There may be less of an opportunity to build affordable housing.

As the city faces a $30 million budget deficit, affordable housing may be one area that takes a hit. 

The Urban Redevelopment Authority’s proposed spending of $10 million on the Housing Opportunity Fund (HOF) in 2026 may be one of the items on the city’s chopping block. 

The HOF supports the development and preservation of affordable and accessible housing in Pittsburgh. The proposed allocation would include $1 million in administrative expenses, or 10% of the budget. It splits the remainder according to area median income (AMI) categories: $4.5 million for people who earn 30% AMI, or $30,200 for a family of four; $2.25 million for 50% AMI, or $50,650 for a family of four; and $2.25 million for those at 80% of AMI, or $80,850.

The HOF’s programs include securing loans for constructing and preserving affordable rental units, addressing unsafe and unhealthy conditions for homeowners and short-term rental assistance. During a Dec. 3 committee meeting, Council Member Deb Gross of Highland Park estimated that a little over half of city residents live in rental units and approximately 5% of renters experienced eviction filings in 2024.

Though council members were strongly supportive of the program, they also have to cut $30 million from the mayor’s proposed 2026 budget.

“There’s an absolute return on our investment,” said Council President R. Daniel Lavelle of the Upper Hill District. “This investment actually brings tax dollars into our coffers, as opposed to the other way around, where much of the majority of our spending does not.” 

Council agreed to hold the bill for two weeks so members could have a better understanding of the city’s complete 2026 budget.