Exec. Innamorato Announces New Tree of Life Redevelopment & Investment
Published on June 25, 2026
County Executive Sara Innamorato Announces New Tree of Life Redevelopment, Expanded Vacant Property Recovery Program, and Investment in New Housing
The Allegheny County Industrial Development Authority and the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County approved actions to authorize up to $18 million in financing for the Tree of Life redevelopment, add a 93rd community to the Vacant Property Recovery Program, and support 12 new residential units at 901 Wood Street
PITTSBURGH – Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato announced the Allegheny County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) and the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) voted to advance a series of commitments that will help rebuild the Tree of Life in Squirrel Hill, expand the county's Vacant Property Recovery Program to a 93rd participating community, and support the creation of 12 new homes at 901 Wood Street in Wilkinsburg.
“I’m thrilled that the county is able to take this meaningful step to helping the Tree of Life build a new campus that will be a solemn place of remembrance, and also a place for education and community,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato. "Along with that meaningful investment in the Tree of Life, Allegheny County is also making important investments in vacant property recovery and supporting new housing as part of our overall housing agenda.”
IDA and RAAC Board Meeting Highlights
Financing the New Tree of Life: Up to $18 Million in Tax-Exempt Revenue Notes
The Allegheny County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) authorized the issuance of revenue notes on behalf of T of L, Inc. in a principal amount not to exceed $18 million, helping to finance the redevelopment of the former Tree of Life campus at 5898 Wilkins Avenue in Squirrel Hill. The financing will support site preparation, selective demolition, historic preservation and restoration, building systems, security and accessibility improvements, and the construction and outfitting of approximately 25,500 square feet of renovated and newly built space.
“The Industrial Development Authority is honored to support this transformative project. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community members and leaders dedicated to bringing this vision to life, demonstrating their commitment to honoring our past while fostering a more compassionate future,” said Lauren Connelly, Director of Economic Development. “We recognize the significance of this memorial in promoting healing and unity, and we remain committed to supporting projects that create inclusive and supportive communities for all residents of Allegheny County.”
Designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind in partnership with IKM Architecture, the new Tree of Life will serve as a national institution dedicated to remembrance, education, and community. The complex will include an outdoor 10/27 Memorial honoring the 11 worshippers killed in the October 27, 2018 attack, as well as a first-of-its-kind museum focused on the history and impact of antisemitism in the United States. It will also feature educational classrooms, a social hall, and a 300-seat sanctuary and theater that will preserve the congregation's historic stained-glass windows and host both religious and cultural programming.
“We are grateful for this literal vote of support and confidence in our project and our vision of an institution rooted here in Pittsburgh with national impact,” said Michael Bernstein, chairman of The Tree of Life board of directors. “The support of our County Executive, Sara Innamorato, and Allegheny County Economic Development is critical to the success of our project and long-term sustainability of our institution. When it reopens, The Tree of Life will be a beacon of hope and a center for celebrating our shared humanity while learning about one another and forging connections across differences.”
Expanding the Vacant Property Recovery Program to a 93rd Community
The Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) approved the addition of Hampton Township as the 93rd community to participate in the county's Vacant Property Recovery Program (VPRP). VPRP returns vacant, blighted, and tax-delinquent properties to productive use by conveying them to applicants who have a clear reuse plan and the capacity to carry it out, including individuals, neighbors, community groups, local businesses, and nonprofit and private developers. Common reuses include side yards, community gardens, business expansion, and the rehabilitation of vacant homes.
Supporting New Housing at 901 Wood Street
RAAC approved a $250,000 loan through the Economic Development Fund (EDF) to 901 Wood LLC, supporting the first phase of their $7.6 million transformation of the historic Wilkinsburg Bank Building into a mixed-use development featuring 12 affordable housing units and ground-floor commercial space.
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About the Allegheny County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) The IDA provides access to tax-exempt and taxable financing that helps nonprofit organizations and businesses fund capital projects, supporting investment, job creation, and community institutions across Allegheny County. The Authority is staffed by Allegheny County Economic Development.
About the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) RAAC works in partnership with Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) to support community revitalization, business expansion, and infrastructure improvements that foster inclusive economic growth.
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