Housing & Building Initiatives

Purpose – STEP Housing & Building Initiatives is dedicated to the development and improvement of residential housing, in partnership with families, neighborhoods and local government.

Vision – Together with families, neighborhoods and local government, sustainable, affordable, safe and renewable energy solutions are created that result in positive social, economic and community impact.

Program Overview – As part of the STEP Pathway of Housing Options, Housing & Building Initiatives offers residential housing rehabilitation, accessibility, and energy-efficient housing improvements to residents of Lycoming & Clinton Counties.  Through community collaboration and partnerships with county and local municipal governments, and a multitude of other non-profit organizations, the program leverages local, state and federal housing resources.  Staff members engage eligible homeowners and renters in developing a plan to use identified resources for solutions that provide affordable, safe, accessible and energy-efficient housing improvements.

Housing & Building Initiatives plays an integral partnership role in housing rehabilitation and strategic and holistic community revitalization plans in both Lycoming and Clinton Counties, including the Main Street Program, Brownfields and Land Revitalization, and the PA Wilds Program.  Housing & Building Initiatives also manages and maintains 20 affordable rental units in the City of Williamsport for eligible individuals and families.

Housing & Building Initiatives utilizes a highly trained staff with demonstrated design and construction management capabilities, and extensive training and field experience in rough and finish carpentry, masonry, plumbing, HVAC and energy conservation techniques.  Housing & Building Initiatives also engages and partners with private contractors to compliment the delivery of services.

Benchmarks of Success

• Families realize an average reduction of 25% in home energy costs, as a result of the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and partnership with the local electric utility, PPL.
• Homes or rental properties realize an increase in property value as a result of rehabilitation and renovation services.
• Families obtain or maintain affordable housing, by accessing rental units owned by STEP and managed and maintained by Housing & Building Initiatives.
• Homes or rental units meet building standards of quality as a result of rehabilitation and renovation services.
• Families access affordable housing through referral to the Section 8 Housing Voucher program.