[pj3000]

^ I think you're talking about the North Shore Connector. That's where it's surfacing.

[AaronPGH]

This building is smack dab against the 31st street bridge. It's an old industrial building in the Strip. And yes, from what I saw...it is being rehabbed.
I think it will end up looking fantastic.

Interesting. I work in the Strip and somehow missed this. I'll have to keep my eyes peeled.

[Tombstoner]

True. Monitoring equipment was located downwind of the Clairton Coke Works.

However, Pittsburgh's air quality is not good at all. I was recently involved in an environmental health symposium with UPMC, CMU, and Alcoa on the very topic of Pittsburgh's poor air quality. Shocking numbers for the region, regardless of the methodologies used. We need to do much better around here.

Interesting--I'd love to see some data if you have it available.
How much of this is within local control? Pittburgh has huge parks and lots of greenery. I don't think we use our vehicles nearly as much as other cities, and they are dirtier than elsewhere. Relative to Atlanta, Chicago, LA, Phoenix, Miami (the only places I experience a lot) I see tons of people on public transport... I'm just wondering how we could do better apart from continuing efforts to clean up industrial emissions (I'm not disagreeing with you at all, I'm just wondering if this symposium had thoughts on specifically what more could be done).

[George Woods]

Pj3000: No, I know what you mean. The trolley will surface west of the garage between the garage and Heinz Field. I've seen the tunnel it'll come out of. That's been there a while. I'm talking about an actual foundation that's already underway south of the garage, across General Robinson Street from it. And it's across North Shore Drive from the new office building with the Irish-named restaurant and steakhouse in it.

[hyperion1110]

Interesting--I'd love to see some data if you have it available.
How much of this is within local control? Pittburgh has huge parks and lots of greenery. I don't think we use our vehicles nearly as much as other cities, and they are dirtier than elsewhere. Relative to Atlanta, Chicago, LA, Phoenix, Miami (the only places I experience a lot) I see tons of people on public transport... I'm just wondering how we could do better apart from continuing efforts to clean up industrial emissions (I'm not disagreeing with you at all, I'm just wondering if this symposium had thoughts on specifically what more could be done).

Allegheny County has one of the highest rates of public transit use in the country. Excluding the various counties in and around NYC, it's somewhere around the top five. Also, commute times for drivers in Pgh are rather low, which translates into less emissions. So, I don't know what much more could be done to improve the air from those angles.

Based on personal observation, and I don't know how impactful this is to overall air quality, Port Authority buses seem to put out HUGE amounts of pollution. I mean, whenever I hear people talk about how "green" diesel is, I think of trying to walk in Oakland or Downtown with all of the buses going through. It really is very disgusting! Those buses need to be replaced with natural gas- or fuel cell-powered versions like yesterday!

[chucka]

The foundations being constructed on the North Side between the two stadiums and under the highway is a Hyatt Place Hotel.
Here is an article about it from last year:
City planners OK hotel near PNC; citizen group had sought a delay (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08142/883446-53.stm)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_mvL-9Lyof-I/Ss9jY4e6BmI/AAAAAAAAL7M/pmqJwb33Cn0/s912/Picture18.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_mvL-9Lyof-I/Ss9jZX1z4bI/AAAAAAAAL7Q/JMaaVjENvUg/s1024/Picture2.jpg

[PA Pride]

^Thanks for the render chucka.


hyperion: In addition to the high rate of transit use, Pittsburgh is also 2nd in the country for rate of people who walk to work after Boston.

[George Woods]

Yeah, Chucka, thanks. I knew one of you would have it. Lotta hotels being built simultaneously over there. How about the one on the site of that bar on Federal. Is that still happening?

[George Woods]

It's hard to believe more of us walk to work here than in New York. The other four counties probably skew the city's numbers. If Manhattan were still a city unto itself, surely it would be tops, right?

[pj3000]

Interesting--I'd love to see some data if you have it available.
How much of this is within local control? Pittburgh has huge parks and lots of greenery. I don't think we use our vehicles nearly as much as other cities, and they are dirtier than elsewhere. Relative to Atlanta, Chicago, LA, Phoenix, Miami (the only places I experience a lot) I see tons of people on public transport... I'm just wondering how we could do better apart from continuing efforts to clean up industrial emissions (I'm not disagreeing with you at all, I'm just wondering if this symposium had thoughts on specifically what more could be done).

Allegheny County has one of the highest rates of public transit use in the country. Excluding the various counties in and around NYC, it's somewhere around the top five. Also, commute times for drivers in Pgh are rather low, which translates into less emissions. So, I don't know what much more could be done to improve the air from those angles.

Based on personal observation, and I don't know how impactful this is to overall air quality, Port Authority buses seem to put out HUGE amounts of pollution. I mean, whenever I hear people talk about how "green" diesel is, I think of trying to walk in Oakland or Downtown with all of the buses going through. It really is very disgusting! Those buses need to be replaced with natural gas- or fuel cell-powered versions like yesterday!

I do have a good bit of data, but unfortunately I really can't share it since it is not really mine to share. It's proprietary research data and it would be pretty unethical for me to post it.

As we said above, Pittsburgh does get a good bit of pollution migrating from southern Ohio and W VA, and our topography, humidity levels, and predominant wind patterns (and lack thereof in some cases) serve to act as a trap for this polluted air. So, looking at it that way, it's not really in our control locally. However, it is absolutely necessary to push for healthier air quality standards nationally, because we obviously don't live in a vacuum. We must remember that air quality is never a local issue.

In Pittsburgh, we do not have as many vehicles on the roads as those other cities you mention and we do use public transit relatively well. However... again our topography, climate, etc. exacerbate the levels of our auto emissions. For a region the size of Pittsburgh, our ground level ozone numbers are simply too high to be considered healthy. But this is just a part of our overall poor air quality. It is the emissions from our nearby industrial facilities (power plants in particular) that are the cause for the most concern. We are finding more and more troubling information on the effects of the ultrafine particulate matter emitted from industrial processes on the human respiratory system. Pittsburgh is horrible in this department.

So, what can be done? Well, pushing for more and more convenient public transit is one small step. But, establishing healthier limits for industrial pollutants is a big step. The PA DEP actually does a very poor job of regulation. It's really not their fault, given the overall weak federal air quality standards. Our current clean air laws do not take into account some of what have been found to be the most highly pernicious respiratory toxins. That is the crux of what we have been investigating... our current air quality standards have simply not kept pace with medical/environmental health research.

It may seem that the American Lung Association is picking on Pittsburgh by calling it the most polluted city, while basing their findings primarily on a single monitoring station in close proximity to the Clairton Coke Works. But, there is a motivation behind it... to get that facility to literally clean up its act and put pressure on the powers that be in Pittsburgh proper to see that it happens. Maybe by the fifth year at the top of the list for particulate pollution we will finally see a meaningful response from our elected officials.

Hyperion, I know what you mean about the buses. It is disgusting to get a face-full of hot diesel exhaust while standing on the sidewalk. Try living in Manhattan in the summer! As ugly as it is to see buses spew that crap out, a single diesel bus is a cleaner way to transport 40 people than 40 cars/trucks. You are correct that our port authority should require new buses to be natural-gas powered or some other cleaner fuel source. And, the port authority and city council should be pushed in requiring port authority diesel buses to be fitted with new diesel particulate filters. The amount of pollution that is emitted is drastically reduced with those. A bus could by you and you might feel a little heat, but wouldn't see nor breathe any soot whatsoever.

[George Woods]

I was just playing around on Google maps, and they suddenly added lot lines to Pittsburgh. Neat.

[Evergrey]

fascinating commentary, pj3000!

[PA Pride]

It's hard to believe more of us walk to work here than in New York. The other four counties probably skew the city's numbers. If Manhattan were still a city unto itself, surely it would be tops, right?

This is for CITY not metro. 10.8% of city of Pittsburgh residents walk to work. One of the best rates in the nation.

New York is much larger. Even if you live and work in Manhattan, it could take hours to walk because it is so big. New York has a much higher percentage of transit ridership but not walking.



Boston (12.5 percent)
Pittsburgh (10.8 percent)
Washington, D.C. (10 percent)
San Francisco (9.6 percent)
New York (9.4 percent)
Philadelphia (8.1 percent)
Honolulu (6.9 percent)
Seattle (6.9 percent)
Minneapolis (5.8 percent)
Chicago (5.5 percent)
Baltimore (5.4 percent)

[PA Pride]

Compare to list of top 20 US cities for transit ridership:

1. New York, New York - 54.24%
2. Jersey City, New Jersey - 46.62%
3. Washington, D.C. - 38.97%
4. Boston, Massachusetts - 31.6%
5. San Francisco, California - 30.29%
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - 26.43%
7. Arlington, Virginia - 26.28%
8. Yonkers, New York - 25.47%
9. Chicago, Illinois - 25.38%
10. Newark, New Jersey - 24.04%
11. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - 21.14%
12. Alexandria, Virginia - 20.55%
13. Baltimore, Maryland - 19.55%
14. Seattle, Washington - 17.79%
15. Berkeley, California - 17.36%
16. Daly City, California - 17.27%
17. Oakland, California - 16.72%
18. Buffalo, New York - 15.62%
19. Richmond, California - 15.55%
20. Hartford, Connecticut - 15.5%

[Tombstoner]

:previous: Pretty impressive showing considering that most the other cities either have an excellent metro/light rail system and/or are bedroom communities for NYC, DC or SF and people there are probably availing themselves of those cities' metros. Buffalo is really the only city comparable to Pittsburgh in this regard and there is considerably less ridership there.

[dugdogmaster]

http://www.popcitymedia.com/innovationnews/energy1007.aspx

It's official: Pittsburgh IS a national hub for energy.

Six Pittsburgh energy companies announced the founding of the United States Center for Energy Leadership (USCEL) to be based in Pittsburgh: Plextronics, Westinghouse, Allegheny Energy, EQT, CONSOL Energy and BPL Global.

The mission of the group is to re-establish the U.S. as a leader in energy technology development, which bodes well for southwestern PA and its plethora of high profile energy and research companies, says Andy Hannah, president and CEO of Plextronics who was instrumental in the formation of USCEL along with Aris Candris of Westinghouse.

[George Woods]

This is for CITY not metro. 10.8% of city of Pittsburgh residents walk to work. One of the best rates in the nation.

New York is much larger. Even if you live and work in Manhattan, it could take hours to walk because it is so big. New York has a much higher percentage of transit ridership but not walking.



Boston (12.5 percent)
Pittsburgh (10.8 percent)
Washington, D.C. (10 percent)
San Francisco (9.6 percent)
New York (9.4 percent)
Philadelphia (8.1 percent)
Honolulu (6.9 percent)
Seattle (6.9 percent)
Minneapolis (5.8 percent)
Chicago (5.5 percent)
Baltimore (5.4 percent)


Yeah, I meant the other four counties that make up New York City (outside of Manhattan, which is New York County) might skew that city's numbers. New York is very unique in that it is composed of several entire counties. I doubt anywhere near the number of people who walk to work in Manhattan do so on Staten Island (Richmond County) or in Queens (Queens County).
You do have a point, though, that a lot of people would have a really long walk in Manhattan. It's not like you could necessarily just find an apartment by your job. Not there. Still, I wonder if we really have more walkers here than Manhattan. Regardless, our place on that list is awesome. Does anyone have a list of cities' bike-commuter numbers? I bike to work, and I swear I see more and more people doing so in Pittsburgh all the time.

[George Woods]

Peddling Pittsburgh: David Byrne names the Burgh a top bicycle city

"David Byrne, the former frontman of the Talking Heads, has come out with a book chronicling his favorite cycling cities, and--no surprise--Pittsburgh makes the cut."




http://www.popcitymedia.com/inthenews/byrnebike1007.aspx

[hyperion1110]

I do have a good bit of data, but unfortunately I really can't share it since it is not really mine to share. It's proprietary research data and it would be pretty unethical for me to post it.

As we said above, Pittsburgh does get a good bit of pollution migrating from southern Ohio and W VA, and our topography, humidity levels, and predominant wind patterns (and lack thereof in some cases) serve to act as a trap for this polluted air. So, looking at it that way, it's not really in our control locally. However, it is absolutely necessary to push for healthier air quality standards nationally, because we obviously don't live in a vacuum. We must remember that air quality is never a local issue.

In Pittsburgh, we do not have as many vehicles on the roads as those other cities you mention and we do use public transit relatively well. However... again our topography, climate, etc. exacerbate the levels of our auto emissions. For a region the size of Pittsburgh, our ground level ozone numbers are simply too high to be considered healthy. But this is just a part of our overall poor air quality. It is the emissions from our nearby industrial facilities (power plants in particular) that are the cause for the most concern. We are finding more and more troubling information on the effects of the ultrafine particulate matter emitted from industrial processes on the human respiratory system. Pittsburgh is horrible in this department.

So, what can be done? Well, pushing for more and more convenient public transit is one small step. But, establishing healthier limits for industrial pollutants is a big step. The PA DEP actually does a very poor job of regulation. It's really not their fault, given the overall weak federal air quality standards. Our current clean air laws do not take into account some of what have been found to be the most highly pernicious respiratory toxins. That is the crux of what we have been investigating... our current air quality standards have simply not kept pace with medical/environmental health research.

It may seem that the American Lung Association is picking on Pittsburgh by calling it the most polluted city, while basing their findings primarily on a single monitoring station in close proximity to the Clairton Coke Works. But, there is a motivation behind it... to get that facility to literally clean up its act and put pressure on the powers that be in Pittsburgh proper to see that it happens. Maybe by the fifth year at the top of the list for particulate pollution we will finally see a meaningful response from our elected officials.

Hyperion, I know what you mean about the buses. It is disgusting to get a face-full of hot diesel exhaust while standing on the sidewalk. Try living in Manhattan in the summer! As ugly as it is to see buses spew that crap out, a single diesel bus is a cleaner way to transport 40 people than 40 cars/trucks. You are correct that our port authority should require new buses to be natural-gas powered or some other cleaner fuel source. And, the port authority and city council should be pushed in requiring port authority diesel buses to be fitted with new diesel particulate filters. The amount of pollution that is emitted is drastically reduced with those. A bus could by you and you might feel a little heat, but wouldn't see nor breathe any soot whatsoever.

Excellent analysis, pj3000. You argue your points well. I hope the powers that be take note of your advice and do something about the air quality problems.

[JakeLiefer]

If the Pittsburgh Technology Center has been so successful in bringing new businesses and businesses that pay taxes to that land, why not just get moving on the old mill monstrosity that is sitting there in Hazelwood and make that part of the Pittsburgh Technology Center?

Several months ago on here (maybe 100+ pages back?), someone working for the property owners shed some light on the Hazelwood development. Right now, the Hazelwood development is getting all the dirt from the North Shore Connector Project. This is the first phase in getting it ready for development, as it'll cover over the foundations and allow sewage pipes to be laid.

I wish that they'd put a couple small lunch restaurants or a coffeeshop in the Pittsburgh Technology Center. It seems like a good fit, a place with several hundred workers and they have to go across the river to get to anything.

[Evergrey]

the quality of life in the city continues to decline

http://kdka.com/local/carnegie.library.closures.2.1230796.html

Carnegie Library To Close 4 Branches

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―

The Carnegie Public Library of Pittsburgh voted to close, move or merge several of its branches Tuesday.

The Carnegie Library Board of Trustees announced drastic system changes at a news conference Tuesday morning.

Here are the closures:

* Beechview
* West End
* Hazelwood
* Lawrenceville


Other Changes:

* Carrick and Knoxville will merge.
* Mount Washington Library will move from Grandview Avenue to Virginia Avenue.
* The depository on the North Side in the old Allegheny Regional Building.
* Hours will be reduced a total of 28 percent.
* 30 positions set to be eliminated by either retirement, voluntary resignation or if necessary there will be cuts.
* Fines and fees will also be increasing.


According to those are in charge of the system, the changes were a long time coming.

However, that is very little comfort to the board members, as well as the thousands who love their neighborhood libraries.

"It was quite an experience for me. It was very heart-breaking. It was very eye-opening. And I do believe that we have done everything possible to do the best we can under the circumstances," Jacqui Fiske Lazo of the Library Board of Directors said.

"I'm just sick that the city just hosted the G-20 and yet our libraries are in this condition, right now where we have to worry about whether or not we're going to keep our library. Something is not right," Suzanne Park said.

These changes are for the long term, but if they continue to have a deficit, they will have to make additional changes.

The new reduced service hours are set to take place Jan. 2, 2010. The closures will happen Feb. 3, 2010.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

[PA Pride]

Does anyone have a list of cities' bike-commuter numbers? I bike to work, and I swear I see more and more people doing so in Pittsburgh all the time.


Pittsburgh is 24th in the country for percentage of bike commuters.

Rank | City | % of population bike commuting

1 Portland OR 6
.
2 Minneapolis MN 4.3
.
3 Seattle WA 2.9
.
4 Sacramento CA 2.7
.
5 San Francisco CA 2.7
.
6 Washington DC 2.3
.
7 Oakland CA 2.1
.
8 Tucson AZ 2
.
9 Albuquerque NM 1.8
.
10 Boston MA 1.6

11 Denver CO 1.6
.
12 Philadelphia PA 1.6
.
13 Honolulu HI 1.5
.
14 Austin TX 1.3
.
15 Anaheim CA 1.2
.
16 San Jose CA 1.2
.
17 Tampa FL 1.2
.
18 Milwaukee WI 1.1

19 Chicago IL 1
.
20 Long Beach CA 1
.
21 Columbus OH 0.9
.
22 Los Angeles CA 0.9
.
23 San Diego CA 0.9
.
24 Pittsburgh PA 0.8

[George Woods]

Thanks, PA Pride.

Coincidentally:

http://nullspace2.blogspot.com/2009/10/bike-burgh-or-not.html

[Grimacista]

the quality of life in the city continues to decline

http://kdka.com/local/carnegie.library.closures.2.1230796.html

Carnegie Library To Close 4 Branches

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―

The Carnegie Public Library of Pittsburgh voted to close, move or merge several of its branches Tuesday.

The Carnegie Library Board of Trustees announced drastic system changes at a news conference Tuesday morning.

Here are the closures:

* Beechview
* West End
* Hazelwood
* Lawrenceville


Other Changes:

* Carrick and Knoxville will merge.
* Mount Washington Library will move from Grandview Avenue to Virginia Avenue.
* The depository on the North Side in the old Allegheny Regional Building.
* Hours will be reduced a total of 28 percent.
* 30 positions set to be eliminated by either retirement, voluntary resignation or if necessary there will be cuts.
* Fines and fees will also be increasing.


According to those are in charge of the system, the changes were a long time coming.

However, that is very little comfort to the board members, as well as the thousands who love their neighborhood libraries.

"It was quite an experience for me. It was very heart-breaking. It was very eye-opening. And I do believe that we have done everything possible to do the best we can under the circumstances," Jacqui Fiske Lazo of the Library Board of Directors said.

"I'm just sick that the city just hosted the G-20 and yet our libraries are in this condition, right now where we have to worry about whether or not we're going to keep our library. Something is not right," Suzanne Park said.

These changes are for the long term, but if they continue to have a deficit, they will have to make additional changes.

The new reduced service hours are set to take place Jan. 2, 2010. The closures will happen Feb. 3, 2010.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

That is too bad but it isn't entirely stunning. Fewer tax dollars to go around and continuing population loss. The city and many of its individual neighborhoods just don't have enough people to make these kinds of expenditures worthwhile. Keep open as many as you can to serve as many as you can but cut what is unsustainable. It is too bad the Hazelwood location is shutting down, it is an attractive structure and pretty much the nicest thing in Hazelwood.

Yet another example of the tax dollars collected from you going........?

[George Woods]

^
The really pathetic thing about Hazelwood's library closing is that they just closed the original one and replaced it with a new one on Second Avenue a few years ago. Now they're closing the new one. And it's too bad for the people in the West End, too. They're pretty isolated by topography. And it just seems like the Lawrenceville one gets enough traffic to merit staying open, but, oh well.

[Wiz Khalifa]

I was driving west on the parkway east yesterday afternoon, and the construction had it reduced to one lane inbound and it was a complete mess. It looked like they were finally making the whole road from Wilkinsburg to Monroeville 6 lanes. They were fixing all of the infrastructure overpasses and all.

Then I reached then outdated, crumbling tunnels and it still took 20 minutes to get through them, even though the parkway had been reduced to one lane most of the way. When the hell are they going to figure out that no matter how nice they make the road on either side, it won't make a difference if they ignore the bottleneck that is the tunnels? Not only are they a continually worsening traffic problem, but in their current condition are an embarrassment to outsiders that drive in to visit the city.

[pj3000]

It is too bad the Hazelwood location is shutting down, it is an attractive structure and pretty much the nicest thing in Hazelwood.



You're right that it's probably the nicest thing in Hazelwood, but I find it far from an attractive structure. I think it is ridiculous that a Carnegie Library is located above a beer distributor/convenience store.

Not that I don't love beer... but it just goes to show the value our society places on libraries these days. Places of learning used to be housed in architecturally-significant structures that commanded respect. Now we put our libraries on the second floor of a concrete-block convenience store. It's pathetic, really. I just have to wonder what Andrew Carnegie would think if he could see what has become of his libraries.

[Johnland]

I was driving west on the parkway east yesterday afternoon, and the construction had it reduced to one lane inbound and it was a complete mess. It looked like they were finally making the whole road from Wilkinsburg to Monroeville 6 lanes. They were fixing all of the infrastructure overpasses and all.

Then I reached then outdated, crumbling tunnels and it still took 20 minutes to get through them, even though the parkway had been reduced to one lane most of the way. When the hell are they going to figure out that no matter how nice they make the road on either side, it won't make a difference if they ignore the bottleneck that is the tunnels? Not only are they a continually worsening traffic problem, but in their current condition are an embarrassment to outsiders that drive in to visit the city.

Is there just no way a third lane each direction can be added to the Sq. Hill Tunnel? It was originally built in 40's or 50's. Technoligically, it should be possible. And if they can bore tunnels under the Allegheny River for a basically couple_of_stops light rail spur, you'd think a land tunnel under Sq. Hill could be done. But then, maybe there's building issues that are preventing any expansion. One thing's for sure, a new tunnel under Sq. Hill will get a thousand times more users than the light rail tunnel. I'm not against the light rail, just noting relative priorities.

[MattofSloppyVariety]

did anyone else notice the electronics store that opened quietly in the old Don Allen building?

[pj3000]

Yeah, I saw that as I was passing by the other day. It looked like they had 1980s style boom boxes on display!

[PA Pride]

Yeah, I saw that as I was passing by the other day. It looked like they had 1980s style boom boxes on display!

I believe the correct term is "ghetto blaster"

http://www.wired.com/images_blogs/gadgetlab/images/2008/04/18/lasonicfmsgb.jpg
http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2008/04/review-21st-cen/

[Evergrey]

did anyone else notice the electronics store that opened quietly in the old Don Allen building?

ughhhhh... I worry this is an indication that the owners of that property have given up on redeveloping it...

...

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09285/1004801-53.stm

South Side residents rankled by condo plan

Neighbors predict it will be 'an eyesore'

Monday, October 12, 2009
By Diana Nelson Jones, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/images/200910/tt_20091010_local_harcum_wa.1_500.jpg
Tony Tye/Post-Gazette
Residents Mike Kocinsky, Pete Kazimer and Mike Hmel stand on Harcum Way on the South Side, where they are opposing a developer's plan to build three 40-foot condominiums.

You could sniff through the South Side like a bloodhound and still miss the block of Harcum Way where Mike Hmel lives.

It's virtually a road to nowhere, reached via another road to nowhere. It is two blocks of dead-end spur hemmed in by a steep slope and railroad tracks, and yet the world of $300,000 condominiums has found it.

Mr. Hmel and his neighbors are fuming.

The zoning designation for the blocks is 'H' for hillside. Three new four-story condos would require a special exception, plus variances for height and lot size.

Shaheen, Haupt and Hagerty Development asked for the exception and variances in August and await a decision by the Pittsburgh Zoning Board of Adjustment. About 18 residents attended a board hearing at the time in opposition to the plan.

Mr. Hmel and two of his neighbors, all of whom were raised on the street, are amazed that anyone but them and lifelong neighbors could even find their little street, much less find it appealing.

"Would you spend that much money to look at a brick wall [in front] and have a brick wall holding up a hillside behind you?" asked Mr. Hmel, 51. The development would occupy what are now four lots across from a warehouse used as a photography studio.

"It will be the most inconvenient thing and an eyesore," said resident Barb Kazimer. "On a 14-foot-wide street, it's a ridiculous idea."

The residents argue that 40-foot condos would be too big for the street, which contains modest two-story homes. The street is so narrow that residents park their cars on the sidewalk. For condo residents to pull out of their garages, they said, other residents would have to give up the few spaces they jockey for now.

They also said the impact of construction could weaken or damage the hillside retaining wall and that construction would block other residents.

The developers, they said, made no entreaties to them early on.

"They claimed they talked to the neighbors," said Mr. Hmel. "They did talk to Pete [Kazimer]. They said, 'Oh, by the way, we're building three condos.' "

The development partners could not be reached for comment.

At the August zoning board hearing, City Councilman Bruce Kraus asked the developers to first take their proposal to the South Side Neighborhood Planning Forum.

The forum took the matter to the South Side Community Council's zoning subcommittee "to work out the details," said Rick Belolli, executive director of the South Side Local Development Corp., one of several entities involved in the forum.

"I'm expecting a report on that process next week," he said, "but I have heard there doesn't seem to be much room for common ground."

The zoning board's decision is expected this month.

Mr. Belolli said the developers have offered to build a turn-around at the end of the road and scaled their plan from four to three units.

"They have made some recognition of the neighbors' concerns," he said. "I agree the street is very narrow. It predates modern roadway design and is logistically challenged.

"It's always a balancing act to do new development in an existing neighborhood," he said. "We are thrilled a developer has indicated an interest in bringing housing options to the South Side, but I tell developers that if they need special exceptions and variances, those are privileges and not a right. You need to respect the neighbors to deserve that privilege."

Diana Nelson Jones can be reached a djones@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1626. Read her City Walkabout blog at post-gazette.com/localnews.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09285/1004801-53.stm#ixzz0ThDizPMu

[Evergrey]

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09284/1004307-109.stm?cmpid=newspanel

Sunday Forum: The best new idea in urban design: old-fashioned towns

Densely populated communities like the aging Mt. Lebanon show the way to the future, says author/activist THOMAS HYLTON

Sunday, October 11, 2009
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

We know sprawl is bad. During the last 50 years, low-density, auto-dependent development has emptied our cities and towns, chewed up farmland and open space, increased traffic congestion and contributed mightily to global warming.

We have the antidote: traditional towns. These higher-density communities place houses, stores and workplaces on small lots, in close proximity, conserving land and allowing people to walk or take public transportation to many of their destinations.

But to attract residents and businesses, they have to look good.

This Thursday, the Community Design Center of Pittsburgh and other partners will conduct a workshop in Mt. Lebanon -- one of the loveliest communities in Pennsylvania -- to demonstrate how the design and placement of buildings can raise property values, protect the environment and enhance our quality of life.

Mt. Lebanon is a classic example of good design. With 33,000 residents on six square miles, Mt. Lebanon is more densely populated than such mid-sized Pennsylvania cities as Erie, Bethlehem and Scranton. It has a traditional downtown and several small shopping plazas woven into residential neighborhoods. It can support public transportation.

Although Mt. Lebanon was developed to accommodate cars, it is not overwhelmed by them. In residential areas, modest garages are hidden behind houses or tucked away in basements. Commercial parking lots, too, are frequently screened by buildings or berms.

The township boasts a great mix of housing, handsomely constructed of brick and stone. Apartment buildings, two deckers and single-family homes peacefully coexist in the same neighborhoods and often on the same blocks. Mt. Lebanon has carefully maintained its neighborhood schools, many dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. Even though it has no historic districts, Mt. Lebanon's distinctive character is remarkably intact.

How do you encourage such good design elsewhere? At Thursday's workshop, I'll be talking about an innovative zoning ordinance my town of Pottstown developed with state and private grants to ensure new development complements the historic fabric of our town.

First, we created a conservation district to cover the entire downtown and every residential area of our borough. Before creating the district, we successfully sought a declaration from the state Bureau of Historic Preservation that most of our downtown and residential neighborhoods were eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. A "declaration of eligibility" was far less difficult to obtain than an actual listing on the National Register, but still provided the necessary legal justification for the zoning. Many Allegheny County communities could do the same.

The conservation district forbids the demolition of any building with historic value unless the owner can demonstrate that no viable alternatives exist for the reuse of the building. However, if demolition is an integral and unavoidable part of a larger construction scheme that provides a substantial public benefit, the removal of a building may be permitted.

Protecting historic structures is just one element of Pottstown's land use law. Among its other features:

• The ordinance is easy to read. It uses plain language, charts and photographs to explain how we want our town to grow.

• Instead of using arbitrary measurements for side yards, setbacks and building size, the ordinance calls for new buildings to be about the same size and have the same setbacks as existing buildings on the block. It allows room for negotiation.

• The ordinance relaxes parking requirements to make it easier for property owners to use the upper stories of existing downtown buildings. Parking spaces can be shared by commercial users during the day and residential users at night. New parking lots must be placed to the side and rear of buildings so they are less obtrusive and blend in with traditional neighborhoods.

• Ample shade trees are required along streets and in parking lots, where one tree must be planted for every two parking spaces. Suburbs enjoy horizontal green space in the form of open fields. Towns can be just as verdant by going vertical with a shade tree canopy.

• The ordinance controls the appearance of new construction. Zoning laws typically limit the size of new buildings and where they may be placed, but not what they look like. Pottstown's zoning ordinance establishes design guidelines for new buildings, both in our conservation district and our strip commercial areas. Major chain stores and fast-food franchises are increasingly willing to design buildings compatible with traditional architecture if a municipality asks them to.

These tools establish the ground rules as we negotiate with developers. To make it easier for property owners to comply with our ordinance, Pottstown has contracted with a design professional to provide free advice for applicants who want to erect a new building or modify the appearance of an existing one. We've hired landscape architects and town planners on an ad hoc basis to suggest improvements to plans that have been submitted. For the most part, developers have been happy to cooperate.

If we want to coax people out of their cars and their suburban McMansions, we need to create communities that are a joy to experience up close and personal. That means good design.


Thomas Hylton, author of "Save Our Land, Save Our Towns," has served on Pottstown's planning commission for 10 years (thomashylton@comcast.net). He also is president of the nonprofit corporation Save Our Land, Save Our Towns (www.saveourlandsaveourtowns.org).

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09284/1004307-109.stm?cmpid=newspanel#ixzz0ThFGUHSG

[JakeLiefer]

Pa. finalizes bid for billions for high-speed rail
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Pennsylvania has formalized its applications for more than $3 billion in federal economic stimulus funds for high-speed rail projects, including a magnetic levitation train from Pittsburgh International Airport to Downtown and Greensburg.

Some $8 billion is available nationwide; states submitted $102 billion in pre-application requests to the Federal Railroad Administration in July.

Pennsylvania is seeking $2.3 billion to design and build the first maglev segment from the airport to Downtown. The project received a boost last month with $28 million in federal funding secured by U.S. Sens. Arlen Specter and Bob Casey for continued planning.

The state also wants stimulus money to cover half of the $1.5 million cost of a study into enhancing passenger rail service from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg.

Its application seeks $489.8 million for four projects improving the Harrisburg-to-Philadelphia passenger rail line; and $401 million for restoration of passenger service between Scranton and Hoboken, N.J., with connections to Penn Station in Manhattan.

No timetable has been set for awarding grants, said Federal Railroad Administration spokesman Warren Flatau.


Personally, I'd rather see money go towards the Pittsburgh to Harrisburg route. With a turnpike toll of $21.60 and vehicle cost of $162 (Based on federal $.55 mile x 294 miles), high speed rail from Pittsburgh to Philly is a viable alternative. And with Philly to Harrisburg already finished, it only makes sense to complete it the rest of the way. Although, flying on Southwest to Philly is only $59 one way.

[MattofSloppyVariety]

Yeah, I saw that as I was passing by the other day. It looked like they had 1980s style boom boxes on display!

Ok, so i'm retarded, as i was driving through there today to get to work i noticed that they are in fact taping a television show or movie. Dead giveaway today, the huge lights and the blacked out windows. I guess another give away would be the fact that they named it Northside Electronics.

[PA Pride]

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/images/200910/tt_20091010_local_harcum_wa.1_500.jpg


I love this photo! Narrow little street with a long view; And USX standing tall in the distance. :)

[PA Pride]

By the way. The year 2009 is the 150th anniversary of public transit in Pittsburgh. In 1859 they laid the first rail for horse drawn public transportation.
Amazing how much has come and gone since then. An extensive streetcar system. BRT - Bus rapid transit lines with their own lanes and tunnels (east end busway; west end busway). Subway/lightrail service. And now a glorious tunnel the northside!

[Evergrey]

http://mac10.umc.pitt.edu/m/FMPro?-db=ma&-lay=a&-format=d.html&id=3854&-Find

Pitt Is the Nation's Top-ranked Public University in the 2009 Edition of Saviors of Our Cities: A Survey of Best College and University Civic Partnerships, Released Today

PITTSBURGH-

Pitt is the nation's top-ranked public “Best Neighbor” educational institution in the 2009 edition of “Saviors of Our Cities: A Survey of Best College and University Civic Partnerships”.

The top 25 institutions listed in the rankings “were selected because of their positive impact on their urban communities, including both commercial and residential activities such as revitalization, cultural renewal, economics, and community service and development,” according to today's announcement of the survey results by Dr. Evan S. Dobelle, the survey's author, who is president of Westfield State College in Massachusetts and former president of the New England Board of Higher Education.

Saying that the current state of the U.S. economy makes the economic relationship between institutions of higher education and their local communities “more important than ever,” Dr. Dobelle released the report's findings today in Philadelphia during the 15th annual conference of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities. When ranked with all institutions of higher education, public and private, Pitt was tied for second place in the survey with the University of Dayton; the University of Pennsylvania and USC were tied for first place in the survey. Pitt is the only public institution among these four universities.

“The people of Pitt always have been proud to claim Pittsburgh as our home and have worked hard to create and support programs that add to the economic strength, social vitality, and overall attractiveness of the community,” said Pitt Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg. “Over the course of recent years, the role that our University has played in this region's rebirth has been cited with envy by observers from other parts of the country. To now be ranked as the country's very 'best neighbor' among all of the nation's public universities in the 'Saviors of Our Cities' survey is a wonderful form of recognition for those efforts and their impact.”

This is the second “Saviors of Our Cities” ranking; in the first, issued in 2006, Pitt was ranked 6th among public institutions and 18th among all schools, public and private.

The “Saviors of Our Cities” rankings “are composed of academic institutions diverse in size, geography, and course offerings,” according to the announcement of the survey results. “They have demonstrated and documented long-standing cooperative efforts with community leaders to rehabilitate the cities around them, to influence community revitalization and cultural renewal, and to encourage economic expansion of the local economy, urban development, and community service.”

Among the criteria for assessment in the survey were length of involvement with the community; real dollars invested; the presence felt through payroll, research, and purchasing power; faculty and student involvement in community service; continued sustainability of neighborhood initiatives; quantifiable increase in positive recognition of the institution; qualitative esprit of the institution in its engagement; and recognition of the impact of these institutions within their communities.

In the published survey text, Dr. Dobelle stated, “Pitt's motto is, 'The city is our campus,' and through an engagement program, which builds upon the historic connection between institution and metropolitan area, the university has played a key role in helping to economically, culturally, and physically revitalize Pittsburgh.

“Working through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Pitt created the Community Outreach Partnership Center, which has leveraged the university's resources in a manner which supports neighborhood partnerships in order to address neighborhood concerns. The selection of the city as the site of the 2009 G-20 Summit reflects an urban economy discovering 'life after steel.' PITT ARTS connects the university's students with the city's emerging and energetic art scene.

“Pitt has set the dimensions and pace of engagement in Pittsburgh,” Dr. Dobelle concluded. “Its neighborhood collaborations have resulted in physically and economically revitalized neighborhoods. Neighborhood is the key here. Pitt's engagement benefits the entire metropolitan region, one neighborhood at a time.”

With respect to the economic criteria considered in the rankings, Dr. Dobelle reviewed the following important elements of Pitt's annual impact on the local economy:

o $5.6 billion in earnings by nearly 74,800 Pitt alumni residing in Allegheny County;
o $1.74 billion in total University-related spending;
o $1.3 billion in personal income generated from nearly 33,800 Pitt-supported jobs;
o $642 million in sponsored research, supporting more than 23,100 jobs;
o $151.7 million in direct and induced expenditures associated with people visiting Pitt;
o $145.2 million to communities, including sales, wage, and real estate taxes; and
o $140.7 million average annual investment on construction from FY 2006 through FY 2008, generating more than 1,300 jobs in construction and related industries.

###
10/12/09/amm

[PA Pride]

Yay Pitt! I wanna go there someday.... To get my masters or something. It always ranks as one of the best values in the country: the quality of the school in relation to the cost of admission is a great deal.

[Krases]

I love this photo! Narrow little street with a long view; And USX standing tall in the distance. :)

Is it just me, or does that pic look like it was taken in the 80's?

[pj3000]

^ Sure does. Those guys are likely talking about something that happened in the 80s too.

A lot of Pittsburgh looks that way though...

[PA Pride]

Is it just me, or does that pic look like it was taken in the 80's?

Judging by the cars, yes you might guess 80s. However judging by the buildings you would have to guess much older. Maybe the 1930s or 40s.

[gallacus]

I was driving west on the parkway east yesterday afternoon, and the construction had it reduced to one lane inbound and it was a complete mess. It looked like they were finally making the whole road from Wilkinsburg to Monroeville 6 lanes. They were fixing all of the infrastructure overpasses and all.

Then I reached then outdated, crumbling tunnels and it still took 20 minutes to get through them, even though the parkway had been reduced to one lane most of the way. When the hell are they going to figure out that no matter how nice they make the road on either side, it won't make a difference if they ignore the bottleneck that is the tunnels? Not only are they a continually worsening traffic problem, but in their current condition are an embarrassment to outsiders that drive in to visit the city.

I'm reasonably certain that the upgrades to the Parkway East do not include widening it. It will remain two lanes. It just seems that it will be wider as they have you routed onto the shoulder for now as they work on the left lanes.

As for the tunnel causing traffic, I think the exits immediately before and after the tunnel are actually more to blame then the tunnel itself. If you pay close attention, there is always congestion leading up to the Edgewood exit, then it speeds up right before the tunnel, slows again in the tunnel, and speeds up again after Squirrel Hill exit.

[Steel Boy]

I agree that it's not the tunnels themselves that cause the tie-ups. The Edgewood/Swissvale on ramps cause a lot of slowing inbound, the horrific Squirrel Hill all-in-one entrance and exit ramps cause a backup outbound. Over at the Ft. Pitt Tunnels, you have two on-ramp lanes coming from Banksville Road that need to get to the two left lanes of the parkway into the tunnels inbound, then outbound is the Ft. Pitt Bridge luge and jockey.

The parkway will never be able to be widened. Everything is built right up to the edge and the right-of-way acquisition costs would be prohibitive.

[hyperion1110]

This city, county, state, and country have too many roads as it is! Roads are expensive to build, and even more expensive to maintain.

You want to fix the traffic problem through the Sq. Hill Tunnel? Have mandatory classes for all the morons who don't understand the meaning of the words, "Maintain Speed Through Tunnel."

[pj3000]

You want to fix the traffic problem through the Sq. Hill Tunnel? Have mandatory classes for all the morons who don't understand the meaning of the words, "Maintain Speed Through Tunnel."

:haha: It's still a choke point though, regardless. The Squirrel Hill/Homestead exit area is probably one of the most poorly-designed highway structures in history. Eastbound or westbound, traffic must slow before or just after the tunnel to exit. And how about that Eastbound on-ramp in Squirrel Hill with the stop sign at the bottom, requiring either a slow creep or pedal to the metal double lane merge through exiting traffic to get in the eastbound lane! Think that might slow things down before entering a tunnel, and therefore back up traffic just a bit?? If there ever was an ultimate highway planning f-up, that takes the cake!

[Wiz Khalifa]

:haha: It's still a choke point though, regardless. The Squirrel Hill/Homestead exit area is probably one of the most poorly-designed highway structures in history. Eastbound or westbound, traffic must slow before or just after the tunnel to exit. And how about that Eastbound on-ramp in Squirrel Hill with the stop sign at the bottom, requiring either a slow creep or pedal to the metal double lane merge through exiting traffic to get in the eastbound lane! Think that might slow things down before entering a tunnel, and therefore back up traffic just a bit?? If there ever was an ultimate highway planning f-up, that takes the cake!



This is why making the tunnels 6 lanes would speed things up considerably without even fixing those ramps. The exit/entrance ramps on either side would have their own lane to merge on/off without having to slow down the main traffic flow in the original 4 lanes. Everybody wins.

I mean, they are tunneling under the Allegheny river at the moment, so how hard could it possibly be to widen an already existing tunnel?

[Evergrey]

Yay Pitt! I wanna go there someday.... To get my masters or something. It always ranks as one of the best values in the country: the quality of the school in relation to the cost of admission is a great deal.

CMU ranked 19th on the survey... maybe they got knocked down a few pegs due to their anti-development and anti-small business tactics in the Craig St. area lately.


...

^ Sure does. Those guys are likely talking about something that happened in the 80s too.



:haha:


...


Since we were just talking about Pittsburgh's air pollution championship... I thought this article would be of interest... the opening photo of that Serbian priest is soooo badass

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/13/us/13water.html

Cleansing the Air at the Expense of Waterways

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/10/13/business/water_600.jpg
Damon Winter/The New York Times

Father Rodney Torbic, the priest at the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, lives across the road from Hatfield’s Ferry and sees people suffering.

By CHARLES DUHIGG
Published: October 12, 2009

MASONTOWN, Pa. — For years, residents here complained about the yellow smoke pouring from the tall chimneys of the nearby coal-fired power plant, which left a film on their cars and pebbles of coal waste in their yards. Five states — including New York and New Jersey — sued the plant’s owner, Allegheny Energy, claiming the air pollution was causing respiratory diseases and acid rain.

So three years ago, when Allegheny Energy decided to install scrubbers to clean the plant’s air emissions, environmentalists were overjoyed. The technology would spray water and chemicals through the plant’s chimneys, trapping more than 150,000 tons of pollutants each year before they escaped into the sky.

But the cleaner air has come at a cost. Each day since the equipment was switched on in June, the company has dumped tens of thousands of gallons of wastewater containing chemicals from the scrubbing process into the Monongahela River, which provides drinking water to 350,000 people and flows into Pittsburgh, 40 miles to the north.

“It’s like they decided to spare us having to breathe in these poisons, but now we have to drink them instead,” said Philip Coleman, who lives about 15 miles from the plant and has asked a state judge to toughen the facility’s pollution regulations. “We can’t escape.”



....


click link for more
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/13/us/13water.html

[Evergrey]

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09286/1005054-53.stm?cmpid=entertainment.xml

Bad year for Pittsburgh's libraries with cuts and closings

Tuesday, October 13, 2009
By Bob Hoover, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/images/200910/revolution1012_500.jpg
Steve Mellon/Post-Gazette
Among the facilities scheduled to be closed by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is the Lawrenceville branch. It opened up much fanfare on May 10, 1898, as the library''s first branch.

http://www.post-gazette.com/images4/20091013carnegie_library_funding_340.gif

The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh faces another financial headache next year -- a 20.1 percent cut in state public library subsidies following last week's legislative approval of the state's new budget.

Calculated by the Pennsylvania Library Association yesterday, the statewide subsidy decreased by $15.1 million from the current $75.1 million. The state allocated $4.78 million to the Carnegie Library this year.

The Legislature also eliminated one major program -- the Electronic Library Catalog that links facilities around the state to provide reference material via the Internet.

"The Legislature basically returned all libraries to the pre-Internet age," said Barbara Mistick, director of the Carnegie Library. "That's a devastating change. It means the end to accessing information across the commonwealth."

The cutbacks, while expected, add up to a $1.2 million shortfall in next year's library revenues, Ms. Mistick said. That amount represents a little more than 5 percent of the library's 2009 operating budget of $23.3 million.

The deficit prompted the library's board of trustees last week to close four branches, merge two, eliminate 30 positions and cut operating hours by 28 percent systemwide. The changes will begin Jan. 2.

Using the library association figures, overall allocations for Pennsylvania libraries were cut 26.7 percent, including a 57.1 percent reduction in library access funds covering such services as interlibrary loan and a 47.8 percent slashing of the Office of Commonwealth Libraries, including the State Library in Harrisburg.

"That's also pretty amazing, considering we just opened a beautiful new state library building," Ms. Mistick said. "It's just not a good year for libraries."

Following the budget approval, state Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Squirrel Hill, said there might be an opportunity for additional funding to the Carnegie Library through legislation that would allow table games at the state's casinos.

But lawmakers have yet to agree on the details of the plan, including how much to tax revenue from table games.

Mr. Frankel said a portion of the city's allocation could go toward the library, but it is unknown how much money that might be.

Lawmakers would be interested in a plan that helps the libraries, provided that neighborhood branches such as the ones slated to close in Pittsburgh will stay open, said the legislator, whose district includes the Hazelwood branch, scheduled to close Feb. 1.

State Sen. Jim Ferlo, D-Highland Park, whose district includes the Lawrenceville branch, also due for elimination, said lawmakers are trying to "come up with some additional dedicated revenue, but that remains to be seen."

"It's certainly something we should look at, but I don't want to give any false hopes here," he said.

Charitable philosophy

The Carnegie Library's dependence on public support, rather than an endowment, has its roots in the charitable philosophy of its namesake and founder.

Andrew Carnegie began thinking about libraries when he was 33, listing one of his goals as "improvement of the poorer classes." By the 1880s, he was wealthy enough to accomplish that goal by giving away public libraries.

His first gift was $300,000 to the former city of Allegheny in 1887. He followed with a $1 million library building in Oakland for the city of Pittsburgh in 1890, and the Carnegie Library opened five years later. Mr. Carnegie's first library in Braddock, which opened in 1889, originally was meant only for workers in his steel mill.

But there was a catch.

Writing to the mayor of Pittsburgh in 1890, he explained his philanthropic philosophy:

"… I am equally clear that unless a community is willing to maintain Public Libraries at the public cost, very little good can be obtained from them. Not to save me further expenditure therefore, but for the best interests of the city, I make it a condition that they shall be properly maintained by the city."

The city responded with a pledge to provide $40,000 a year for upkeep. This year, the city once again gave the library its required $40,000 -- a modest amount in these days of multimillion-dollar budgets, but one that has become a symbol in the library's campaign to preserve its services in financially tough times.

Carnegie's demand that the beneficiaries of his gifts guarantee their support was integral to his attitude about giving his money away, said Abigail A. Van Slyck, author of "Free to All: Carnegie Libraries and American Culture, 1890-1920."

"He wanted the people to feel in a very concrete way that the library was theirs and that they must show their support," said Dr. Van Slyck, professor of architecture at Connecticut College. "That was very important to him. Carnegie was building a model of philanthropy that was very local and specific."

To quote the Scottish immigrant: "The main consideration should be to help those who help themselves."

Taxpayer support

In listing its revenue sources for this year, the library pointed out that the city's contribution constitutes 0.02 percent of its $23.3 million budget.

Taxpayers, however, fund $17.6 million of the library budget through the Regional Asset District system, which allocates a portion of the sales tax in Allegheny County to assets like the library. The 44 community libraries located throughout the county that are not part of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh system share $5.6 million.

"Our system is chronically underfunded compared to other library systems around the country," Ms. Mistick said frequently during a series of town hall meetings this summer on the predicted deficit.

She cited the Cleveland Public Library as a model of public support. It serves a population that is about 100,000 people larger than Pittsburgh's through its central library downtown and 28 branches. The Carnegie Library now has 19 branches.

In 2008, Cleveland received $66.7 million in public funds, $27.9 million from city property taxes and $26.4 million from state taxes. Cleveland voters last year renewed the city tax levy for five years.

The Rand Corp. spent a year studying the future of the Carnegie Library and released its findings earlier this year. It found, based on 2005 figures, that among 15 urban library systems nationwide, the Carnegie ranked ninth in public support, receiving $56 per person in Pittsburgh. When the library's service area is expanded to include residents throughout Allegheny County, that figure drops to $21. County residents are permitted free use of the Carnegie Library.

"Though (the Carnegie Library) does not replace local library services for the entire county, it plays a significant role in serving it," the Rand study concluded.

In comparison, the Cleveland Public Library receives $146 per capita in funding.

With RAD's 2010 allocation frozen at this year's amount, the library will have less revenue, but under the RAD requirements must balance its budget. Taking its cue from the Rand study suggestion that the library create a "right-sized" system, it is closing or consolidating branches. Dr. Mistick said last week that the library operated more branches than the city's population warranted.

Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl last week offered little sympathy for the library's plight and criticized its plans to close and merge branches. Following his suggestion that an audit was needed before he would consider providing any further financial help, RAD agreed to consider ordering a performance audit. A decision is expected later this month.

The city was the library's primary financial supporter between 1895 and 1995, when RAD began. It continues to own many of the branch buildings, including the now-empty Allegheny Regional Branch on the North Side -- the site of Carnegie's first public library -- and the original branch in Lawrenceville, which opened in 1898. A modern replacement of the Allegheny library opened near the old building this summer.

The county also began contributing funds to the Carnegie in 1956, then bowed out for RAD.

While the statewide impact of library funding cuts in the new state budget passed last week is still unclear, the Free Library of Philadelphia initiated a series of service and staff cuts this year, said Sandra Horrocks, vice president of communications.

"We first tried emergency closing of branches, four to six [branches] a week earlier this year," she said, "until the state Legislature approved tax relief [for the city], but we're still not out of the woods."

Branches are now open only five days a week, and half are open Tuesdays-Saturdays to preserve Saturday hours. None was shut.

Philadelphia operates its library system on a $32 million budget. The state contributed $9.4 million this year, a figure likely to be significantly reduced in the new state spending plan.

Nationwide, library systems in such major cities as Chicago, Seattle, San Diego, Washington, D.C., and Dallas have furloughed staff, cut hours and trimmed services in this recession year, a trend that has also caught up with Andrew Carnegie's gift to Pittsburgh.

Sadie Gurman contributed to this report. Bob Hoover can be reached at 412-263-1634 or bhoover@post-gazette.com.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09286/1005054-53.stm?cmpid=entertainment.xml#ixzz0TqPjSvSg

[bruchaus]

Is it just me, or does that pic look like it was taken in the 80's?

Judging by the Pitt logo on the guy's sweatshirt it looks like today. I don't think anything in that picture really looks eighties.

[Johnland]

:haha: It's still a choke point though, regardless. The Squirrel Hill/Homestead exit area is probably one of the most poorly-designed highway structures in history. Eastbound or westbound, traffic must slow before or just after the tunnel to exit. And how about that Eastbound on-ramp in Squirrel Hill with the stop sign at the bottom, requiring either a slow creep or pedal to the metal double lane merge through exiting traffic to get in the eastbound lane! Think that might slow things down before entering a tunnel, and therefore back up traffic just a bit?? If there ever was an ultimate highway planning f-up, that takes the cake!

Too funny. I had to laugh remembering how one had to merge on the Parkway at that ramp. I think you put it perfectly. It really is sort of an art requiring nerves of steel, split-second timing and, of course, plenty of horsepower.

[pj3000]

Judging by the Pitt logo on the guy's sweatshirt it looks like today. I don't think anything in that picture really looks eighties.

Then that goes to show that you've been in Pittsburgh for too long. :)

[pj3000]

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/10/13/business/water_600.jpg


definitely a badass photo. In fact, I don't think anything gets more badass than Serbian priests and power plants... put them both in the same scene and look out!

[bruchaus]

Then that goes to show that you've been in Pittsburgh for too long. :)

I don't even live in Pittsburgh anymore!

[Evergrey]

I figured this casino would be a failure... it should've been placed along a suburban exit ramp... oh wait... we already have a casino along a suburban exit ramp (The Meadows)... in typical Pennsylvania fashion, this whole process was botched

also... :haha: @ at the Ravenstahl-ese in the secondary headline!


http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/money/21286158/detail.html

Team 4: Rivers Casino Not Making Enough Money

'That's Of Concern In A Lot Of Ways,' Pittsburgh Mayor Says

POSTED: 4:48 pm EDT October 13, 2009
UPDATED: 7:35 pm EDT October 13, 2009

PITTSBURGH -- With revenues far below expectations, the new Rivers Casino on Pittsburgh's North Shore is upping the ante with more giveaways to attract customers inside to play slot machines.

Team 4's Paul Van Osdol reported that the most recent financial report shows the casino made less money per slot machine than any other casino in Pennsylvania.

What's the reason? "That is what we're actually trying to figure out," Rivers Casino spokesman George Matta said.

In August, the casino celebrated its grand opening and owners projected a first-year take of $400 million. But statistics show that the casino has made just $34 million in its first two months, which projects to $203 million for the year -- only half of the estimated haul.

For the week ending Oct. 4, Philadelphia Park Casino earned $350 per slot machine, Presque Isle earned $233 per slot machine, the Meadows in Washington County earned $194 per slot machine and the Rivers made $161 per slot machine.

"Over the course of the first two months, I think revenues are lower than we expected them to be. That is of concern in a lot of ways," Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said.

Pittsburgh and Allegheny County are relying on casino money -- a projected $49 million for the city and $49 million for the county over five years -- for many projects.

Also, $7.5 million per year in casino money is expected to help fund construction of the Penguins' new arena, the Consol Energy Center. Another $6 million is needed for community development projects on the North Side and in the Hill District.

Maybe football fans will venture across the street from adjacent Heinz Field and spend their money at the Rivers.

"When the Steelers or (Pitt) Panthers score a touchdown, it's $5 free play throughout the house," Matta said.

A car is being given away every week as another promotion to attract more casino business.

"They took for granted people were just going to come because it was there. Maybe that's not the case. Maybe they need to do more marketing like the other casinos do," Ravenstahl said.

Casino officials are also hoping for table games to draw more customers, but legislation to legalize table games is still being debated in Harrisburg.

Earlier this month, Standard & Poor's downgraded the credit rating for casino affiliate Holdings Gaming Borrower from B to B-minus, citing concerns about what it calls the Rivers' "weak operating performance" and its ability to meet debt service payments if there's no change in fortunes.

[Wheelingman04]

The thing is ugly as hell anyways!!

[Brandon716]

It doesn't surprise me that its not doing as well as planned, casinos are a dime a dozen these days. If they are on every street corner of America they lose their novelty fast.

Maybe their traffic will pick up if the casino becomes a card playing casino and they get more than slots approved.

[AaronPGH]

I have a good feeling that their business will drastically increase with table games. Will it be enough to make up for the lack of business? Probably not completely.

I do think though they'll get a lot of the younger professional crowd there with table games. These are people who probably haven't stepped foot inside yet because of the lack of them (like my friends and I).

[Evergrey]

good luck!

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/cityregion/s_647878.html

Hotel, condos proposed in Mt. Washington

By Chris Togneri
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Buzz up!

Developers presented their vision for an eco-friendly hotel and condominium complex atop Mt. Washington at a city Planning Commission meeting Tuesday.

Where today sits a crumbling concrete edifice at the corner of Grandview Avenue and Wyoming Street, Lawrenceville architect Luke Desmone hopes to build a 110- to 115-room hotel with 50 to 55 condominiums wrapping around the hillside below.

The hotel would be LEED-certified, meaning it meets standards for environmentally sustainable construction by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"It's our intention to clearly have the best hotel," Desmone said during the presentation. A public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 10.

Downtown attorney Kevin McKeegan, who represents the Grandview Project developers, said he will ask the commission for a zoning change that would allow for uniform commercial and residential use of the property, which consists of several tracts. He also will ask the commission to allow the hotel tower to exceed limits set for the neighborhood.

The sloping structure would peak at 20 stories. Neighboring buildings are 10 to 12 stories tall.

Developer Steven Beemsterboer said construction would take about two years and cost $80 million to $90 million.

Developers are in negotiations with a hotel operator. Desmone said they are targeting a "four- to five-star chain."

The property now is home to the long-vacant Edge Restaurant.

"It is an eyesore," McKeegan said during the presentation. "I think the community would agree, it's something that needs to go."

Plans call for a large public plaza next to the Monongahela Incline overlooking Downtown. A five-story parking garage would be built under the plaza and hotel. A public walking trail would encircle the project, and in a second phase of construction, a "Grand Staircase" would lead from Station Square to Grandview Avenue.

After Desmone finished his presentation, about 10 Mt. Washington residents in the audience applauded.

"There is widespread community support," said Chris Beichner, executive director of Mt. Washington Community Development Corp. "We think this could be the next iconic structure in Pittsburgh."

[Evergrey]

mv9iohokLIk

[Grimacista]

It is tough to get to the casino. It is in that no-man's land behind Heinz Field and between the Ohio River & 65 to star with. Then add in all the construction that is going on around the stadiums & with the subway & the West End Circle. Plus, there are absolutely no signs telling you where to go. You can see the casino, it is just tough to get there - or to get out. I know my way around there pretty well but still got sucked down the wrong road leaving the parking garage after the Rib Fest.

Table games may really work out there. There is something about the excitement of table games that fits better in a casino in an urban environment than in a gigantic warehouse in the middle of nowhere.

[Brandon716]

^^^Is that referencing the butt-ugly 'green' building that has plants and trees growing out of it? I never liked that eco friendly design. Green is good, but having an organic chia-highrise would be a bruise on Pittsburgh's eye.

/just my opinion

[Evergrey]

It is tough to get to the casino. It is in that no-man's land behind Heinz Field and between the Ohio River & 65 to star with. Then add in all the construction that is going on around the stadiums & with the subway & the West End Circle. Plus, there are absolutely no signs telling you where to go. You can see the casino, it is just tough to get there - or to get out. I know my way around there pretty well but still got sucked down the wrong road leaving the parking garage after the Rib Fest.

Table games may really work out there. There is something about the excitement of table games that fits better in a casino in an urban environment than in a gigantic warehouse in the middle of nowhere.

The Meadows is laying off 10% of its workforce (100 employees)... obviously the market is over-saturated.

http://kdka.com/video/?id=63903@kdka.dayport.com

[gallacus]

It is tough to get to the casino. It is in that no-man's land behind Heinz Field and between the Ohio River & 65 to star with. Then add in all the construction that is going on around the stadiums & with the subway & the West End Circle. Plus, there are absolutely no signs telling you where to go. You can see the casino, it is just tough to get there - or to get out. I know my way around there pretty well but still got sucked down the wrong road leaving the parking garage after the Rib Fest.

I must say, I completely disagree with this statement. I've been to the Rivers Casino several times and, in my opinion, it was extremely easy to get to and parking was quick and painless. From my house in the South Side Slopes, it took me 10 minutes to get inside the casino. Get off the Duquesne Bridge exit ramp, go through 2 lights, and you're there. Leaving was just as easy.

The one area where I concede that the casino becomes a victim of its location is when there are big events at Heinz Field. Given the outrageous prices of some of the parking lots around Heinz Field, I decided to park at the casino to go to the Steelers game. The normal route I usually took was blocked off and I had to make several turns to follow the little "Casino Parking" signs to make my way to the garage. Getting out of the garage was just as difficult after the end of the game as they had you routed around a million little turns, and I accidentally ended up on the West End Bridge. But, I'd do it again any day, because it was FREE!

[gallacus]

On another note, I was driving past the new arena yesterday to check out the progress, and expected the buildings along the south side of Fifth Ave. to be renovated, or at least have renovations under way. I thought I remembered articles a while back discussing how the city was going to give funds to the owners of the buildings along 5th near the arena for facade upgrades so the area right around the arena didn't look so dumpy. Any word on what's happened to that idea? Has it been scrapped?

That Uniforms USA building is about the most hideous thing I've ever seen, as well as the few buildings around it!

[designer3d712]

I must say, I completely disagree with this statement. I've been to the Rivers Casino several times and, in my opinion, it was extremely easy to get to and parking was quick and painless. From my house in the South Side Slopes, it took me 10 minutes to get inside the casino. Get off the Duquesne Bridge exit ramp, go through 2 lights, and you're there. Leaving was just as easy.



I agree that it is very easy to get to and from the Casino. I think when the Casino is completely finished, then the crowds will pick up. I believe the Nightclub opens this month, or next, so the weekends will be busier. Also isn't there Conference/ballrooms on the second floor that are not complete yet? I believe with the completion and table games, that this place will pick up a little. I still think that one of their mistakes was not opening a temporary Casino.

[Brandon716]

I feel the same as others, the Rivers casino is centrally located and super, super easy to access. And for the many poor who love to gamble its even accessible to downtown's transit functions. Not sure I've ever heard that its location is an issue.

[PGHFan]

I am not surprised at the poor performance of the Rivers casino. I personally like it and find it to be probably the best looking casino of which I am familiar. It is far better that a fake showboat, Eiffel tower, or Manhattan skyline. The interior is also pleasant, with an open arrangement rather simply an endless staright banks of slots. But, those subjective judgments aside, the casino fails in other regards. The fundamental problem seems to be a misunderstanding of the casino’s primary clientele- older people. My guess is that for them, the only way they are willing to travel in the city is by tour bus. Even better signage will likely not address the fundamental fear of city driving. Further, older people are inundated with stories from local news media about how dangerous the city is. For example, my mother listens to local talk radio and is convinced that Pittsburgh is the nation’s crime capitol. There was a news story about a pickpocket at the casino and while at breakfast right after it appeared I was warned by the server that there was a major robbery problem at the Rivers and to avoid it. Other issues that to me mitigate the casino’s success include the high expense of gambling there. In Wheeling, the players club gives a free ten bucks for signing up, and an additional $15 for gambling on certain days of the week. To date, there is nothing similar at the Rivers. There are also no large prizes. The machines just don’t seem to pay off either. Finally the Rivers offers no “big” entertainment. A cabaret singer is not a particularly big draw on a weekend. In contrast, Wheeling offers some name entertainers, although I am not partial myself to Branson-like acts. I agree that the market for casinos may be saturated, but unless the Rivers is seen as a fairly inexpensive entertainment alternative that is easy to get to for older people, it won’t make it. I think the owners of the casino have tried to make it attractive for younger people, but have neglected their primary audience. Unless things change, we can hope that the Science Center can re-purpose the building a year from now.

[pj3000]

I don't think I've ever seen a greater collection of obese people than I did at the Rivers "Casino" two weeks ago.

[Evergrey]

http://kdka.com/local/Pittsburgh.Host.UN.2.1249892.html

Pittsburgh To Host UN World Environment Day

The eyes of the world focused on Pittsburgh last month when the G-20 Summit came to town; now the city is going to have another chance to shine in the international spotlight.

Local officials announced today that the city of Pittsburgh will be the North American host city for next year's United Nations World Environment Day.

The event will be held here on June 5, 2010.

According to the official World Environment Day website, the event is designed "to stimulate worldwide awareness of the environment and enhance political attention and action."

With media from around the world gathered in Pittsburgh to cover the G-20 Summit, local leaders said they were happy to have the chance to show off the city to the world.

From CNN to the Wall Street Journal, many of the headlines focusing on the city touted Pittsburgh's transformation.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

[bruchaus]

I think the casino should never have been built in the first place. It is a poor way to "fix" economic woes. All it does is take money out of the hands of people and put it in the hands of greedy casino owners and a greedy government. It is not the peoples fault that our government (city and state) cannot run things without getting in terrible debt.

I'm not a holy roller, but gambling ruins families. Some people will sya, yes but its a choice you make whether you want to gamble or not, much like drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes and I don't want those things to be outlawed. But for a government to rely on the income generated by a casino to fix their economic problems would be like a government legalizing drugs in order to get people addicted so they can fix the government's economic woes. I am 100% against table games and though I know it is inevitable, I wish we could go back in time to erase the casino in the first place. I think it was a dumb idea and I've been against it from the start.

[UrbaniDesDev]

I found the Casino to be quite pleasant. There were a ouple very nice looking bars and restaurants around also. There is no direct access to the river front and have to go around from thee front entrance.

All I know is I left $1600 richer!!!
a first for me

[hyperion1110]

This is pretty cool...

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/pittsburgh/s_648022.html


Foundation offers $1 million match to help renovate Point State Park fountain
By Jessica Turnbull
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Thursday, October 15, 2009

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/photos/2009-10-14/1015fountain1-a.jpg
The fountain at Point State Park doesn't just need a face-lift — it requires a major overhaul to ensure it's around for years to come.

That's the message at the center of a $1 million campaign to repair the focal point of the Pittsburgh skyline.

Riverlife said Wednesday that the Colcom Foundation would match up to $1 million raised before Nov. 24 by the newly formed Friends of the Fountain Campaign, said Stephan Bontrager, Riverlife director of communications.

"A $1 million match doesn't come along every day, so we hope it's a phenomenal incentive for people to pitch in, even if people are only able to give $25," he said.

John F. Rohe, vice president of philanthropy for Colcom Foundation, said the donation fulfills the foundation's goal to impact the community.

"It is simply a great privilege for the foundation to be involved in the efforts to restore and enhance this magnificent tribute to the heart of our city," he said.

The main 150-foot sprout was turned off in July and smaller "peacock" sprays will stop flowing in about a week. Antiquated electrical systems and damaged pumps need to be replaced to keep the fountain on for an extended period of time, although the main sprout was turned on for the G-20 summit and the Steelers' home opener, and again on Oct. 1 with pink water for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Bontrager said.

The fountain was built in 1974, but money ran dry on the project. This renovation will complete its original design. The plaza will be raised to make seating around the ring more comfortable, an inner rim will be installed to raise the basin water to create an overflow effect, and lighting will be installed, according to Riverlife.

Construction on the fountain should begin late next year and be completed in 2011, Bontrager said.

The work is the last phase of a $42 million, four-year renovation of Point State Park. Work is under way on promenades along the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, starting from the fountain, Bontrager said.

The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources owns Point State Park.

[Tombstoner]

I'm not a holy roller, but gambling ruins families. Some people will sya, yes but its a choice you make whether you want to gamble or not, much like drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes and I don't want those things to be outlawed. But for a government to rely on the income generated by a casino to fix their economic problems would be like a government legalizing drugs in order to get people addicted so they can fix the government's economic woes. I am 100% against table games and though I know it is inevitable, I wish we could go back in time to erase the casino in the first place. I think it was a dumb idea and I've been against it from the start.

I think there is an economic argument to make against the casino being the best use of space and the ethicality of the government relying on it, as you say, for revenue. But my parents are like a lot of middle-income retirees who find gambling a little exciting and a break from monotony of watching TV and walking the dog. They drive to Laughlin (the poor man's Vegas) in Nevada once a month from Arizona and probably drop $200-300 each time. They are relatively responsible gamblers and as I say, it really gives them something they look forward to (sometimes they're up a little money and forget the repeated losses). I do feel bad for all the irresponsible gamblers and their families, but I'll bet those folks make up a very small minority (probably under 5%) of people who go to these kinds of casinos. I think the analogy to casual drinker who goes to a bar every Friday night is fairer than the drug-addict to whom you allude.

[Black-n-Gold]

I think there is an economic argument to make against the casino being the best use of space and the ethicality of the government relying on it, as you say, for revenue. But my parents are like a lot of middle-income retirees who find gambling a little exciting and a break from monotony of watching TV and walking the dog. They drive to Laughlin (the poor man's Vegas) in Nevada once a month from Arizona and probably drop $200-300 each time. They are relatively responsible gamblers and as I say, it really gives them something they look forward to (sometimes they're up a little money and forget the repeated losses). I do feel bad for all the irresponsible gamblers and their families, but I'll bet those folks make up a very small minority (probably under 5%) of people who go to these kinds of casinos. I think the analogy to casual drinker who goes to a bar every Friday night is fairer than the drug-addict to whom you allude.

I think it's interesting that after all of the discussions and concern about introducing gambling to the state a few years ago we just passed a state budget that depends on adding table gaming and there was hardly a whimper.

I always thought about it in terms of net spending. Having a casino in town doesn't in itself increase the amount of money available to be spent in the Pittsburgh region so any spending at a casino is money that isn't being spent elsewhere (restaurants, services, etc.). I'm not so sure that is a good thing for our region. I guess from the state and local government perspective that money is now being spent in a place that pays a higher tax rate, but at what cost to other business?

[Grego43]

I think it's interesting that after all of the discussions and concern about introducing gambling to the state a few years ago we just passed a state budget that depends on adding table gaming and there was hardly a whimper.

I always thought about it in terms of net spending. Having a casino in town doesn't in itself increase the amount of money available to be spent in the Pittsburgh region so any spending at a casino is money that isn't being spent elsewhere (restaurants, services, etc.). I'm not so sure that is a good thing for our region. I guess from the state and local government perspective that money is now being spent in a place that pays a higher tax rate, but at what cost to other business?

If folks are going to play, better that the money stays in Pennsylvania as opposed to going to casinos in WV, NJ, or NY.

[Johnland]

If folks are going to play, better that the money stays in Pennsylvania as opposed to going to casinos in WV, NJ, or NY.

Yes, right. Better they play in PA. That is, of course, up until they move away to GA to NC or anywhere for a job. I know it's beyond total reason to expect the State to have thought of creating a better business friendly, job creating economic environment. But then, why bother? Those casinos are the answer. The dwindling few remaining residents can while away the days losing, er, spending, their money to the State. Such a smart State.

[Evergrey]

Way to kill the Pittsburgh thread, Brandon.

[JakeLiefer]

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_648486.html

Google may expand to South Side

"Google representatives have been here two or three times, indicating they are interested in leasing about 40,000 square feet," said Soffer, president of the Soffer Organization, which developed the South Side complex.

Jake Hubert, spokesman for Google, the world's most popular Internet search engine, said the company has nothing to announce at this time.

Isn't it considered somewhat poor business practice to announce a potential business partner's plans before they are willing to go public? Sounds like you're only asking for headaches by mentioning something still in negotiation. :shrug:

[hyperion1110]

Yes, right. Better they play in PA. That is, of course, up until they move away to GA to NC or anywhere for a job. I know it's beyond total reason to expect the State to have thought of creating a better business friendly, job creating economic environment. But then, why bother? Those casinos are the answer. The dwindling few remaining residents can while away the days losing, er, spending, their money to the State. Such a smart State.

I've heard it said that the business climate in PA is both good and bad: some say the taxes are high, some say they are low. I have no special knowledge in that matter. However, I would say that, in light of such disagreements, that there are both good and bad aspects of doing business in this state. However, given the relative strength of the Pittsburgh economy, the willingness of Pittsburgh businesses to add to their payrolls, and the relatively low unemployment rate, I would say that we're doing okay. Are there reforms needed? Surely. Does state gov't need to be less wasteful? Without a doubt! Is Pennsylvania doing particularly bad during the current recession? Well...no, not really. Things aren't great, but they could be much, much worse.

My point is that the situation is six of one and half dozen of another. Gambling is not a solution to revenue problems. However, it is reasonable to suppose that, if surrounded by states where gambling is legal, PA SHOULD move aggressively into that arena to ensure it is not losing tax revenue...that's only logical.

Upon reflection, I think Pittsburgh's economy, and, by extension, a good chunk of the state's economy, are even healthier than the numbers show. I mean, how can we have over 7% unemployment, yet claim to have 25K job openings? The answer is both simple and sad--simple because the job openings ARE there, but sad because much of the population is unqualified to fill the positions. I don't want to sound elitist, but the truth is that an out of work sheet metal worker is not going to be able to fill a nuclear engineering position at Westinghouse. Of late, we hear a considerable amount of rhetoric concerned with Pittsburgh changed economy. But, in truth, the economy is still changing...the job is far from complete.

I've got much love for yinzers...most of my family are such. But Pittsburgh's "new economy" is here, and the yinzers need to adapt. They are, slowly...but almost too slowly. In short, Pittsburgh, and Pennsylvania in general, needs a social revolution much more than a political one. We've gone from smoky to crisp, dirt to clean, and dead to vibrant. Now we need to go from vulgar to eloquent. Transplanting folks from around the country and the world into our beautiful city is a good start. But we need to change the hearts and minds of Pittsburgh. I mean, this city has a tremendous spirit, and an unrivaled history of innovation and artistic expression. And I think those qualities are still here, under the surface.

This city danced with the most powerful and prosperous in the world, back in its day. We just need to find our rhythm again.

[pj3000]

I've got much love for yinzers...most of my family are such. But Pittsburgh's "new economy" is here, and the yinzers need to adapt. They are, slowly...but almost too slowly. In short, Pittsburgh, and Pennsylvania in general, needs a social revolution much more than a political one. We've gone from smoky to crisp, dirt to clean, and dead to vibrant. Now we need to go from vulgar to eloquent. Transplanting folks from around the country and the world into our beautiful city is a good start. But we need to change the hearts and minds of Pittsburgh. I mean, this city has a tremendous spirit, and an unrivaled history of innovation and artistic expression. And I think those qualities are still here, under the surface.

This city danced with the most powerful and prosperous in the world, back in its day. We just need to find our rhythm again.

Good stuff. True and humorous.

Getting the collective western PA (southwestern PA, in particular) to go from "vulgar to eloquent" ain't an easy task, but like you said, a little outside help can go a long way in making this happen.

[Johnland]

My point is that the situation is six of one and half dozen of another. Gambling is not a solution to revenue problems. However, it is reasonable to suppose that, if surrounded by states where gambling is legal, PA SHOULD move aggressively into that arena to ensure it is not losing tax revenue...that's only logical.
Upon reflection, I think Pittsburgh's economy, and, by extension, a good chunk of the state's economy, are even healthier than the numbers show. I mean, how can we have over 7% unemployment, yet claim to have 25K job openings? The answer is both simple and sad--simple because the job openings ARE there, but sad because much of the population is unqualified to fill the positions. I don't want to sound elitist, but the truth is that an out of work sheet metal worker is not going to be able to fill a nuclear engineering position at Westinghouse. Of late, we hear a considerable amount of rhetoric concerned with Pittsburgh changed economy. But, in truth, the economy is still changing...the job is far from complete.

I've got much love for yinzers...most of my family are such. But Pittsburgh's "new economy" is here, and the yinzers need to adapt. They are, slowly...but almost too slowly. In short, Pittsburgh, and Pennsylvania in general, needs a social revolution much more than a political one. We've gone from smoky to crisp, dirt to clean, and dead to vibrant. Now we need to go from vulgar to eloquent. Transplanting folks from around the country and the world into our beautiful city is a good start. But we need to change the hearts and minds of Pittsburgh. I mean, this city has a tremendous spirit, and an unrivaled history of innovation and artistic expression. And I think those qualities are still here, under the surface.

This city danced with the most powerful and prosperous in the world, back in its day. We just need to find our rhythm again.

You've detailed the situation precisely.

If surrounding states are engaging in gambling as revenue sources, it almost forces PA to do likewise, or else lose that revenue. Sad that states are resorting to these low-brow measures, but if that's the reality, well then it is what it is. I just rail against the casinos because it's evidence that the Government has spent time, effort, and taxpayer money on casinos, rather than real solutions. (Again, I know I'm asking for too much to expect otherwise!)

As for lack of qualified workers, Pitt, CMU, Duquesne, Carlow, Catham, Point Park, etc are cranking out young workers, but they typically leave the region. There should be more of an effort to attract employers that would hire these grads, or least give them more reasons for staying. But instead, Pittsburgh 'exports' its young. Here in Tampa, there lots of young, bright, educated people in my office from Pittsburgh. Tampa's gain - Pittsburgh's loss.

And lastly, because I am from Pittsburgh and love the city and people, I want better for it. Eventually, I hope to return, weather and all.

[Wiz Khalifa]

I've heard it said that the business climate in PA is both good and bad: some say the taxes are high, some say they are low. I have no special knowledge in that matter. However, I would say that, in light of such disagreements, that there are both good and bad aspects of doing business in this state. However, given the relative strength of the Pittsburgh economy, the willingness of Pittsburgh businesses to add to their payrolls, and the relatively low unemployment rate, I would say that we're doing okay. Are there reforms needed? Surely. Does state gov't need to be less wasteful? Without a doubt! Is Pennsylvania doing particularly bad during the current recession? Well...no, not really. Things aren't great, but they could be much, much worse.

My point is that the situation is six of one and half dozen of another. Gambling is not a solution to revenue problems. However, it is reasonable to suppose that, if surrounded by states where gambling is legal, PA SHOULD move aggressively into that arena to ensure it is not losing tax revenue...that's only logical.

Upon reflection, I think Pittsburgh's economy, and, by extension, a good chunk of the state's economy, are even healthier than the numbers show. I mean, how can we have over 7% unemployment, yet claim to have 25K job openings? The answer is both simple and sad--simple because the job openings ARE there, but sad because much of the population is unqualified to fill the positions. I don't want to sound elitist, but the truth is that an out of work sheet metal worker is not going to be able to fill a nuclear engineering position at Westinghouse. Of late, we hear a considerable amount of rhetoric concerned with Pittsburgh changed economy. But, in truth, the economy is still changing...the job is far from complete.

I've got much love for yinzers...most of my family are such. But Pittsburgh's "new economy" is here, and the yinzers need to adapt. They are, slowly...but almost too slowly. In short, Pittsburgh, and Pennsylvania in general, needs a social revolution much more than a political one. We've gone from smoky to crisp, dirt to clean, and dead to vibrant. Now we need to go from vulgar to eloquent. Transplanting folks from around the country and the world into our beautiful city is a good start. But we need to change the hearts and minds of Pittsburgh. I mean, this city has a tremendous spirit, and an unrivaled history of innovation and artistic expression. And I think those qualities are still here, under the surface.

This city danced with the most powerful and prosperous in the world, back in its day. We just need to find our rhythm again.


I agree with most of your post, but am confused with the bolded section above. While it is humorous to throw digs at the proverbial yinzers in the city, I think people here are grossly over-representing their dwindling numbers and clout.

Many other cities, even NYC and LA have their "yinzers" aka: ignorant, sheltered, and undereducated masses. Its just they don't give them a specific funny name and celebrate them like "yinzer culture" (Pittsburghese) ect. Also, many cities have much larger immigration numbers of educated transients to make these groups even less influential in the grand scheme of things.

[JakeLiefer]

Town devastated by hospital closing
Saturday, October 17, 2009
By Jerome L. Sherman and Karamagi Rujumba, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
In the past half-century, Braddock has lost movie theaters, pharmacies, department stores, homes, thousands of industrial jobs and more than 80 percent of its population.

Yet yesterday's official announcement that UPMC plans to close the borough's 103-year-old hospital on Jan. 31 has stunned Braddock locals and elected officials, who had been seeing small but promising signs of economic renewal in recent years.

"No matter what, we've always had a hospital here," said Vicki Vargo, 52, executive director of the Braddock Carnegie Library and a resident of North Braddock. "I just can't imagine the community without a hospital."

Neither can many of the region's political leaders.

Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato called UPMC's plans "disappointing and unacceptable." On Monday, he and U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, Braddock Mayor John Fetterman and state Sen. Sean Logan plan to meet with the hospital system's executives, including President and CEO Jeffrey Romoff, to ask that the closure be taken "off the table."

UPMC officials said yesterday that the Braddock hospital has lost $27 million in the last six years and has seen a 21 percent drop in patient admissions from 2004 to this year.

Although he acknowledged the hospital's fiscal woes, Mr. Onorato argued that UPMC, as a recipient of significant sums of tax dollars, should not be in a position to unilaterally make a decision that could affect all of the Mon Valley, an area where Mr. Onorato has heavily focused economic redevelopment efforts.

He cited the county's ongoing projects like the $50 million renovation of the Rankin Bridge; the $15 million development of an apartment complex for senior citizens next to the hospital and the county's plans to market the old Carrie Furnace site for new development.

In recent months, the hospital has been putting finishing touches on a new entrance facing Braddock Avenue, a project that included $3 million in public money.

UPMC officials have promised to return the money, Mr. Onorato said.

Many Braddock residents believed such investments were part of a long-term commitment to the community.

"They're putting in new windows. How could they close?" Anita Esposto, who has worked at nearby Mele Brothers and Sister Florist for 25 years, asked her mother this week when she first heard rumors of the hospital's possible demise. "It doesn't make any sense."

In a dozen interviews along and near Braddock Avenue yesterday, people praised the convenience of having a hospital within walking distance.

Ms. Esposto said she takes her mother there once a month for blood tests. Nancy Ernst, 45, an administrative assistant at the 4 Kids Learning Center, said she regularly goes for asthma treatment. James Manns, 62, ended up in the emergency room two months ago, after he fell from his bike and broke two ribs.

"Where do we go now? Where do you go if you don't have your own transportation?" said Ms. Vargo.

UPMC's news release said many locals were already going elsewhere. Just one out of five Braddock-area residents visits the hospital for inpatient care, it said.

The shutdown will affect 652 employees at the hospital, including 70 residents of the Braddock ZIP code, but UPMC spokesman Paul Wood said most will be offered jobs at other facilities in the vast hospital system.

The announcement shocked many employees. Some were angry that they learned of the closure through the media.

"I cried," said Nancy Zagorac, 53, whose husband told her on the phone as she drove to work yesterday morning. "I was devastated."

Ms. Zagorac, who works in housekeeping, described the mood at the hospital as somber.

"You would think somebody passed away," she said. "It's like a family here. Everybody knows everybody."

According to a history of Braddock written by Bob Grom, of the borough's Heritage Health Foundation, Braddock General Hospital opened in the former Mills mansion on a knoll overlooking Braddock Avenue on June 27, 1906.

Starting with just 30 beds, the hospital expanded quickly to meet the needs of a growing industrial town. Its west wing opened in 1911, and the east wing opened six years later, bringing the total number of beds to 130.

The hospital also started its own nursing school.

In 1935, the Sisters of Divine Providence signed an agreement to run the institution.

UPMC purchased the faltering Braddock Medical Center in 1996, and it has invested about $30 million in the 277,000-square-foot facility since then, including the new $8 million facade that hasn't even had a ribbon cutting yet.

Many people lament the potential loss of yet another gathering spot in a community with dozens of abandoned buildings along its main strip.

UPMC has promised to maintain many of its outreach programs, including the Steps to a Healthy Community project, Health for Life summer camp, the UPMC Braddock Dental Center and various youth mentoring and senior housing initiatives.

It was unclear what would happen to a YMCA on the hospital grounds. And Braddock likely will lose the hospital's coffee and gift shop, run by the Cot Club charitable organization.

Every day, local retirees visit the shop for $2.85 deli sandwiches and warm conversation.

"It just means so much to the community," said Philomena Stamerra, 77, president of the Cot Club, as she sat on a stool at the shop, wearing her red UPMC volunteer shirt.

Ms. Stamerra gave birth to all 10 of her children in UPMC Braddock, and she raised them in a three-story home on Carey Avenue. She lived in that same house until three years ago, when she moved to White Oak.

"It was wonderful. This was the best place in the world to raise your children," she said of Braddock in its heyday, when it boasted a population of 20,000. "You didn't have to go anywhere to buy anything."

Last year, according to census figures, the borough's population was 2,667.

Tony Buba, a filmmaker who has been documenting Braddock since 1972, said his 88-year-old mother still makes daily visits to the hospital coffee shop.

"This is really a surprise," Mr. Buba said of the hospital closure. "This could be the most devastating of all the losses."



Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09290/1006247-56.stm#ixzz0UEkTlOJL



It's unfortunate that the Braddock Hospital has to close. While it's not regarded as a 'good' hospital, it served the community and was an anchor in a town where so many other businesses left. I would have never guessed that UPMC would shut it down, after doing a serious renovation on the front of the building a few months ago. And I think everyone expected them to stick around, especially with building a $15 million senior care center right next to it that was expected to feed into the hospital.

[George Woods]

Plus, casinos are "on every corner" in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, but the legislation that legalized casinos in Pennsylvania only allows for one in Pittsburgh. And while I'm not a fan of Pittsburgh having a casino, I know a lot of people who are going there now, instead of to West Virginia like they used to.

[Brandon716]

Okay, this thread has been pruned to get rid of the crazy discussion that got started, and as a Mod I'm warning anyone that if it goes back off-topic the posts will be deleted.

All I feel like saying is that it is wrong for people to characterize the Yinzer crowd in Pittsburgh the way it was portrayed, and many cities across the nation have populations that aren't considered "educated."

Now, lets have a civil discussion from here on out... And don't screw it up this time.

[cdc]

"oops..." says the URA


South Side's growth may be costly
URA might have to pay developer to waive restriction on new apartments
Sunday, October 18, 2009
By Mark Belko, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The city's Urban Redevelopment Authority may be forced to compensate a Columbus developer in order to get the company to waive a seven-year-old rental restriction -- one that URA officials negotiated -- now standing in the way of plans to build more apartments on the South Side.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09291/1006448-53.stm#ixzz0UILoS7Se

[ColDayMan]

From Mr. Fred Rogers to Mr. Lynn Aloysius Belvedere, Pittsburgh delights visitors with an eclectic mix of old white men, frieswiches, and the incomparable Dick's Sporting Goods.

So Nakama'on down to Pittsburgh, the Minsk of the American Coal Hills. The Shanxi of the Keystone State. Take that Inner Mongolia! They got the Monongahela!

It is ready to Steel your Phantom (Revenge), Jack your Rabbit, Thunder your Bolt, and King your Kahuna!

From Miamisburg(h), with love.

[dugdogmaster]

:previous: :shrug:

[ColDayMan]

Well, you're unpolitically correct. You'll get it.

[PA Pride]

From Mr. Fred Rogers to Mr. Lynn Aloysius Belvedere, Pittsburgh delights visitors with an eclectic mix of old white men, frieswiches, and the incomparable Dick's Sporting Goods.

So Nakama'on down to Pittsburgh, the Minsk of the American Coal Hills. The Shanxi of the Keystone State. Take that Inner Mongolia! They got the Monongahela!

It is ready to Steel your Phantom (Revenge), Jack your Rabbit, Thunder your Bolt, and King your Kahuna!

From Miamisburg(h), with love.

Ok. Some of those we're pretty good. But others.... "eclectic mix of old white men?" :sly: You're forgetting about our other demographic: YOUNG white men, like myself.

And Dick's Sporting Goods? Not even from Pittsburgh. We bought that shit from western NY.

I know what i'm getting your ass for christmas. A yappin yinzer:
http://www.yappinyinzers.com/

[ColDayMan]

As long as I can have a delicious trendy slice of cake from Shadyside, I'll be all good and so will Pittsburgh. And your glorious donuts in Aliquippa with Tina the cashier!

[hyperion1110]

I agree with most of your post, but am confused with the bolded section above. While it is humorous to throw digs at the proverbial yinzers in the city, I think people here are grossly over-representing their dwindling numbers and clout.

Many other cities, even NYC and LA have their "yinzers" aka: ignorant, sheltered, and undereducated masses. Its just they don't give them a specific funny name and celebrate them like "yinzer culture" (Pittsburghese) ect. Also, many cities have much larger immigration numbers of educated transients to make these groups even less influential in the grand scheme of things.

LOL...I hope I'm not continuing the off-topic discussion. I didn't see any of the posts that were deleted. So, my apologies ahead of time if I'm rehashing something.

Anyhow, when I mean yinzers, I think Pittsburgh in the "greater" sense. From personal observation, I think much of the city is anything but the typically yinzer. We're educated and cultured for the most part. But the city only represents about 15 % of the metro population. All of those folks who moved out into the 'burbs in the 70s and 80s, and their kids, don't seem to have kept up with the program. I don't know...it's hard to explain. Whatever it is that makes Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, our zeitgeist, to use the German term, has fractured; there seem to be two "Pittsburghs"...one that has transformed itself for the better, which has its locus in the city, and the other is the more traditional, working-class mindset that is prevalent in the outer suburbs (not that there is anything wrong with being working class...that's my heritage too!). Personally, I think there is a bit of generalized unease in this city. I think people are afraid that if they change too much, or they change too many things, they'll lose their essential character. Because of this, many have stuck to their traditions, dogmatically asserting that the way their parents and grandparents did it is the way it should be. Look at the frightening power of some unions in this city, like the Port Authority, who are so afraid of losing their bargaining positions that they would rather cripple the public transit system than accent reasonable compensation standards. And don't forget the great democratic machine in this city. Anymore, it doesn't matter what a candidate's qualifications and policies are...they are electable, and, indeed, elected, by dint of being Democrats. And that, my friends, is not only naive but dangerous. That, I think, is the kind of revolution that is needed in Pittsburgh.

Any work done honestly is equal in dignity, whether its coal mining or computer engineering. But we're not, for the most part, coal miners and steel workers. We're not better than we were, just different. It's no betrayal of our heritage to admit that fact, and reevaluate our mores. Quite the contrary...we honor our past by acknowledging its impact on the present and making our future uniquely Pittsburgh-esque.

Just my two cents, though.

[UrbaniDesDev]

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e235/UrbaniDesDev/GoogleinPittsburgh.jpg

[dugdogmaster]

Well, you're unpolitically correct. You'll get it.

I did, the third time reading through it.:haha:

[George Woods]

LOL...I hope I'm not continuing the off-topic discussion. I didn't see any of the posts that were deleted. So, my apologies ahead of time if I'm rehashing something.

Anyhow, when I mean yinzers, I think Pittsburgh in the "greater" sense. From personal observation, I think much of the city is anything but the typically yinzer. We're educated and cultured for the most part. But the city only represents about 15 % of the metro population. All of those folks who moved out into the 'burbs in the 70s and 80s, and their kids, don't seem to have kept up with the program. I don't know...it's hard to explain. Whatever it is that makes Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, our zeitgeist, to use the German term, has fractured; there seem to be two "Pittsburghs"...one that has transformed itself for the better, which has its locus in the city, and the other is the more traditional, working-class mindset that is prevalent in the outer suburbs (not that there is anything wrong with being working class...that's my heritage too!). Personally, I think there is a bit of generalized unease in this city. I think people are afraid that if they change too much, or they change too many things, they'll lose their essential character. Because of this, many have stuck to their traditions, dogmatically asserting that the way their parents and grandparents did it is the way it should be. Look at the frightening power of some unions in this city, like the Port Authority, who are so afraid of losing their bargaining positions that they would rather cripple the public transit system than accent reasonable compensation standards. And don't forget the great democratic machine in this city. Anymore, it doesn't matter what a candidate's qualifications and policies are...they are electable, and, indeed, elected, by dint of being Democrats. And that, my friends, is not only naive but dangerous. That, I think, is the kind of revolution that is needed in Pittsburgh.

Any work done honestly is equal in dignity, whether its coal mining or computer engineering. But we're not, for the most part, coal miners and steel workers. We're not better than we were, just different. It's no betrayal of our heritage to admit that fact, and reevaluate our mores. Quite the contrary...we honor our past by acknowledging its impact on the present and making our future uniquely Pittsburgh-esque.

Just my two cents, though.



^ Bravo.

[guyFROMtheBURGH]

A question on the update of the new building signs in downtown. When is the ReedSmith sign being hoisted up? Also, when is the Mellon sign going to be exchanged for BNY Mellon?

[edncc1701d]

Downsized but still on track...

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_649452.html#

Oakland project expected by spring

By Sam Spatter
FOR THE TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Friday, October 23, 2009

After nearly two years of delays, developer Frank Gustine Jr. says he plans on beginning a major development in the city's tight Oakland office market by spring.

His project — called the Oakland Portal because of its location on a site bounded by Forbes, Craft and Fifth avenues — has been reduced in size, but still is geared toward meeting demand for office buildings.

"We have talked with at least four hotel developers interested in the project, and we are getting requests for office space," said Gustine of FWG Realty in Green Tree.

The original $150 million development has been reduced to about 350,000 square feet from more than 1 million square feet of office and commercial space, on six acres of land from 10 acres. Gustine said he was unable to secure ownership of the Dialysis Clinic Inc. building on Forbes near Fifth, an office building on Forbes owned by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and a University of Pittsburgh-owned house.

Once financing is in place, and Gustine expects that to happen soon, plans for the development could move ahead, he said.

The current plan calls for three office buildings, a parking garage and a hotel. A garage and three vacant houses are demolished.

"The hotel would not be a full-service hotel, but one that is limited with upscale service," he said.

The garage would be located in the middle of the complex with a driveway within the site connecting Fifth to Forbes, Gustine said.

Oakland has the lowest office vacancy rate in the region at 7.6 percent, up slightly from the 6.8 percent at the end of the second quarter, according to the third quarter 2009 Grubb & Ellis Office Trends Report.

The overall office vacancy rate for the Pittsburgh region is 15.5 percent, the report said.

The original plan called for a 200-to-250-room hotel, a 1,500 car parking garage and residential condominiums. The complex would have been built during seven years.

"I am also talking with individuals interested in joining the development team," Gustine said. They include Ed Pope, a local architect and FWG Realty partner, Lou Molnar and Sol Gross. Also included is the family of the late Bill Baierl.

The site is located near Carlow University, UPMC Magee-Womens hospital and UPMC Montefiore hospital.

Sam Spatter can be reached at sspatter@tribweb.com or 412-320-7843.

[themaguffin]

From Mr. Fred Rogers to Mr. Lynn Aloysius Belvedere, Pittsburgh delights visitors with an eclectic mix of old white men, frieswiches, and the incomparable Dick's Sporting Goods.

So Nakama'on down to Pittsburgh, the Minsk of the American Coal Hills. The Shanxi of the Keystone State. Take that Inner Mongolia! They got the Monongahela!

It is ready to Steel your Phantom (Revenge), Jack your Rabbit, Thunder your Bolt, and King your Kahuna!

From Miamisburg(h), with love.

:cheers:

[Johnland]

Downsized but still on track...

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_649452.html#

Oakland project expected by spring

By Sam Spatter
FOR THE TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Friday, October 23, 2009

After nearly two years of delays, developer Frank Gustine Jr. says he plans on beginning a major development in the city's tight Oakland office market by spring.

His project — called the Oakland Portal because of its location on a site bounded by Forbes, Craft and Fifth avenues — has been reduced in size, but still is geared toward meeting demand for office buildings.

"We have talked with at least four hotel developers interested in the project, and we are getting requests for office space," said Gustine of FWG Realty in Green Tree.

The original $150 million development has been reduced to about 350,000 square feet from more than 1 million square feet of office and commercial space, on six acres of land from 10 acres. Gustine said he was unable to secure ownership of the Dialysis Clinic Inc. building on Forbes near Fifth, an office building on Forbes owned by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and a University of Pittsburgh-owned house.

Once financing is in place, and Gustine expects that to happen soon, plans for the development could move ahead, he said.

.

That's quite a reduction - 65% down!