Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a redevelopment financing tool that allows the Johnstown Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to reinvest a portion of future growth in property tax and sales tax revenue generated within the DDA boundary back into downtown. TIF is designed to support public improvements and infrastructure that help catalyze private investment and long-term downtown revitalization. It is not a new tax and does not increase existing property tax rates.
How TIF Works
Captures future growth, not current taxes
TIF captures the increase in property and sales tax revenue that comes as property values and sales rise over time
Reinvested locally in downtown
Funds are directed back into the DDA boundary to support the goals outlined in the Plan of Development
Creates a reinvestment cycle
Early improvements help attract new investment, which generates additional revenue for future projects.
What TIF Can Fund
Infrastructure improvements
Streets, sidewalks, utilities, and other foundational upgrades.
Public spaces & placemaking
Plazas, streetscapes, landscaping, and community gathering areas.
Catalyst projects
Key redevelopment sites that encourage additional private investment.
Access & connectivity
Parking, pedestrian improvements, and multimodal connections.
Why TIF Matters
Attracts private investment
Improves conditions that make downtown more attractive for development.
Accelerates downtown improvements
Enables projects that would otherwise take years to fund through traditional sources.
Supports long-term growth
Ensures that increased downtown value is reinvested back into downtown.
Strengthens community vibrancy
Helps create a more active, connected, and thriving downtown experience.