Allegheny House Dems support Shapiro’s plan for Pittsburgh
$124.7 million secured, hundreds of millions more expected for downtown housing, community revitalization
Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney October 25, 2024 | 11:13 AM
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 25 – Members of the Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation are celebrating a new strategic plan for downtown revitalization announced today by Gov. Josh Shapiro and state Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger.
Shapiro’s 10-year-plan calling for $600 million centers on developing nearly 1,000 new housing units, enhancing small business support programs, improving Point State Park and Market Square, and expanding social services to increase public safety.
According to Shapiro, more than $124 million has already been committed toward the plan with $62.6 million from the state, $22.1 million from the city, and more than $40 million from the private sector and regional foundations. This investment has spurred hundreds of millions more in private investment to generate billions in economic activity in the city.
“This investment in Pittsburgh will allow us to reimagine the downtown experience, where everyone can enjoy all it will have to offer. These funds will help position the downtown community as a place that attracts more residents, businesses, and those looking for social and recreational activity for years to come,” state Rep. Aerion A. Abney said. “Thank you to Governor Shapiro and the DCED for their continued collaboration in Pittsburgh’s posterity.”
“I applaud Governor Shapiro's commitment to southwestern Pennsylvania and Allegheny County with this historic investment,” state Rep. Nick Pisciottano said. “Realizing the development plan unveiled today by Governor Shapiro will promote industry and economic growth across our region. My colleagues and I will continue doing everything in our power at the state level to support this vision.”
“The global pandemic did a number on our nation’s cities, but we are not going to let that be the story of Pittsburgh,” state Rep. Dan Frankel said. “Our city can and must have a downtown neighborhood that feels safe, convenient, and fun. The enormous investment announced today -- paired with a commitment to social services -- is a powerful signal that the City of Bridges is coming back, stronger than ever.”
"Building more housing is essential in Pittsburgh and across PA -- a fact that transcends partisanship. Thanks to our comprehensive public and private partnerships, these investments will help to increase the vitality and sustainability of the Steel City," state Rep. Lindsay Powell said. "I look forward to continuing this great work with Governor Shapiro, our local stakeholders, and my colleagues in Harrisburg to make Pittsburgh a more vibrant city for residents and visitors alike."
In addition to Abney, Frankel, Powell, and Pisciottano, the Allegheny County Delegation comprises state Reps. Jessica Benham, Dan Deasy, Matthew Gergely, Emily Kinkead, Anita Kulik, Brandon Markosek, La’Tasha D. Mayes, Joe McAndrew, Dan Miller, Abigail Salisbury, Mandy Steele and Arvind Venkat.