Clean Tech Clusters and Regional Blight Assessment Intern

Steel Rivers Council of Governments & Tri-COG Land Bank

Project Contact & Location 

An Lewis, Executive Director 

1705 Maple Street, Homestead PA 

About Steel Rivers Council of Governments & Tri-COG Land Bank: Located in Allegheny County, the Steel Rivers Council of Governments (SRCOG) is a nonprofit organization that supports municipalities in the Mon Valley region of Allegheny County. SRCOG offers numerous services, including the Tri-COG Land Bank. The primary goals of the land bank are to mitigate blight, improve neighborhoods, and stimulate economic growth.

Project Title: Clean Tech Clusters and Regional Blight Assessment Intern

Project Description: This project involves supporting staff in developing a clean‑tech industry cluster initiative, assisting with blighted‑property field studies, participating in the organization’s property‑lifecycle processes, and contributing to various related tasks while gaining hands‑on experience with a Councils of Government and land bank.

Anticipated Assignments / Key local government experiences: The intern will conduct research on clean tech industry clusters, participate in meetings, prepare materials for advisory boards, while also assisting with a blighted property survey across several communities. The intern will gain hands‑on experience with the Tri COG Landbank with the property lifecycle by helping secure newly acquired properties, preparing them for sale, and reviewing purchaser applications for compliance with land bank policies. 

This role provides a comprehensive introduction to community development, organizational governance, and the operations of quasi‑government entities such as land banks and councils of governments. Working closely with member municipalities, the intern will engage in both administrative tasks and community‑based fieldwork, developing skills in project management, compliance, and organizational operations. Throughout the summer, the intern will deepen their understanding of public service, contribute to meaningful projects, and be welcomed as a valued member of the team.

Placement Site attributes and benefits to the community: The intern will gain firsthand experience working with two interconnected organizations and member municipalities, combining administrative responsibilities with community‑based fieldwork. This role builds practical skills, deepens understanding of public service, and allows the intern to contribute meaningfully to projects while being welcomed as a valued member of the team for the summer.

Opportunities for engagement with elected officials & community: The intern will prepare for and participate in public meetings, stakeholder discussions, internal staff meetings, and departmental job‑shadowing as part of their engagement experience.

Public Transportation Availability: Yes, the 61C stops on 8th Avenue which is a 10 block walk to the COG office.