About a year after it was first announced, the relocation by the Social Security Administration from New Kensington to Harrison is moving forward.
Construction is underway inside the former CVS store in Heights Plaza, just off Freeport Road.
“The move date will be confirmed as we get closer to construction completion,” said Cathy Garber, public affairs officer for the U.S. General Services Administration.
It is expected to take place in late summer.
The Social Security office, which operates at 707 Fifth Ave., has been in New Kensington for about 40 years.
The new location will provide the Social Security Administration with updated space that meets modern requirements, U.S. General Services Administration spokesman Will Powell previously said.
After months of no activity at the CVS store, construction crews recently began setting up in Heights Plaza. Franjo Construction workers lined the parking lot with orange construction barriers, and renovations appear to be taking place inside.
Representatives from PRC Commercial, the company that leases plaza space, did not immediately return calls seeking comment.
Elsewhere in the shopping center, crews have been repairing crumbling sidewalks and installed a new entrance sign. It was not clear whether more new tenants are expected.
When the Social Security office opens, people from across the region will be able to receive help on multiple fronts. They will be able to apply for a Social Security number; check earnings records; apply for benefits, Supplemental Security Income and hospital insurance protection; get extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs; enroll for medical insurance; get help applying for food stamps; and get information about individual and family rights and obligations.
Garber said an opening date will be announced in the coming months.
“This date remains dependent on the overall construction schedule, availability of materials and the physical move from the old location,” she said.
