A message from Councilman Bobby Wilson
Welcome to our April newsletter! With spring in full bloom, it’s a great time to celebrate growth, new beginnings, and the progress our district continues to make. I’m excited to share some recent highlights and accomplishments from my office, as we remain committed to keeping the D1 community informed, engaged, and connected. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and X to stay up to date on the latest news, events, and opportunities in District 1!
District 1 Projects
Planning/Design
Lookout Playground Improvements *NEW
Brighton Heights, California Avenue & Termon Intersection Improvement
Baytree Street Traffic Calming
Cowley-Goettmann Park
East Ohio Streetscape
Spring Garden Park/Michael Flynn Field - DESIGN SURVEY OPEN UNTIL MAY 15TH
Swindell Bridge
Baytree Street Traffic Calming
Marmaduke Park
Strip District Mobility Projects
Under Construction
Riverview Park Landslide remediation
North Avenue Signals & Safety Project
Riverview Playground
Allegheny Riverfront Park
Legislative Initiative
Vape Shop (UPDATE)
I wanted to share an update on Bill 2025-2250, which I introduced last September to address the growing number of vape shops in our neighborhoods and better protect young people. The legislation creates a new zoning category for businesses whose principal retail activity, based on product inventory, display, and marketing, is the sale of vaping products, CBD, and similar items, ensuring these uses are more clearly regulated moving forward.
After working closely with the City Planning Department and other stakeholders, the bill was amended to strengthen and clarify key provisions. The legislation would prevent new vape shops from opening within 1,000 feet of primary and secondary schools, helping reduce overconcentration and keeping these businesses away from areas where children gather.
The bill was reviewed by the Planning Commission and received a unanimous positive recommendation. It has now returned to City Council, where a public hearing and final vote are expected within the next few months.
I encourage you and your neighbors to share your thoughts. Public input is an important part of this process. More information, including how to submit comments or sign up to speak, can be found in the tab below.
Broken & Fixable
I want to keep our community informed about ongoing efforts to address the Kenzig Avenue landslide near Goehring Street, which has been impacted by a persistent stormwater issue. The Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections is actively coordinating with Pittsburgh Water to resolve a leaking condition that has contributed to instability in the area. Technical drawings have already been completed, and the proposed plan will redirect stormwater safely by routing it beneath the sidewalk into a newly constructed catch basin. This solution will better manage runoff and reduce pressure on the hillside, and I look forward to construction happening over summer. My office will continue to share updates as progress is made.
Monthly Community Meetings
We always value connecting with our neighbors, and now we’re excited to share some photos from the community meetings our office has been attending. Thank you to everyone who continues to engage and share their ideas. We’re listening and working together to make our neighborhoods stronger.
Pittsburgh 2050 Comprehensive Plan
Pittsburgh is evolving, and our city is creating a single, comprehensive plan that includes all 90 neighborhoods. This is a unique opportunity to shape changes that benefit everyone.
Over the summer, you helped us celebrate Pittsburgh’s strengths, shared your thoughts on the tough choices shaping our future, and explored scenario planning with us in October. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to provide feedback on a preferred land use direction this April and to review the plan’s recommendations in early June. Click the photo below for more meeting dates.
One Roof Housing Resource Fair
I want to make Pittsburgh residents aware of an upcoming opportunity to access housing support and resources in the city.
On Friday, May 1, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, several trusted partners, including RentHelpPGH, ACTION Housing, the Allegheny County Housing Authority, TREK, and Allegheny County, will host the One Roof Housing Resource Fair at Commonwealth Charter Academy in the Waterfront, located in the former Macys building.
This event will bring multiple affordable housing providers together in one place, making it easier for residents to explore available options and begin the signup process onsite. Attendees can also connect with organizations offering legal assistance, financial guidance, and other supportive services aimed at helping individuals and families achieve and maintain housing stability.
I encourage anyone in need of housing support, or those looking to learn more about available resources, to attend.
How to Buy and Rehab Pittsburgh Land Bank Houses
Join the Pittsburgh Land Bank to find out how to purchase a single-family home through their Pilot Residential Rehab Program. Staff will walk you through the application process and answer your questions. For more information and to sign up, visit the tab below.
When: Thursday April 16th
Session 1: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Session 2: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
**please note the content will be the same in both sessions.
Where: Pittsburgh Hispanic Development Corporation
1555 Broadway Ave Second Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
Who should attend: Homebuyers • Contractors • Developers
URA's Façade Grants
I want to make sure our local business owners and property holders are aware that the Urban Redevelopment Authority has opened applications for its Commercial Facade Grant Program, with a May 29th deadline. This is a great opportunity to improve storefronts and strengthen our commercial corridors, with grants covering up to 75% of renovation costs, up to $20,000. While applicants must cover project costs upfront, this program can provide meaningful support, and additional low interest financing may also be available. I strongly encourage eligible members of our community to take advantage of this investment in our neighborhoods. For more information on how to apply please use the tab below:
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