Statement from Stefani Pashman, CEO, Allegheny Conference on Community Development on One Year of Progress in Downtown Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH - October 29, 2025 - "One year ago, we stood together to launch a bold, shared vision for Downtown Pittsburgh that was rooted in partnership, possibility, and progress. Today, we mark a meaningful checkpoint on that journey.

The Allegheny Conference joins its partners in its commitment to Downtown Pittsburgh's continued success. Investments in places like Market Square, Arts Landing, and Point State Park are going to create vibrant hubs that are the heart of Downtown, transforming public spaces into destinations that invite connection and community.

Downtown Pittsburgh holds a significant place in the history and future of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. Dating back to the 1940s, the Conference played a foundational role in shaping the city's core-most notably by helping to establish Point State Park and sparking vital business investment in the Golden Triangle. This legacy of leadership and vision has continued, and just one year ago, the Conference brought together more than 40 partners, including representatives from the city and county, to collaboratively reimagine the future of Downtown Pittsburgh. The dedication and collaboration among all these partners are what makes this month's one-year milestone especially meaningful.

The Market Square Modernization Project, led by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, continues to progress on time and on budget, representing a key pillar of Downtown's revitalization. In parallel, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust's Arts Landing initiative, enhancements at Point State Park, and the creative reimagining of other public spaces like RiverLife's Shore Thing are all contributing to a more vibrant, welcoming downtown that attracts residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

Thanks to the critical work of the County Executive's office, more than 500 people have transitioned from homeless shelters or encampments into affordable housing through the county's 500 in 500 program. The city, nonprofit, and corporate partners have worked together on progressing a safe and clean Downtown. Mixed-use developments are moving forward, creating or preserving nearly 1,000 residential units - one-third affordable. This collective work has been bolstered by the leadership of Governor Shapiro and Secretary Rick Siger, who join regional partners in helping Pittsburgh successfully compete in the global economy.

The Allegheny Conference remains focused on convening and aligning stakeholders-ensuring that vision, investment, and action move in lockstep. Our role is to sustain momentum, fill gaps, and help ensure that revitalization reflects the priorities of the entire region. Downtown revitalization requires ensuring sustainable funding through existing programs like the Downtown-focused LERTA on the local level and creative solutions at the state level.

As we look ahead to milestones like the 2026 NFL Draft, we're preparing to showcase a Downtown that reflects Pittsburgh's best. But we know this is just one moment in a multi-year journey. Our vision for Downtown Pittsburgh remains strong - creating a destination for living, working, and cultural experiences - built for the future and built for Pittsburghers."

You can revisit our full Downtown Revitalization Vision Plan on our website and learn more about progress in Downtown Pittsburgh at IndexPGH.com .

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Media Contact: Kristen Wishon, [email protected]