When part of a city becomes blighted, who takes care of it? This question was answered several decades ago when federal, state and city governments tasked existing housing authorities with the mission of redevelopment.

Today, when Portsmouth officials identify an area of concern, Authority and city staff work with the community to establish a redevelopment plan. In an urban city like Portsmouth, where undeveloped land is scarce, the re-use of property is given careful consideration and joint public hearings are held before plans are finalized and adopted by City Council.

Since 1995, the Authority has redeveloped 460 acres through projects assessed at more than $297 million, raising the City’s tax revenues on those sites by 277%.

Improving quality of life.

With an extremely active redevelopment effort, Portsmouth has become, in many ways, a model for successful urban revitalization. Improvements – both large and small, dramatic and subtle – don’t just affect the physical environment. They also improve quality of life for Portsmouth citizens and even affect the City’s image across the region. Success often involves long periods of seeking input and ideas, tough decisions, sacrifice and hard work. The staff at the Authority strives to make our City a better place.

Saving neighborhoods.

While it may not be apparent on a day-to-day basis, neighborhoods are constantly changing. Some thrive year after year, while others decline. The reasons are often complex, and every area has its own unique character and history to consider. At the Authority, we’re committed to providing the tools and leadership necessary to give our neighborhoods every advantage and opportunity to remain or become the kind of places our residents can be proud of.

Expanding housing options.

The Authority makes available Rehabilitation Loans and can offer our Building Quality Standards to owners. We work closely with the City to determine what areas to concentrate on. Successes in neighborhoods as diverse as Parkview and Westbury show how respect for the historical quality of our City can combine with innovative approaches to fill the diverse housing needs in Portsmouth.