Pittsburgh-based Module Design Inc. plans to expand its modular housing manufacturing operations in Allegheny County and will invest more than $2.4 million in the project, with Pennsylvania providing some $762,000 in financial support.
“With support from the commonwealth, we’re expanding our capacity to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient housing in a region where housing is in short supply,” said Brian Gaudio, co-founder and CEO of Module Design. “Building homes in our Last Mile Facility in Allegheny County creates family sustaining jobs and on-ramps into the construction trades.”
Module Design received a funding proposal from the state Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) that includes a $400,000 Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority loan, a $290,000 Pennsylvania First grant, and a $72,000 WEDnetPA grant to train its workers, according to the governor’s office.
“We are committed to supporting companies like Module [that] are creating jobs and bringing high-quality, eco-friendly housing options to those who need it the most,” said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. “We will remain laser-focused on making investments like these to improve the lives of people in Allegheny County and across our commonwealth.”
The company said it will use the commonwealth’s investment to make improvements to existing space and purchase new equipment that will increase its efficiency and capacity.
Currently, Module Design leases 22,000-square-feet of industrial space at 730 Superior Street in Carnegie borough to manufacture modular homes.
Module, which plans to create 58 jobs and retain eight existing positions for this project, uses a vertically integrated approach that includes in-house design, manufacturing, and construction capabilities.
The company’s homes are designed to the Pennsylvania Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Ready Home standard, meaning lower utility bills, healthier living environments, and long-term savings for residents.
“Sustainable housing solutions are more important than ever,” said Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive. “Module is investing in eco-friendly, affordable homes and establishing robust workforce development programs, which is an investment in Allegheny County’s future.”
The project was coordinated by Gov. Josh Shapiro’s BusinessPA team, a group of economic development professionals that provide businesses with tailored guidance, strategic partnerships, and financial resources.
“Pennsylvania is competing again — and we’re winning new investment, growing our economy, and creating jobs for people across our commonwealth,” Shapiro said July 11. “My administration is committed to supporting strategic investments like this one that strengthen our communities, attract cutting-edge companies, and position Pennsylvania as a national leader in economic growth.”