Editor’s note: We invited 13 regional leaders to give their thoughts on how to revitalize and reinvigorate Downtown Pittsburgh. Despite numerous emails back and forth with the communications staff of Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey from March 15 to April 20, the Mayor did not offer his thoughts on Downtown Pittsburgh. The responses of 12 other leaders follow.
SARA INNAMORATO, ALLEGHENY COUNTY EXECUTIVE
My campaign focused on building an Allegheny County for all, and that means building a Downtown for all — one that is safe, welcoming, diverse, and connected. It means moving beyond just thinking about a pre-pandemic Golden Triangle to reimagine a new kind of Downtown.
The next iteration of Downtown should be vibrant around the clock. Right now, people are going to sports, theater, concerts, and trade shows in big numbers again. Tourism numbers are back to pre-pandemic levels, and that is great news. But we need to expand the livability of Downtown, so it isn’t just a place where people come and go, but a place where people feel welcome and safe all of the time. We want a Downtown where parents feel comfortable pushing a stroller and students of all ages can safely move between school, home, and socializing. We need to create an environment where small businesses can thrive, and outdoor spaces that are activated to create a real sense of community.
Part of rebuilding a sense of safety for all Downtown will be compassionately addressing homelessness. We have street teams out every day to support our unhoused population. But it is evident that we need more affordable housing options so people have somewhere stable and safe to move. Instead of just focusing on expanding shelter capacity, one of the top priorities of my administration will be working with the county Department of Human Services and other partners to create long-term affordable housing solutions for people looking to leave shelters. We want to work with everyone across the county to embrace more housing solutions.
The challenges are real but at a scope that are solvable if we work together and think creatively about how to build a Downtown for all.
JEREMY WALDRUP, PRESIDENT & CEO, PITTSBURGH DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP
In Downtown Pittsburgh, amidst the sweeping changes driven by evolving work trends and technology, we find ourselves in the “messy middle” — a realm of ambiguity and unforeseen hurdles, where traditional stability falters and complexities arise.
Yet, the messy middle isn’t a place to shy away from — it’s where innovation thrives. It sparks collaboration, ignites creativity, and offers all of us a chance to make history — right here, right now.
Today, Downtown Pittsburgh is seeing unprecedented investment by corporate, philanthropic, and civic leaders. With bold, new initiatives like the transformation of public spaces and streetscapes, public art, and community-driven events, we’re revitalizing vacant spaces and affirming our status as a premier cultural destination. We’re seeing inspiring developments make headlines, like Emerald City in the Pitt Building on Smithfield Street, a community hub dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs and professionals.
Although our journey through the messy middle is far from over, it’s brimming with exciting opportunities for people to get involved. We’re looking to our forward-thinking leaders to advocate and innovate, as well as our neighbors to dine and shop and fill our streets, stores and restaurants with vibrant energy. We need swift, comprehensive approaches to meet growing housing needs while providing the best possible support for those experiencing homelessness. We are looking for volunteers who are willing to roll up their sleeves and help us “redd up” Downtown to welcome a busy season of packed stadiums and favorite festivals.
Our vision for Downtown isn’t just rhetorical — it’s an open invitation for everyone who cares about the heart of our city to become a catalyst for change. Together, let’s redefine what it means to be Downtown — as a destination you want to keep coming back to, and as a neighborhood you’re proud to call home.
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