The capital project is currently divided into two discrete phases. Phase One ensures that all necessary infrastructure work is done only once and will provide necessary underpinnings for later improvements to what will become the “civic gathering space”. This phase will provide the improvements necessary to make the building – wonderfully positioned as a focal point of the neighborhood – usable year-round and provide the potential for earned income through rental of office space. The funding necessary for this Phase is $1,646,000. 

Phase One, when completed, will achieve the following:

•ADA accessibility for entire building and an elevator
in rear area for basement/2nd floor access)
•Fire alarm systems
•Repaired boiler
•ALL exterior site work: storm drains, sewer work, new water and gas lines, downspouts, roof, parking lot, sidewalks, outdoor café terrace
•Half of the total 130 windows restored and under protective storm frames
•Rear offices and studio spaces
• “Great Good Place” coffee shop
•Ceramics studio

Phase Two will require additional funding and will be based in part on decisions made by the community on how the “civic gathering space” should be used. Initial estimates for rebuilding this space are in the range of $250,000 - $500,000. Phasing of the capital investment in the Union Project allows for the space utilization to evolve as a “market-tested,” “community-supported” solution.

Phase Two will achieve the following:

Complete renovations to the civic gathering space for use by the community for weddings, parties, performances, exhibits, meetings, religious assembly etc., to produce additional earned revenue.

Completion of phase one will enable the Union Project to generate approximately 30% of current operating expenses through space rental. On completion of phase two, an additional 30% of expenses are expected to come from rental of the civic gathering space. The business plan budget allows for those figures. The Union Project has developed a comprehensive business plan for sustainability with the help of the Bayer Center for Nonprofit Management. After the three-year start-up period, income from the rental of offices, artist studios, gathering space and performance venue significantly offset operating costs. Lessees will participate in a co-op initiative as part of their opportunities as renters. Annual events, a membership campaign and individual support will comprise additional contributed income as needed. The planned social venture partnerships including a café and a production pottery studio will generate revenue to support themselves and the job training opportunities they provide. This will also help offset the overall operating costs of the Union Project.

1. A Catalyst: The preservation and restoration of a prominent, historic building at a pivotal location will serve as a catalyst for revitalization in a neighborhood suffering from blight and concentrated poverty.

2. Common Ground: Both volunteer renovation and reuse of the building as common ground for diverse neighbors creates and strengthens the relationships necessary for a successful city. Diverse programming targets diverse users and connects them to one another.

3. Safe Place for Kids: It will create a safe place for neighborhood kids to gather for after school activities at “Union Station”. Even before the building is open, we have provided summer arts activities for youth through our Art & Farmer’s Market.

4. Jobs for Youth: It will create job opportunities and vocational training with partners including Peabody High School, Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild and the Boys and Girls Club. Youth will work in two social enterprises: Union Station (café/gathering spot) and Journeymen Potters (production pottery).

5. Self-Sustaining: The ongoing operations of the project will be primarily self-sustaining through rental of offices, artist studios, ceramics co-op, venue/performance/gathering space and social enterprise income. 6. Local Commitment: The dedication of diverse volunteers shows a strong, local commitment to the project for the long term. Over 900 volunteers have contributed over 11,000 hours!

7. Innovative Solutions: Innovative ideas and practices have made the project feasible. Case in point: stained glass restoration classes  that saved $1 million while teaching skills.

8. Balanced Fundraising: Over $1 million has already been contributed to the startup and capital renovation from $25 dollar checks from neighbors to $350,000 grants from local foundations.

9. Responsible Planning: We have completed comprehensive planning and built board and staff capacity with the help of the Bayer Center for Nonprofit Management and the federal Faith and Community Based Initiative.

10. Developing young leaders in a city that needs them: The project is led by young innovators  who are the next generation of Pittsburgh’s social sector leaders. They are mentored by experienced nonprofit professionals and community leaders.