Sustainable Housing Program Application Packet
Overview
The Blair County Affordable Housing Trust Fund is accepting applications for its Sustainable Housing Program. The program aims to create affordable housing opportunities for individuals and families with gross household incomes below 80% of the Area Median Income.
Funding Details
- Total Available Funds: $50,000. 00
- Award Structure: One (1) project will be awarded a maximum of $50,000.
- Eligible Recipients: Housing developers, contractors, or housing organizations (profit or nonprofit).
Eligibility and Use of Funds
Projects must serve eligible individuals with incomes below 80% of the Area Median Income. Eligible uses include:
- Construction of new rental and owner-occupied housing.
- Acquisition and rehabilitation of housing units for resale or rent.
- Land acquisition (projects must be completed within a two-year timeframe).
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a written request to the Blair County Department of Social Services. The application must include:
- Applicant Information: Name, address, contact details, and experience.
- Project Need: Description of the population served and number of households.
- Project Narrative: Scope, location map, partners, and consistency with local codes.
- Budget & Funding: Detailed cost breakdown and leverage of other funding sources.
- Timeline: Ability to complete the project within two years of award notice.
- Site Control: Documentation for development projects.
- Affordability: Mechanism to sustain affordability.
- Consistency: How the project meets community housing needs.
- Certification Letter: Signed by a principal or executive officer.
Review Criteria
Applications are scored out of 100 points based on:
- Completeness of the Written Request (30 Points)
- Relevant experience and qualifications (15 Points)
- Project outcomes, including proximity to amenities like grocery stores and public transportation (15 Points)
- Funding leverage amount (15 Points)
- Capacity to complete the project (15 Points)
- Partnerships and stakeholder engagement (10 Points)
Key Dates and Submission
- Program Open: Thursday, August 3, 2026
- Deadline: Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 4:00 p. m.
- Submission Address: Blair County Dept. of Social Services Attn: AHTF Sustainable Housing Program 423 Allegheny Street, Suite 441B Hollidaysburg, PA 16648
Additional Priorities
The program emphasizes "Priority #4," which encourages locating affordable housing near active and passive recreation facilities, such as parks, greenways, and athletic fields. Planning efforts should also support local services like grocery stores, pharmacies, libraries, and restaurants.