A larger vision
The Hill House has always made possible transformative change for individuals. But because one’s environment can limit personal change, the Hill House has also reached out to heal and transform its urban landscape. This work has spawned new growth and potential for all who share a stake in the Hill.
Working through Hill House Economic Development Corporation, the Hill House has evolved to become a leader in the revival of its historic neighborhood. Through this work, the Hill House has revealed how the entrepreneurial spirit that defined the Hill in its heyday is still alive today.
Agent of change
In 1970, the Hill House became one of the first agencies to tackle housing redevelopment on the Hill. While attractive market-rate housing is on a steady rise, housing alone isn’t enough to support a productive, healthy community. To achieve broader revitalization, the Hill House expanded its focus in 2005 to include commercial and economic development. By attracting new businesses and creating quality office and retail space, the Hill House has opened another chapter of renewal.
Building on the lessons of the past, the Hill House represents a national model for community-centered urban renewal, including a leadership role in collaborating with residents and organizations on the region’s first Community Benefits Agreement (CBA).
Visible success
In three short years under CEO Evan Frazier, the Hill House Economic Development Corporation has laid a strong foundation for growth in the Hill District. The organization has:
Sparked development on the Hill’s main thoroughfare with a new Family Dollar store. The Hill House secured private funding to ensure that the storefront met community design standards, preserving the neighborhood’s traditional character.
Enhanced neighborhood viability by making strides on a full-service grocery store for the Hill. The Hill House together with a local grocer are advancing this important economic anchor for the neighborhood.
Created new incentives for startups through a $237,000 state grant to create a Keystone Innovation Zone comprising the Hill District and other strategic areas. Working with local universities and other regional partners, the Hill House is using the grant to attract research funds and startup businesses.
Established a business magnet with the acquisition of Hope Square, a 30,000-square-foot office and retail building. Hope Square offers Hill-based businesses state-of-the-art space in a prime location.
Through hard work and the continued support of our donors, the Hill House will make possible a wider range of long-term strategic initiatives through a Social Venture Fund. Not only will these initiatives transform the Hill, they will yield revenue that helps sustain Hill House programs and services.
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- The Hill House is known for an inclusive, community-centered approach to economic development.
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- The Hill House Economic Development Corporation led the effort to bring the Family Dollar Store to the Hill District, igniting a spark for commercial development in the neigborhood.
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- Hope Square showed that commercial development in the Hill District is viable—and that the Hill House Economic Development Corporation plays a vital role.
