Learn about our mission, who we are, where we stand today & our vision for the future

Mission

WLB long term goals are to move as many abandoned properties into first time home ownership as possible in a way that creates economic mobility for current Wilkinsburg renters and prevents displacement. Our goal is affordable home-ownership, first and foremost, for current Wilkinsburg renters, and underserved communities.

The WLB is working to prevent the displacement that happens when real estate prices are artificially inflated by other actors in the economy. Renters are incredibly vulnerable to market fluctuations in a way that home-owners are not. The WLB is working to ensure that Wilkinsburg’s appreciating real estate market will benefit the people who currently live here.

Press

Wilkinsburg Land Bank to use more than $350,000 in grant funding for revitalization projects - CBS Pittsburgh (cbsnews.com)

"Sometimes you can't just build your way to a good neighborhood and a good community," said State Senator Jay Costa. "What we need to do is make certain we have a process and the investments to achieve what needs to be done with respect to rehabbing our communities and rehabbing our homes, one-by-one, so families can come back to the communities they once lived in or abandoned at one point in time."

Meet the Team

Progress Milestones

The Wilkinsburg Land Bank’s work moves step by step, as properties pass through legal, financial, and stabilization stages before they can return to productive use

A simplified view of how properties move through the Land Bank process.

  • Land Bank established and operational

  • Priority corridors identified for focused impact

  • Properties reviewed and moved into the acquisition pipeline

  • Title research and legal clearance underway

  • Vacant homes stabilized and prepared for transfer

  • Homes made available for new homeowners

Our Numbers

  • 75

    Houses moved for acquisition

    -As of Oct 1, 2025

  • 16+

    Properties with clear title

    -As of Oct 1, 2025

  • $17,950

    Average public cost per property

    -Program average since 2022

  • 300+

    Residents engaged since 2022

    (Events, meetings, and inquiries)

FAQ

It means a property has been identified, reviewed, and entered into the Land Bank’s acquisition pipeline. Properties may still require legal work, title clearance, or stabilization before they are ready for transfer.

What does “moved for acquisition” mean?

Each property is different. Some require probate resolution, lien clearance, or court timelines that can extend the process. Progress depends on legal and financial factors, not just physical condition.

How often is this information updated?

Program metrics are updated as properties move through each stage of the Land Bank process. Updates reflect verified progress rather than projected outcomes.

Why do some properties take longer than others?

Want to learn more about how properties move through the Land Bank process?

Visit our “How It Works” page.