Action Housing Project Buys the John P. Robin Civic Building

Written by Allison Frazer

An empty building that predates World War l will be transformed into affordable housing and office space with the help of ACTION-Housing, a non-profit organization. 

This month, the John P. Robin Civic Building at 200 Ross St. sold for $4 million to ACTION-Housing. The organization plans to convert 104,920 sq. ft. into 68 affordable housing units ranging from three bedroom to one bedroom apartments. These units are intended for people making 50% to 80% of the area median income. 

The Robin Civic Building previously housed government agencies, including the Urban Redevelopment Authority [URA] since 1952. Originally built in 1908, the building housed Jones & Laughlin Steel, which drove a large portion of Pittsburgh’s economy. 

The conditions of the purchase require that ACTION-Housing maintain the historic features of the building, including the red brick and sandstone trim, which remain protected since its appearance on the National Register of Historical Buildings from 2021. This protection qualifies the building for a historic tax credit.

ACTION-Housing estimates the redevelopment will cost more than $55 million. These efforts will be funded through a mix of private and public sources, with some renovation cost concerns relieved by low-income housing tax credits and the historic tax credit the building qualifies for.

Downtown has experienced fluctuations in long-term residents through recent years due to high prices, driving businesses out and leaving vacant buildings. Providing low-income housing can aid Downtown in becoming a vibrant, bustling city that residents can enjoy.