration and prevention, blight elimination, improved street life and public safety through partnerships with local government and nonprofit entities.
The rehabilitation of the building will include new HVAC, plumbing, windows, and a basement transformation into a restaurant and bistro for hotel operations. The work will also include an upgraded elevator and stairways, fire and safety system, and roof. Cosmetic updates will be made throughout the interior and for some of the exterior which will be in line with the original design of the building.
CDBG Funding: $581,621.66. Total Project Cost (estimated): $48,500,000.
The activities proposed: are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file with the City of Erie and can be accessed on line at https://cityof.erie.pa.us.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to Debra Smith, Department of Economic and Community Development, 626 State Street, Room 404, Erie, PA 1650 I, or by email to dsmith@erie.pa.us. All comments received by December 26, 2024, will be considered by the City prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
The City certifies to HUD that Joseph V. Schember, Certifying Officer, in his capacity as Mayor of the City of Erie, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City to use Program funds.
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
HUD wiII accept objections to its release of fund and the City’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the of the City; (b) the City has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process
have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to the HUD Pittsburgh Field Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD), Attn: Jill Moyer, CPD Director, by mail 1000 Liberty Avenue, Suite I 000, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or by email to PGHCPDObjections@hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.
Joseph V. Schember, Mayor