Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pittsburgh public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in development with high priority
East Liberty Transit Revitalization Investment District Phase III
The city is moving to formally adopt Phase III of the East Liberty Transit Revitalization Investment District plan, which channels future tax revenue growth near the East Liberty transit hub into neighborhood reinvestment. The plan touches Council Districts 7, 8 and 9 and includes related agreements with partner agencies.
Housing Opportunity Fund Funding and Program Priorities
The budget cuts URA funding roughly 40% and replaces some Housing Opportunity Fund-supported programming with a vague $3 million line item. Councilwoman Warwick called the fund's return on investment exceptional and said council must find the $10 million to keep it whole.
New Affordable Housing and Mobility Funds
Two new funds were proposed: an Affordable Housing Payment Fund to support affordable housing in the same neighborhoods as bonus-qualified developments, and a Mobility Improvement Trust for multimodal infrastructure near new development. Both would capture value tied to new development.
Pittsburgh Land Bank Property Acquisitions
Multiple resolutions would transfer City interests in vacant, publicly-owned parcels in the 12th and 18th Wards to the Pittsburgh Land Bank at no cost, positioning them for reuse.
Proposed Polish Hill overflow shelter
The county wants a year-round overflow shelter on Bigelow Boulevard in Polish Hill to replace the temporary North Side winter site. A zoning board hearing is set for November 12.
Kelly Street Affordable Housing Rezoning
Action Housing is seeking a zoning change on Kelly Street in Homewood West to build a 38-unit affordable housing complex on long-vacant city-owned land. The project aims to bring much-needed affordable rentals and revitalize a vacant gateway site.
Revived Side Yard Sale Program
Council created the city's first formal side yard sale program, letting residents buy small city-owned lots next to their homes. Homeowners and community groups have long sought this as a tool to put vacant land back into productive use.
Housing Opportunity Fund Advisory Board Appointment
The city is reviewing the appointment of Marita Bradley to the Housing Opportunity Fund Advisory Board, which oversees affordable housing resources and gap financing.
Closure of Roots Drop-In Center
Community members and service providers raised urgent concerns about the recent closure of the Roots drop-in center on the North Side, warning that unhoused residents lack vital support as winter approaches.
Northside Real Estate Tax Exemption Program
The city is considering tax breaks to encourage developers to turn older, empty office buildings on the Northside into housing and other uses. Supporters hope this will spark investment similar to downtown programs and bring more residents to the neighborhood.