The city Urban Redevelopment Authority board approved agreements today that will clear the way for two major additions to the 123-acre SouthSide Works complex -- the Dick Corp. headquarters and a new 40-unit condominium building on the Monongahela River.

Board members approved the sale of 3.2 acres at Hot Metal and Sidney streets for $1.1 million for the construction of a five-story office building that will house the Dick Corp. headquarters, now based in Jefferson Hills, and other tenants. Surety Pittsburgh L.P. originally had planned to build an international center for offices, condominiums, shops and a business club at the site. However, after extensive study, those plans were deemed to be "out of sync with the market place," according to the URA, clearing the way for the office building.

In a separate action, the board approved the sale of a small riverfront parcel to developer Ralph Falbo for $237,300 for the construction of a four-story condo building with units priced from $225,000 to $375,000. Mr. Falbo is hoping the price range will attract young professionals. He hopes to get started on the project by next spring. UPMC originally had an option on the land.

Board members also approved a loan of up to $390,000 as part of an effort to convert the former Otto Milk Building on Smallman Street between 24th and 25th streets in the Strip District into 60 condominiums priced as low as $150,000. Solara Venture IV LLC hopes to begin construction before the end of the year.

First Published: July 12, 2007, 8:45 p.m.