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Transforming Philadelphia: HUD Secretary Highlights Public-Private Partnerships in Revitalizing Struggling Communities
Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner is emphasizing the vital role of the private sector in revitalizing economically distressed areas. His recent tour of Philadelphia showcased significant development in regions that have faced neglect for decades. This investment aims to elevate both the economy and the communities within those areas.
Turner articulated the impact of the Opportunity Zones initiative, which has fostered approximately $84 billion in private investment over the past five years. He reported that around one million individuals have successfully transitioned off poverty rolls, and home values in Opportunity Zones have seen a notable rise without an accompanying increase in rents. Turner remarked to Fox News Digital about the dual purpose of the Opportunity Zones initiative, which extends beyond mere economic improvement to encompass community revitalization. He stated that families are now able to establish new foundations for successful futures.
On his recent visit to Philadelphia, Turner engaged with local community and business leaders to discuss ongoing projects and tour revitalized neighborhoods, which are designated as Opportunity Zones. These areas are specifically defined as economically distressed locales that incentivize investment and development through federal tax benefits for investors. Established during the first Trump administration via the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Opportunity Zones represent a comprehensive approach to economic growth.
The Push for Opportunity Zones 2.0
Now serving as HUD Secretary in the current Trump administration, Turner expressed his enthusiasm for what he termed Opportunity Zones 2.0. He believes this initiative will enhance the existing program and strengthen its benefits.
With his extensive experience, including his previous role as the executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during the first Trump administration, Turner is well-positioned to lead this effort. He noted, “I’m very excited about the extension, the continuation of Opportunity Zones. My estimation is that Opportunity Zones 2.0 will be even better than before. I’m looking forward to working collaboratively with lawmakers and private partners to realize this potential.”
Community Impact Through Revitalization
During his visit, Turner met with local leaders at the Philadelphia Housing Authority before touring the Grocery Outlet. This grocery store, located in the historically challenged Sharswood-Blumberg neighborhood, is part of a mixed-use development project initiated by a $30 million Choice Neighborhoods Grant from HUD in 2020. This funding attracted an impressive $517 million in additional private and public investments. The development also includes a community center, housing, and a health clinic, illustrating the holistic approach to urban improvement.
Further showcasing the success of the Opportunity Zones initiative, Turner toured The Battery, a newly completed building in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood that offers nearly 200 apartment units. This building, once a power plant constructed shortly after World War I, had been vacated for years. Its revitalization was made possible due to the area’s Opportunity Zone designation and the tax incentives geared towards preserving historic properties. Turner noted the transformation of this site as a prime example of the initiative’s success.
A Vision for Economic Growth
“I’m very excited about being at The Battery in Philadelphia, which is an exemplary Opportunity Zone project. This former factory has been repurposed into a thriving hub for both residential and commercial activities. This space, long abandoned, is now revitalized through Opportunity Zone funding, creating economic opportunities for local residents,” Turner shared during his rooftop remarks, which featured views of the historic smokestacks now transformed into private terraces.
Addressing Urban Challenges
Turner highlighted the urgency of addressing America’s pressing challenges, including rising crime rates and homelessness. He noted that these national issues have escalated, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Turner emphasized that local governments must collaborate with the private sector, church-led initiatives, and nonprofit organizations to tackle these challenges effectively.
Speaking to the alarming statistics, Turner remarked that homelessness has surged by 18 percent over the past year, with over 770,000 individuals experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2024. He stressed that while record funding flows from HUD, the homelessness crisis remains unacceptable. He insists that public-private partnerships play a crucial role in addressing this issue, stating, “We have to partner with faith-based institutions and nonprofits that do the work daily. The federal government can facilitate but cannot be the sole solution.”
Prioritizing American Citizens
Turner has also taken a strong stance regarding housing policy aimed at ensuring U.S. citizens benefit from public resources. He has asserted that only American citizens should have access to the taxpayer-funded housing programs, placing illegal immigrants on notice. His commitment to prioritizing American citizens in housing initiatives signifies a shift in focus for HUD under his leadership.
Reflecting on his priorities, Turner stated, “At HUD, we serve one out of four Americans that we should be serving, and that must change. We are making it our priority to ensure that American citizens benefit from the resources provided by hardworking American taxpayers.”
Forging Ahead with Hope
As Turner continues to engage with communities across the country, his commitment to revitalizing economically distressed areas remains evident. The emphasis on public-private partnerships and community-focused initiatives highlights a positive trajectory for urban development in Philadelphia and beyond. Turner believes that these strategies will yield substantial benefits for families and communities in need, creating avenues for economic growth and hope in areas once plagued by neglect.
The effort reflects a larger mission at HUD, which is to be a blessing to the citizens it serves by fostering economic development and community resilience through innovative partnerships. Turner’s enthusiasm for Opportunity Zones exemplifies a proactive approach to urban revitalization, positioning cities like Philadelphia for a brighter future.
