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Avenue of the States Downtown Chester -
Riverfront Ramble An aerial view -
Wellington Wellington Hills -
Widener University Chester's metropolitan university
CEDA General Description
In 1995, the Chester Economic Development Authority (CEDA) was created by the City of Chester to serve as the administrative agent for the City’s economic, housing, and community development programs and activities. In this capacity, the Authority is engaged in an ongoing effort to promote business growth, attract new investment, and develop Chester as a safe, livable, sustainable community.
Through a Cooperation Agreement with the City, the Authority manages several federal programs including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, HOME Investments Partnership (HOME) program and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program. Decisions on the use of these funds are made by City Council with the Authority handling the program and/or project management. Details on the actual programs and activities carried out with these funds are provided in the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) submitted to HUD on an annual basis.
In addition, CEDA assists the City in the application for and administration of project specific funding requests to federal agencies and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
CEDA Board Members
| Darrell Jones - Chairperson |
| Francis Whittington - Vice Chairperson |
| Rasheedah Myers-Lee - Secretary |
| Desmond Irving - Treasurer |
| James Harper, Jr. |
| Nasir Leach |
| Bonita Taylor |
CEDA Staff
| Main Number - Information | 610-447-7850 | |
| Lisa Gaffney | Executive Director | 610-447-7861 |
| Jo Ann Ruark | Director of Community Development | 610-447-7854 |
| Kenneth J. Di Pietro | Financial Controller | 610-447-7855 |
CRA General Description
The Chester Redevelopment Authority was established in 2000 under the Pennsylvania State Redevelopment Law. CRA works with CEDA and the City in the administration of redevelopment activities, including but not limited to, the acquisition of real estate for the assemblage of developable sites, negotiation of redeveloper agreements, and disposition of real estate for new developments. CRA also has the power of eminent domain. CEDA staff provide administrative services to CRA through the terms of a Management Agreement.
CRA Board Members
| John Neal - Chairperson |
| Sam Williams - Treasurer |
| Eugene Alliston |
| Janell Brown |
| Rev. Dr. William "Rocky" Brown |
| James Turner |
HUD Community Assessment
Each year HUD issues a letter assessing the City of Chester's overall progress in managing federal funds related to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 and the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990. CLICK HERE TO REVIEW THE JULY 1, 2022 THROUGH JUN 30, 2023 REPORT
Home Buyers Assistance Program
CEDA funds and administers the Homebuyer Assistance Program that provides downpayment and closing cost assistance for low income, first time homebuyers at or below 80% of median income. Since the program’s inception in 1987, 287 families have purchased homes through the program. In addition to administering this program, CEDA funds both non-profit and for profit organizations involved in housing rehabilitation and new construction projects.
Housing Equality Center
Small Business Loan Program
CEDA also provides assistance to small businesses through its small business low interest loan program. Small businesses are referred to partner agencies such as the Small Business Development Center Widener University and Entrepreneur Works. The City has adopted the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance Act (LERTA), to encourage the revitalization of deteriorated properties in portions of the City. The program provides tax incentives for new construction of industrial, and residential commercial properties in the form of a ten year graduated real estate tax abatement.
