MAYOR LAUNCHES SMALL BUSINESS BICYCLE RACK PROGRAM

400 Bike Parking Spaces Created Through Taking Care of Business Districts Program and Partnership with Bike Pittsburgh

(PITTSBURGH) October 29, 2009

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, along with Bike Pittsburgh, this morning officially launched his Small Business Bicycle Rack Program by installing the first bike rack during a press event in front of Enrico Biscotti, located at 2022 Penn Ave. in the Strip.

The Small Business Bike Rack Program was created through a collaboration of the Mayor's Taking Care of Business Districts Program (TCOB) and Bike Pittsburgh. TCOB aims to revitalize business districts through targeting City services and providing resources for small business owners and the residents who frequent those neighborhood lifelines.

"Through TCOB we continue to revitalize our neighborhood lifelines and are helping small businesses grow and thrive by providing the amenities they need to attract customers," Ravenstahl said. "I want to thank Bike Pittsburgh and our state legislators for their partnership that will provide the amenities our businesses and residents deserve."

Bike Pittsburgh, with funding support from Richard King Mellon Foundation and William Benter Foundation, has donated 100 racks. The City has purchased an additional 100 bike racks through a competitive bid process and with TCOB funding, bringing the total number of bike parking spaces in the City to 400.

"This program also addresses the City's bicycle initiatives, which include working with business districts to seek creative ways to increase availability of bicycle parking and increasing bicycle facilities to accommodate commuters," said Ravenstahl. "As the City continues to add bike lanes and shared lane markings, more and more City residents will choose the bicycle as a safe, convenient, and green way to get to work, shop, and visit entertainment destinations."

Last year, the Mayor's Neighborhoods Initiatives Department sent out a ranking form and asked Mainstreet Managers and Chambers of Commerce to let them know what streetscape items they wanted in their area; bike racks were a key desired item. The TCOB team will install 100 bike racks in areas that have submitted requests - Strip, Bloomfield, Southside, Polish Hill, Squirrel Hill, Carrick, Lawrenceville, Friendship, Garfield, Shadyside, Brookline - and will install more upon request and evaluation.

Businesses can request bike racks online as well via the City's website. The City's Bike Ped Coordinator and the Department of Public Works will assess the requested site and install if applicable.

"Bike racks are one of the most important indicators of a bike-friendly city," said Bricker, executive director of Bike Pittsburgh. "They do more than provide support and security to bicycles; they act as a visual cue that bicycles are a welcome mode of transportation in our City. Bike Pittsburgh is grateful for the funding provided by the Richard King Mellon and William Benter Foundations, and thankful to the City for its partnership with installation and placement. Working together, we will make Pittsburgh one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country."

Out of three competitive bids submitted, Dero Bike Rack Co., from Minneapolis, MN came in at the lowest with $251 per rack as opposed to the other bids of $475 and $665. The Dero bike racks will follow the Three Rivers design of the Bike Pittsburgh donated racks so that designs are consistent throughout City. Public Works Crews will install the bike racks. The total cost of the bike rack program is $25,100 and will be paid for from the TCOB budget which consists of $850,000 in grant money from the state Department of Community and Economic Development.

Other "hard" items that have been requested by business districts include: street trees, trash/recycling receptacles, street banners, and increased lighting.

"Many of these items are up in our neighborhoods right now," Ravenstahl said. "In Lawrenceville, we fabricated and installed neighborhood banners, in Uptown we are working to improve lighting, and in Carrick we installed no littering signs to respond to their concerns about the presence of litter."

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MAYOR CALLS COMMUNITY MEETING ON CLOSING OF LIBRARIES

(PITTSBURGH) October 19, 2009

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he will be holding a community meeting at 11 a.m., Sat., Oct. 24 at St. Mary's Lower Lyceum located at 321 45th Street in Lawrenceville in order to hear residents' concerns regarding the impact posed by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh's board's decision to close four City libraries.

The Mayor has invited the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh's Board of Trustees, as well as Director Barbara Mistick to the meeting.

"I have spoken with residents from all impacted communities and have answered as many questions as I can in regard to the board's decisions," Ravenstahl said. "Residents deserve to have all of their questions answered concerning these very unfortunate circumstances."

The City of Pittsburgh is supportive of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and acknowledges the value the library offers our residents for both personal and professional development. The City has long been a financial supporter of the library. From 1895 to 1995, the City was the library's primary financial supporter.

In 1995, the Regional Asset District system (RAD) was formed to support library, parks, and cultural programs through proceeds from a portion of the Allegheny County sales tax. Of that funding, from City and County tax payers, the library received $17.6 million for their budget in 2009, and is currently slated to receive the same in 2010. The City contributes an additional $40,000 from our operating budget to the library system each year.

"During these difficult economic times, government, businesses and nonprofits alike must find ways to do more with less," Ravenstahl said. "In response to the library board's decision to reduce staff, library hours, increase fines and close and merge branches, I have called for an independent audit of the library by RAD and have asked that all libraries remain open until that audit is complete. It is important that the community understands how library dollars are spent in order to figure out the best way to keep the libraries open."

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MAYOR KICKS OFF FALL PLANTING SEASON WITH TREE SEEDLING GIVE-AWAY

(PITTSBURGH) October 16, 2009...Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that during the week of October 19th, the City will be providing 1,500 free tree seedlings to City residents, kicking off the fall planting season by encouraging residents to register their planted tree as part of TreeVitalize's "Trees Count" program.

The week will kick-off Monday with the Mayor handing out seedlings from 11:30 to 12 noon at the portico of the City-County Building. Residents can also receive the seedlings at one of four Citiparks Farmers' Market locations.

"We're encouraging residents to pick up a free tree seedling and do their part to make Pittsburgh an even more greener, livable City," Ravenstahl said. "Planting a tree in your yard is the easiest and best thing to do to improve the environment through enhanced air quality and the mitigation of storm water run off."

The free seedlings are appropriately sized for a yard and will be given away on a "first come, first served" basis, one per resident. The donation is generously supported by the Shade Tree Commission, Friends of the Pittsburgh Urban Forest, and Eilser's Nursery.

The Mayor encourages residents to register their planted tree to help the Treevitalize Tree Count Program register 20,000 newly planted trees in Allegheny County by 2012. All residents have to do is go to the www.treevitalizepgh.org website to register.

"Through partnership and collaboration with non-profit organizations and tremendous volunteer support, there are more than 3,000 new trees in our region," Ravenstahl said. "Reaching our ambitious goal will greatly improve Pittsburgh's tree cover and pay off dividends for future generations."

The Street Tree Resource Analysis Tool for Urban Forest Managers (STRATUM), developed by the USDA Forest Service, established a complete cost-benefit analysis of Pittsburgh's street trees. According to the report released last year, Pittsburgh's street trees provide cumulative benefits to the community valued at an average of $81 per tree annually, for a gross total value of $2.4 million annually.

"Like streets, sidewalks, public buildings, and recreational facilities, trees are a major capital asset," Martha W. Isler, Pittsburgh Shade Tree Commission chair said. "Our trees help to conserve and reduce energy use, reduce local carbon dioxide levels, improve air quality, mitigate storm water runoff, and provide other benefits associated with aesthetics, property value and an increased quality-of-life."

With the hiring of the City's first urban forester, the City has committed $50,000 through in-kind public works services to help reach the goal. In addition, more than 700 trees have been planted in neighborhood business districts and parks with support from the Mayor's Taking Care of Business Program and the Treevitalize.

TreeVitalize Pittsburgh, a partnership to improve tree cover in the Pittsburgh region, is a joint project of Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh, Friends of the Pittsburgh Urban Forest, PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

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CITY RELEASES RFP FOR BICYLE ROUTE AND SIGNAGE PLAN

(PITTSBURGH) October 15, 2009

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Department of City Planning has issued Requests for Proposals (RFP) for a bicycle route and signage plan. The Citywide plan will provide the City with a blue print for developing bicycle routes complete with a wayfinding and destination signage network.

City Planning will hire a consultant team to develop the plan that will identify bicycle routes that connect cyclists to the City's many neighborhoods, business districts, cultural amenities and recreational areas. The selected routes will be identified and aided by wayfinding and destination signage.

The planning process will begin this winter and is expected to be completed by summer of 2010. The plan, which is funded by the City, will be guided by public input and a Steering Committee consisting of City staff, transportation professionals and representatives from community organizations. Once the plan is completed, the City will initiate plans for installation.

The RFP is posted on the Department of City Planning's website, www.planpgh.com, and on the national and regional American Planning Association websites.

Proposals are due to City Planning by 4 p.m. on Thursday, November 12th, 2009. The Steering Committee will review and score the plans to select a consultant in December.

# # #

Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG) is a coalition of community leaders working for economic justice, equitable investment practices and sufficient financial resources to revitalize communities throughout Allegheny County. Since 1988, PCRG has worked with Pittsburgh's major lending institutions and public agencies to develop innovative reinvestment programs targeted to Pittsburgh's low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.

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MAYOR, PCRG SEEK TO STREAMLINE COLLECTION OF DELINQUENT TAXES AND LAND RECYCLING PROCESSES

(PITTSBURGH) October 14, 2009

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and the Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG) today encouraged members of Pittsburgh City Council to support the outsourcing of delinquent City real estate taxes to a 3rd party agency, Jordan Tax Service, as part of a greater movement towards linking tax collections, homeownership preservation and land recycling. Council members will vote on the resolution during today's session.

The outsourcing, part of a three-pronged plan to revitalize our City, will consolidate and centralize the collection process with the Pittsburgh Public Schools, the County and Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority who have already approved the collection services of Jordan Tax Service. If approved by City Council, as of January 1st 2010, residents would be getting one bill.

"This consolidation will benefit the delinquent taxpayer by offering them one low monthly payment which will allow them to save on the multiple fees that are being charged by multiple collection companies," said City Treasurer Margaret Lanier. "In addition, centralizing the process will generate more revenue through more effective collection procedures."

This contract builds off of the momentous buyback of privately-held municipal liens in December 2006, in which the City bought back liens on 11,000 properties for $6.5 million, approximately one-tenth of the original cost. Since that time the Mayor has continued to engage PCRG and its member organizations to find solutions on how to address the negative effects of tax delinquent and abandoned properties.

"Tax Delinquency and abandonment feed the cycle of blight, which becomes a hotbed of crime and deteriorates neighborhoods both socially and economically. We have the opportunity here and now not just to look at how we collect taxes and turn revenue into the services that our residents need, but also to examine how tax collection, homeownership preservation and land recycling are intimately tied together for the long-term vitality of the City and region," said Ernie Hogan, chair of the PCRG Board of Directors.

"Our goal here is not just to streamline the collection services, but to also connect those who are experiencing tough economic times to available financial and housing counseling services," Ravenstahl said.

In addition to the third party collection, the Mayor and PCRG will work together to make sure that delinquent taxpayers are made aware of all of their options, and to develop innovative strategies to reclaim and best utilize land.

"If we are going to pursue more aggressive tax collection, we have an obligation to our constituents to help them avoid becoming tax delinquent in the first place. A crucial component of this partnership is homeownership preservationproactively reaching out to struggling homeowners to help them avoid delinquency. The Mayor's commitment to this, especially in these difficult times, is admirable and I'm confident we can continue to work together on behalf of our communities," said City Councilman Patrick Dowd.

• Notice to Delinquent Taxpayers: The contract will honor existing payment plans and provide the opportunity for new plans to be entered into. The City will work with Jordan Tax Service to ensure that notifications and customer service are both clear and easy to understand, and easy to access.
• Homeowner Stabilization: The Mayor has asked PCRG to convene financial and housing counseling service providers who will reach out to and work with struggling homeowners to help them avoid becoming tax delinquent, and if they already have, to work to try and keep them in their homes when appropriate and able.
• Land Banking: The Mayor will work directly with PCRG to fundraise and establish a Land Bank Task Force. The charge of the task force would be to research and craft a plan or roadmap for how the City can better recycle tax delinquent and abandoned property - to turn it back into revenue-generating land that provides for future use and the increased viability of our neighborhoods.

Other cities throughout the nation, such as Philadelphia, have had significant success in collecting revenue through this method.

Said the Mayor, "I look forward to working with City Council, the County, Jordan Tax Service and the community at large to ensure that delinquent taxpayers are made aware of all of their options and to develop innovative strategies to unlock the potential of our land."

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Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG) is a coalition of community leaders working for economic justice, equitable investment practices and sufficient financial resources to revitalize communities throughout Allegheny County. Since 1988, PCRG has worked with Pittsburgh's major lending institutions and public agencies to develop innovative reinvestment programs targeted to Pittsburgh's low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.

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CITY EMPLOYEES INSTALL FIRST OF FIVE SOLAR HOT WATER PANELS

Mayor officially kicks off "Solar Week" in the City of Pittsburgh

Date:  October 13, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary
412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) October 13, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today watched as City employees completed the first of five solar hot water panel installations atop City Firehouse Truck 34, located in the City's North Side neighborhood.

"Our sustainability initiatives are focused on reducing our environmental impact, while at the same time saving money and improving services to citizens," said Ravenstahl. "This project is a great example of how you can meet all three goals at the same time, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, saving money on energy costs, and improving a building that provides essential public safety services to our taxpayers."

Yesterday, City employees including electricians, plumbers, steamfitters, foremen and supervisors participated in a half-day classroom training on solar panel installation, led by Chuck Marken of Sandia National Laboratories.

Today, those employees translated that training into hands-on experience installing four 4x10 solar hot water panels on the southern facing side of the firehouse roof. These panels will harness the sun's energy to produce hot water for the kitchen, bathroom, and showers in this house, eliminating the need to use natural gas for this purpose.

The solar energy equipment will be supplied by Vox Energy Solutions, LLC out of Allison Park, PA. Vox Energy was one of three companies that bid on the request for proposals for the equipment.

"Vox Energy Solutions is honored to be involved with the first solar thermal installation for the City of Pittsburgh," said Rich Foltz, president Vox Energy Solutions. "This project is one more step to assert the City's commitment to promote their environmental and energy efficiency goals."

The City spends roughly $5,500 per year on natural gas for this facility. Through this installation, it will save approximately 15 20 percent of its costs. The installation will also reduce the City's carbon footprint, save taxpayer dollars, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In addition, the 'green-collar' skills City employees will learn will allow the growth of the City's clean energy economy and further Pittsburgh's story of environmental transformation.

The City will follow this first installation with five additional solar thermal installations in 2010. Working with Carnegie Mellon University, the Mayor's Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency is currently assessing City-owned buildings to determine the location of future installations.

On Oct. 15 16, the City, with assistance provided by the Department of Energy, will host a two-day conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, targeting cities with colder climates, with the goal of advancing the integration of solar technology in the northeastern U.S.

Invitations were issued to 125 municipal employees in more than 20 northeastern U.S. cities, including New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Hartford, Buffalo and Cleveland. Also registered to attend the Northeastern Solar Cities Conference are municipal leaders from throughout Allegheny County.

Conference attendees will learn how to replicate Pittsburgh's solar program through seminars geared towards Planning and Zoning, Solar Access Laws, Solar Financing, and Inspection, as well as gain a basic understanding of solar thermal and photovoltaics. Representatives from the DOE, Sandia National Laboratories, PA Department of Environmental Protection and the International Renewable Energy Council will be presenting.

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Vox Energy Solutions is a full service alternative energy provider. They install and maintain, photovoltaic, solar thermal and wind turbines systems.

Solar America Cities is a partnership between the DOE and a select group of cities across the country that have committed to accelerating the adoption of solar energy technologies at the local level. The 25 cities selected received a combined $5 million in Department of Energy funding in addition to substantial hands-on technical assistance, provided by Sandia National Laboratories, over a two-year period. Sandia National Laboratories is a government-owned, contractor operated facility that manages energy initiatives for DOE.

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MAYOR DECLARES OCTOBER 12-16 SOLAR WEEK

City to perform first solar installation and host Solar Cities Conference

Date:  October 12, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary
412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) October 12, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today declared October 12 - 16 "Solar Week" in the City of Pittsburgh as City employees install the first of five planned solar hot water heaters tomorrow, and host the first of its kind "solar cities" conference on Thursday.

Beginning on Monday, Oct. 12, City electricians, plumbers, steamfitters, foremen and supervisors will participate in a half-day classroom training on solar panel installation, led by Chuck Marken of Sandia National Laboratories.

On Tuesday, Oct. 13, the employees will have the opportunity to translate this training into hands-on experience installing a solar hot water system on the roof of local Firehouse Truck 34, located at 3284 Central Avenue in the City's North Side neighborhood. Four 4 x 10 foot panels will be installed on the southern facing side of the firehouse roof. These panels will harness the sun's energy to produce hot water for the kitchen, bathroom, and showers in this house, eliminating the need to use natural gas for this purpose.

*MEDIA WILL BE INVITED advisory to follow

The City will follow this first installation with five additional solar thermal installations in 2010.

On Oct. 15 16, the City, with assistance provided by the Department of Energy, will host a two-day conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, targeting cities with colder climates, with the goal of advancing the integration of solar technology in the northeastern U.S.

Invitations were issued to 125 municipal employees in more than 20 northeastern U.S. cities, including New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Hartford, Buffalo and Cleveland. Also registered to attend the Northeastern Solar Cities Conference are municipal leaders from throughout Allegheny County.

Conference attendees will learn how to replicate Pittsburgh's solar program through seminars geared towards Planning and Zoning, Solar Access Laws, Solar Financing, and Inspection, as well as gain a basic understanding of solar thermal and photovoltaics. Representatives from the DOE, Sandia National Laboratories, PA Department of Environmental Protection and the International Renewable Energy Council will be presenting.

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Solar America Cities is a partnership between the DOE and a select group of cities across the country that have committed to accelerating the adoption of solar energy technologies at the local level. The 25 cities selected received a combined $5 million in Department of Energy funding in addition to substantial hands-on technical assistance, provided by Sandia National Laboratories, over a two-year period. Sandia National Laboratories is a government-owned, contractor operated facility that manages energy initiatives for DOE.

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MAYOR APPOINTS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS ACTING DIRECTOR

Date:  October 2, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary
412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Resume of Rob Kaczorowski

(PITTSBURGH) October 2, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that effective Mon., Oct. 5, Robert W. Kaczorowski has been appointed acting director of the Department of Public Works (DPW). Mr. Kaczorowski has served as DPW deputy director, under former Director Guy Costa, since Sept. of 2000, and has worked for the department for 25 years.

"For several years, I've had the pleasure to witness Mr. Kaczorowski's interactions with employees and residents, and am impressed with his leadership abilities and the amount of respect he has earned," Ravenstahl said. "Mr. Kaczorowski is a hard worker, a team player, and I am confident in his ability to get the job done."

Mr. Kaczorowski is eager to make improvements in the department which include expanding employees' capabilities through cross-training in order to complete more capital improvement projects.

"By investing in employee training, we can eliminate much of the in-house work that we currently contract out for, stretching out capital funding to get more projects done for our neighborhoods," said Kaczorowski. "In addition, I hope to help foster an even stronger partnership with community groups, athletic associations and volunteers who want to help to keep their neighborhoods clean and maintained."

Mr. Kaczorowski has more than 20 years of management experience. Besides working for the DPW, he has served as administrative manager for the Pittsburgh Parking Authority, director of public works for the Borough of Crafton, and as a supervisor in various capacities for the City.

Kaczorowski graduated Summa cum Laude from Point Park College with a B.S. in public administration. He also has an associate degree in business management from Robert Morris College.

Rob and his wife, Susan, live in the Crafton Heights neighborhood of Pittsburgh and are the proud parents of two daughters.

Guy Costa submitted his resignation, effective October 2, on July 9, 2009 after serving as DPW director for 10 years.

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MAYOR, COUNTY EXECUTIVE WELCOME THE PUBLIC TO VIEW CHAMPIONSHIP CUPS

Date:  September 29, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary
412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) September 29, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato invite 'City of Champions' fans to the City-County Building Portico from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thurs., Oct. 1, to view the Stanley Cup and Vince Lombardi Trophy.

"I want to thank the Penguins and Steelers organizations for giving Pittsburgh fans a once in a lifetime opportunity," Ravenstahl said. "Our championship sports teams made history this year, and made every Pittsburgher proud. I am thankful for the opportunity to give fans another chance to display their pride as they stand face-to-face with these storied trophies."

"Not many cities can boast two championships in one year, let alone see the championship trophies displayed side-by-side," said Onorato. "Fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Penguins are some of the most dedicated fans in the world, and I want to thank both organizations for giving fans this opportunity to share in and celebrate their success."

No representatives from the sports organizations will be present. Photos may be taken.

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MAYOR RELEASES PROPOSED FY 2010 OPERATING BUDGET AND FIVE-YEAR PLAN

Date:  September 23, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) September 23, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today submitted his proposed FY 2010 Operating Budget and updated five-year financial plan to the ICA board. The $455.3 million budget maintains the City's strong financial footing with revenues exceeding expenditures. The budget and updated plan once-again continues the responsible financial practices hallmark to the Ravenstahl administration. Most importantly, the budget steers the City towards fiscal solvency by making bold moves to fund the City's pension.

"While cities throughout the nation are making extremely difficult decisions resulting in employee lay-offs and wage freezes, we've been able to emerge as a model for cities across the country and the world," said Ravenstahl. "For three years we've built our savings account, shaved off debt payments, and invested in infrastructure using cash on hand. This proposed budget continues our pay-as-you-go budget and no debt policy and sets the model for how we will complete our financial recovery."

Recently proposed pension reform legislative would have forced the City to increase its required minimum payment to the pension fund to unsustainable levels, leading to serious service cuts. The Mayor worked with the legislative delegation, City Council, the Controller's Office, and organized labor to create a fair plan that sustains the pension and maintains budget integrity.

"This budget is a commitment to fund our pension obligation and prove to Harrisburg that we can complete our fiscal recovery while providing the services that our residents deserve," Ravenstahl said. "With this plan, we intend to have our pension funded at a ratio of greater than 50 percent within two years and up to 80 percent and higher before we will be able to reach solvency in about 25 years."

This budget funds the pension minimum municipal obligation (MMO) in 2010 with an additional $12.2 million dollars, consistent with the Act 47 Plan, and calls for additional revenues of $15 million per year to put into the pension fund.

The City will work closely with the oversight teams and City Council regarding the new revenue stream by the submission of the November budget.

The plan proposes the one-two punch of increased payments to the MMO every year as well as a one time large infusion of cash. The proposed budget and five year plan funds the MMO at $56.8 million in 2010; $64.8 million in 2011; $60 million in 2012; $60 million in 2013; and $60 million in 2014. These actions will substantially improve the funding ratio of the pension plan.

The one-time cash infusion will stem from the revenue generated from the monetization of the City's parking assets, pending City Council approval. After a year long feasibility study process, the Pittsburgh Parking Authority (PPA) board today issued a request for proposal for a "sell side advisor." The advisor will assist the PPA in soliciting and evaluating bids for the system.

"This was the next step in the ongoing process to determine the feasibility of monetizing the parking system," said David Onorato, PPA executive director "The Pittsburgh Parking Authority is encouraged by the initial feasibility study and we believe that a long term lease of our facilities will meet or exceed the expectations outlined by Mayor Ravenstahl."

The 2010 budget is being submitted to the ICA electronically and is available to all citizens in this format as well. Citizens may go to www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us to view a copy.

The ICA has 30 days to request changes to the Mayor's budget before he presents it to Council November 9.

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MAYOR FORMS ADVISORY COUNCIL TO IMPROVE CITY'S LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY

Date:  September 17, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) September 17, 2009 - Members of the first-ever Mayor's Office Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Advisory Council held their inaugural meeting on Tuesday, September 15th in the Mayor's Conference Room at City Hall. The advisory panel, made up of nine individuals from the LGBT community, has volunteered to serve as advisors to the Mayor on LGBT issues.

"I am pleased to have this group of enthusiastic and hard working individuals assembled to keep me informed of their needs and concerns," said Ravenstahl. "It is my goal to make Pittsburgh the most livable city for everyone and I appreciate the chance to work with my Advisory Council to help institute change for this community."

The nine inaugural members of the Council are: Elise Delong, Susan Haugh, Roy Matway, Wendi Miller, Rea Price, Amanda Rubio, Kathleen Schneider, Scott Stegman, and Rev. Deryck Tines. At the meeting, the Council elected Elise Delong as the inaugural chair/spokesperson and Susan Haugh was chosen as secretary. Ms. Haugh will also be the incoming chair.

"I thank Mayor Ravenstahl for his vision and consideration, and for this opportunity," said Elise Delong. "I am humbled by my selection as Inaugural Chair of this Mayor's Advisory Committee, and I thank each committee member for their support."

The Council, whose mission is to serve and advise the Mayor as well as advocate for equality of all persons with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity, agreed to meet monthly and will have quarterly meetings with the Mayor.

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WESTERN PA ENERGY CONSORTIUM RECEIVES EPA GREEN POWER LEADERSHIP AWARD

National awards honor leading green power purchasers

Date:  September 14, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Contact: Allison Bellins, U.S. EPA
202-343-9526
bellins.allisonepa.gov

(PITTSBURGH) September 14, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium (WPEC) has been chosen to receive a 2009 Green Power Leadership Award by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These annual awards recognize the country's leading green power purchasers for their commitment and contribution to helping advance the development of the nation's voluntary green power market.

WPEC was one of only 10 organizations nationwide to receive a leadership award for its green power purchase. The consortium is currently purchasing more than 11 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power annually, which is enough green power to meet 10 percent of the organization's electricity use.

"It is an honor to receive this recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency," said Ravenstahl. "The consortium's green energy purchase is a great example of the environmental benefits that can be achieved through regional collaboration."

"EPA's Green Power Leadership Award winners are raising the bar for green power purchasing," said Kathleen Hogan, director of EPA's Climate Protection Partnerships division. "By using renewable energy, Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium is helping our environment by leading our national transition to clean energy; they are a model for others to follow."

Green power is electricity that is generated from environmentally preferable renewable resources, such as wind, solar, geothermal, biogas, biomass and low-impact hydro. These resources generate electricity with a net zero increase in carbon dioxide emissions, while offering a superior environmental profile compared to traditional power generation sources.

Over the course of five years, the consortium will purchase enough renewable energy electricity to reduce the groups' carbon emissions by 44,800 tons of CO2. According to the U.S. EPA, this greenhouse gas reduction is equivalent to avoiding the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of more than 1,000 passenger vehicles per year, or is the equivalent amount of electricity needed to power more than 1,000 average American homes annually.

About Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium

In 2007, Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh established the Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium (WPEC) - a region-wide energy cost and consumption reduction program consisting of accounts from the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pittsburgh Water & Sewer, the Sports & Exhibition Authority and the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. The aggregated accounts are used in a reverse auction energy purchase conducted through Co-Exprise, a Wexford-based technology and strategic sourcing company, in order to gain the best possible price of electricity in cents per kWh.

About EPA's Green Power Partnership

The Green Power Partnership is a voluntary program that encourages organizations to buy green power as a way to reduce the environmental impacts associated with purchased electricity use. The Partnership currently has more than 1,000 Partner organizations voluntarily purchasing billions of kilowatt-hours of green power annually. Partners include a wide variety of leading organizations such as Fortune 500 companies, small and medium sized businesses, local, state, and federal governments, and colleges and universities. For additional information, please visit http://www.epa.gov/greenpower.

About the Green Power Leadership Awards

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) co-sponsors the annual Green Power Leadership Awards in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy and the Center for Resource Solutions. EPA recognizes winners in the following awards categories: Green Power Partner of the Year, On-site Generation, and Green Power Purchase. EPA's Purchaser awards recognize the exceptional achievement among EPA Green Power Partners who distinguish themselves through green power procurement, market leadership, overall green power strategy, and overall impact on the green power market. The Awards are held in conjunction with the Renewable Energy Markets Conference. For additional information please visit http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/awards/.

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MAYOR ENCOURAGES CITY EMPLOYEES TO PARTICIPATE IN WELLNESS HEALTH FAIRS

Date:  September 10, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) September 10, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today encouraged City of Pittsburgh employees to participate in one of the three remaining CityFit-Wellness at Work Health Fairs, being held on September 15, 16, and 17. The first health fair was held yesterday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the City-County Building. A record number of employees more than 400 participated in yesterday's health and wellness activities.

Presented for the third year by the CityFit Wellness Committee, these fairs offer a variety of free activities, including bio-metric and cholesterol screenings, body mass index evaluations, allergy testing, foot scans, posture analysis, and massage therapy. New this year are free PSA tests for men and information on breast health for women. All active employees with medical insurance through the City of Pittsburgh are eligible.

"As Mayor, it is my goal to invest in our employees' health, which is why the City went to a new health plan in April 2007 and developed the CityFit initiative with Highmark," said Ravenstahl. "These health fairs give our employees the opportunity to learn to about healthy living. In addition, they become aware of their own health issues and the trained health professionals who attend work with them to provide solutions to those issues."

To encourage participation in wellness activities, the Wellness Committee has come up with some innovative programs and incentives, including the opportunity for employees to reduce their 2010 annual medical contributions by a total of $240. By participating in bio metric screening and completing a health risk assessment questionnaire, employees can reduce their contributions by $120. They can also elect to participate in various CityFit and Highmark sponsored programs throughout the year to reduce contributions by $120. As an added incentive, eligible employees who participate in one of the Wellness Fairs receive two hours of comp time.

The remaining health fairs are offered on different days and in various locations to allow for all employees to participate:

Tues., Sept.15, 2009 Brookline Recreation Center 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Wed., Sept. 16, 2009 Riverview Park 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Thurs., Sept. 17, 2009 Schenley Park Ice Rink 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m

The CityFit-Wellness at Work Program promotes awareness of health, wellness and fitness for the employees of the City of Pittsburgh. CityFit empowers employees through comprehensive programming and the support of healthy lifestyle choices to enhance their pursuit of healthy living. This program reaches out to employees of all ages and abilities to motivate and improve their lifestyles. CityFit programs include smoking cessation, Drop Ten in Ten, 10,000 Steps, Eat Well For Life and Lunch and Learn.

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STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT ON G-20 SUMMIT IN PITTSBURGH

Date:  September 8, 2009

Michelle and I look forward to welcoming world leaders to the wonderful city of Pittsburgh on September 24th and 25th and we thank the people of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania for opening their city as a showcase to the world.

The Pittsburgh Summit is an important opportunity to continue the hard work that we have done in confronting the global economic crisis, and renewing prosperity for our people. Together, we will review the progress we have made, assess what more needs to be done, and discuss what we can do together to lay the groundwork for balanced and sustainable economic growth. Pittsburgh stands as a bold example of how to create new jobs and industries while transitioning to a 21st century economy. As a city that has transformed itself from the city of steel to a center for high-tech innovation including green technology, education and training, and research and development Pittsburgh will provide both a beautiful backdrop and a powerful example for our work.

It's important to note how far we have come in preventing a global economic catastrophe. A year ago, our economy was in a freefall. Some economists were predicting a second Great Depression. Immediate action was required to rescue the economy. In the United States, we passed an historic Recovery Act that quickly put money in the hands of working families, and is putting Americans to work all across the country including in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area. That includes companies like East Penn Manufacturing, a third-generation family business which is now building batteries for the hybrid, energy efficient vehicles of the 21st century. That includes Serious Materials manufacturing plant outside of Pittsburgh that was shuttered last year, which is now rehiring the workers who lost their jobs and giving them a new mission: producing some of the most energy-efficient windows in the world. And at medical laboratories in Pittsburgh, scientists are making advances in tissue regeneration, which will help people across the globe, including our troops wounded in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The steps that we have taken to jumpstart growth have also been coordinated with our partners around the world. Industrial production throughout the G20 has either stabilized or is growing. Global trade is expanding. Stresses in financial markets have significantly abated and our financial institutions are raising needed capital.

But all of us must remember that our work is far from complete not when our people are still looking for work. As the leaders of the world's largest economy, we have a responsibility to work together on behalf of sustained growth, while putting in place the rules of the road that can prevent this kind of crisis from happening again. To avoid being trapped in the cycle of bubble and bust, we must set a path for sustainable growth while steering clear of the imbalances of the past. That will be a key part of the G20 agenda going forward and the Pittsburgh Summit can be an important milestone in our efforts.

In a place known as the city of bridges, we can come together to advance our common interest in a global recovery, while turning the page to a truly 21st century economy.

By working with our friends and partners from around the world, the U.S. is ready to help lead this effort in Pittsburgh and beyond.

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CITY REC CENTERS TO PROVIDE FREE AFTERSCHOOL MEALS TO CHILDREN

Date:  September 2, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) September 2, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City's Department of Parks and Recreation (Citiparks) has added the Child and Adult Care Afterschool Feeding Program (CACFP) to its 10 Community Recreation Centers located throughout the greater Pittsburgh area. Beginning September 8, 2009, each of the qualified sites will provide a free and healthy, hot meal to school age children (kindergarten up to 18 years old). The meals will be available at the centers between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

"The City is pleased to offer this much needed service at our community centers," said Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Nutrition is a very important aspect of the recreation programming that we provide and with this economy, the City is happy to help where it can."

The family style meals, prepared by Nutrition, Inc., will be supplied through a partnership with Allegheny County Department of Human Service and are funded by the Food and Nutrition Services (FSN), an agency of the US Department of Agriculture. Examples of the meals to be served include meatloaf and whipped potatoes, hot dogs and baked beans and spaghetti. Snacks, including fresh fruit, will also be served. The program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and will be monitored by the state to ensure that health and safety requirements are being met.

The CACFP began as a pilot program in Pittsburgh in 2000, servicing 18 sites. The program has grown significantly to 70 sites throughout Allegheny County. Citiparks CACFP sites will include the following:

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MAYOR TO APPOINT DR. DARA WARE ALLEN TO SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT #2 POSITION

Date:  August 25, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 25, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he will appoint Dr. Dara Ware Allen to the Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) Board District #2 representative which was left vacant with the resignation of Heather Arnet. The Mayor will swear in Dr. Allen at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow during the PPS Board meeting located at 341 South Bellefield Avenue in Oakland.

"The interview process was a lot more difficult than I anticipated," said Ravenstahl, "with each candidate bringing something unique to the table. In the end, I chose Dr. Allen because of her extensive professional experience in working with young people and her proven commitment to the future of Pittsburgh Public Schools, our children and our City."

Dr. Allen, 36 of Highland Park and mother of two, currently serves as the executive director of YouthWorks, Inc. She holds a Ph.D. in workforce education and development/learning performance systems from Pennsylvania State University, a masters in education from Duquesne University and a B.A. in psychology from Spelman College. She will fill out the remainder of Ms. Arnet's term, which expires on December 5, 2011.

"I am humbled by this opportunity to serve the interests of all Pittsburgh Public School students and the City of Pittsburgh and am committing my best to this challenging and important role," said Dr. Allen.

Ms. Arnet resigned on June 30, 2009, about a year-and-a- half into her term, citing the need to concentrate on her professional job.

Eight Interested candidates submitted resumes and letters of intent to the Mayor's office by the application deadline. The Mayor interviewed all candidates.

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ONORATO & RAVENSTAHL ANNOUNCE $13.5 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDS FOR HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION EFFORTS

Date:  August 24, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
(mobile) 412-670-8546
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Kevin Evanto, 412-350-3171
(mobile) 412-352-4075
kevin.evanto@alleghenycounty.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 24, 2009 Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced the award of more than $13.5 million in Homelessness Prevention & Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) grants, made possible through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act. Eight recipient organizations will provide financial assistance and services to homeless individuals and families, as well as those who would become homeless without assistance. The program will provide short-term stability to families, allowing them to obtain stable, long-term housing when assistance ends.

"We've seen an increase in the number of hardworking people who are faced with unemployment, uncertainty, and homelessness," said Onorato. "Thanks to the federal recovery funds, we're taking proactive steps to help families and individuals weather the current economic downturn by offering financial counseling, relocation services, rental assistance and other options."

"There are many families and individuals in our City who have been affected by the current economic crisis, and it's important that we do whatever we can to protect them during these tough times," said Ravenstahl. "These funds will allow us to help those who are experiencing the threat of homelessness for the first time, as well as provide housing opportunities for those in need."

Action Housing, Community Human Services, North Hills Community Outreach, Veteran's Leadership Program, and the Urban League of Pittsburgh have been selected to provide homeless prevention programming and housing relocation services. In addition, the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) Call Center and Homeless Management Information Systems (HMIS), Neighborhood Legal Services, Three Rivers Communities-Apartment Search Locator, and Three Rivers Communities-Housing Quality Inspections will assist each of the grantees in implementation of their programs.

In order to qualify for assistance under the program, participants must be homeless or about to become homeless. In addition, households must be below 50 percent of the area median income, which for a family of four is $31,250, and must have no other housing options or financial support resources to obtain housing. Funds will be used to provide short-term and medium-term rental assistance, payment of security and utility deposits, moving costs, and motel vouchers, as well as financial counseling, credit repair, and legal services.

The programs are scheduled to begin in October. Information on how to apply for the programs will be released as soon as it becomes available.

In addition to the HPRP funds, Allegheny County expects to receive $787,641 from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development for homeless prevention programs.

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The Homelessness Prevention Fund was created under Title XII of Division A of the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009. The purpose of HPRP is to provide homelessness prevention assistance to households who would otherwise become homeless many due to the economic crisis and to provide assistance to rapidly re-house persons who are homeless as defined by section 103 of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.

Allegheny County received $6.7 million in HPRP funds, and the City of Pittsburgh received $6.8 million. The Allegheny County Department of Economic Development and the City of Pittsburgh partnered on creating the HPRP program that was designated for both city and county residents.

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CITY WRAPS UP SUCCESSFUL SUMMER FOOD PROGRAM TODAY

Date:  August 21, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 21, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City's Department of Parks and Recreation (Citiparks) has wrapped up its very successful "Summer Food Service Program." From June 15 - August 21, healthy breakfasts, lunches and snacks were served to children ages one to 18, as well as mentally disabled individuals up to 21 years old.

"The Summer Food Service Program is one of the most important services the City provides," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "Proper nutrition is essential at any age, but especially for children. Eating well-balanced meals early on can help children develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime."

In Summer 2009, the Citiparks program served nutritious meals and snacks to an average of 2,049 children daily.

The 10-week program, made possible by funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the Pennsylvania Department of Education, is operated at more than 100 sites throughout the Commonwealth. The program has won state accolades.

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MAYOR INTRODUCES G-20 LEGISLATION TO CITY COUNCIL

Date:  August 21, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 21, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl this morning introduced G-20 specific legislation to City Council aiming to keep Pittsburgh residents, workers and visitors safe and sound during the G-20 summit.

"I want to thank members of City Council in advance for their support in ensuring that Pittsburgh is ready to welcome the world for the G-20 summit," Ravenstahl said. "I urge members to engage in thoughtful dialogue which focuses on the need to protect our City and keep our residents and visitors safe and sound."

Of the six pieces of legislation, three are public safety ordinances that will allow the City to hire additional police officers, and prohibit the use of obstructive equipment and masks only if individuals use these materials to conduct illegal activity. Under the proposed ordinances, an individual may wear a mask and carry materials to protest, however once an individual seeks to do harm with such materials, officers are able to remove the individual from the area.

"We know that most of the individuals protesting during the G-20 will be peaceful and lawful," Public Safety Director Michael Huss said. "However, we know that there will be some individuals who will seek to do harm to our City and this ordinance will allow our officers to target the bad apples' only."

The proposed legislation is based on a combination of ordinances that were enacted in the cities of Denver and Philadelphia, respectively, in advance of the Democratic and Republican National Conventions.

"We took careful and thoughtful consideration in making sure that these ordinances strike a fair balance in allowing demonstrators to use objects to get their points across, while stopping those individuals who may use them to incite panic and harm," Ravenstahl said.

The other legislation includes two finance resolutions that will allow the City to draw from the G-20 funds received by the federal and state governments for needed equipment, supplies and insurance for officers. Lastly, the Mayor introduced an ordinance that will allow G-20 temporary event signage which will welcome visitors in commercial business districts.

"Since it was announced that Pittsburgh was chosen to host the world, we've been working tirelessly on making sure that our officers have the equipment and tools to get the job done and keep our City safe," Ravenstahl said. "News that the White House and state have stepped up to fill the funding gap will ensure that our City has the necessary resources to host a successful summit."

The Mayor also disclosed that the City has conditionally approved all seven permit requests related to the G-20. The City law department today sent certified letters to the applicants stating the conditions, and will seek to meet with them to find common ground. Examples of the conditions include: allowing marches, but understanding that the final destination cannot be determined until the security perimeter is defined; and allowing "tent cities" in City parks with the understanding that individuals must be out of the park by 11 p.m. as per City law.

"Our goal is to meet with all of these groups to ensure that they have the best locations possible to have their voices heard," Ravenstahl said. "Additionally, we will make available two designated protest locations that are within sight and sound of the Convention Center. We are working hard on defining this area so that groups have plenty of time to organize."

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Note: It has been reported that the City has received eight permit applications, however, one applicant under the name of "Bail Out The People" withdrew a permit last night.

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MAYOR REQUESTS PUBLIC INPUT ON PILOT STREETLIGHT INSTALLATION DURING G-20 SWEEP

Date:  August 20, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 20, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today invited residents to offer their feedback on the new streetlights that have been installed in the South Side neighborhood as part of the Mayor's Energy-Efficient Streetlight Conversion pilot project. The Mayor, while conducting the third of five G-20 'sweeps,' pointed out the black and white signs City crews were posting with input information.

"Several different green technologies are being showcased throughout the South Side, and we're engaging the residents to see which of these technologies will provide the best quality light," Ravenstahl said. "After this pilot phase, we'll be using the input to roll out energy-efficient lighting Citywide, continuing the greening of our City."

Each sign contains the email address, streetlight@city.pittsburgh.pa.us, where citizens can submit their feedback beginning immediately. Citizens are reminded to note the SL # on the pole in their email. Comments will be accepted through December 31, 2009.

More than 40 lighting vendors, representing various technologies including high pressure sodium, metal halide, LED, and induction lighting, applied to participate in the City's pilot installation. Each vendor provided three lights, free of charge, to the City for a nine month trial. Energy-efficient streetlights in the pilot program were installed in June and July 2009 and will remain in place until February 2010. The results of the study will be used to choose a lighting technology, with a Request for Proposals to be issued in April 2010.

The Mayor also acknowledged the offices of Councilwoman Darlene Harris and Councilman Bill Peduto for their role in introducing the Energy-Efficient Streetlight legislation in March 2009.

"Regardless of the lighting technology that is ultimately chosen, this lighting retrofit project will improve our City's quality of lighting, reduce our carbon footprint, and save taxpayer dollars," Ravenstahl said.

The City currently operates 39,779 street lights using 2,293,748 kilowatt hours (kWh), at a yearly cost of approximately $3.2 million. The Mayor's Office of Sustainability and Energy-Efficiency is hoping to shave up to 50 to 60 percent of that cost by replacing the lights with green technologies.

During the sweep, the Mayor encouraged businesses to keep their storefronts clean, while City crews removed graffiti, power-washed sidewalks, removed dead trees and pruned healthy ones. A list of potential locations for bike racks was also compiled. Bike racks throughout the South Side and in other City neighborhoods will be installed before the Summit.

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COMPREHENSIVE CITY-OWNED FACILITIES STUDY MOVING FORWARD

Date:  August 18, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, Press Secretary 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 18, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City has issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) for a City facility analysis and management planning of municipal buildings to four short-listed firms: Apex Realty Advisors, LLC; Massaro Corporation; Plante Moran; and SSI Services.

"Working more efficiently is just smart government," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "This comprehensive evaluation of City-owned buildings will allow us to develop a strategy to maximize the use and operating performance of each facility, with the goal of saving taxpayer dollars through reduced utility costs."

The comprehensive evaluation is the first step in a three phase project for a facilities management study: Phase I, Optimization Plan; Phase II, Space Utilization Plan; and Phase III, Preventative Maintenance-Master Plan. The resulting final report will be used to develop recommendations concerning budgetary prioritization of maintenance tasks, and lowering the cost and improving energy efficiency of operations of critical City facilities.

The City owns approximately 300 structures, totaling over 2.1 million square feet of building space.

Deadline for responses for the RFP is no later than 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2009. The Notice to Proceed will be issued on January 4, 2010, with the study beginning immediately after.

In May 2007, the City and URA issued a Request For Qualifications (RFQ), receiving submissions from eight teams. A joint City-URA committee interviewed all eight in August 2007, and short-listed four firms. The City now has funding in place, through the 2009 Capital Budget, and is ready to proceed with the project.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES RECONSTRUCTION OF MARKET SQUARE TO BEGIN MONDAY

Historic City Center gathering space receiving upgrade

Date:  August 17, 2009
Contact: Megan Stearman, URA
412-255-6576
mstearman@ura.org

(PITTSBURGH) August 17, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, in cooperation with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) today announced that the reconstruction of Market Square has begun.

The City of Pittsburgh Department of City Planning, the URA, and PDP combined forces to design and reconstruct the historic Downtown gathering space at Forbes Avenue and Market Street to serve as a more pedestrian friendly space with a focus on outdoor dining.

"Market Square is the heart of our city," Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said. "Investing in this historic asset to create an exceptional public space is critical to the continued revitalization of our City Center. I ask that the public be patient as we work as hard and as fast as we can to make the Square an even better destination for residents, visitors, and families."

Reconstruction of the square has been expedited in order to meet a summer 2010 completion, and therefore construction plans have changed slightly from previous reports. When construction commences today, the interior of the Square will be closed to pedestrians and vehicles.

There will be a pedestrian walkway along the entire perimeter that will be separated from the construction by fencing. This will allow pedestrians full access into businesses around the Square. Vehicular traffic will be restricted to passing down one side of the Square and less parking will be available during construction.

Information on nearby parking options is available at www.downtownpittsburgh.com/parking. Downtown commuters are urged to plan accordingly.

Additionally, the weekly Farmer's Market held in the square will be relocated to Gateway Plaza (between Gateway Two and The Hilton where the Three Rivers Arts Festival Artists Market happens). Market dwellers can continue to shop from local farmers and vendors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays starting Thursday, August 20, 2009 through December.

"Businesses in Market Square will remain open and accessible, and we encourage everyone to support them during this construction period," Mike Edwards, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) said. "The PDP will provide weekly updates about the construction project using a blog, Twitter and Facebook and will offer assistance to merchants throughout the next several months to ensure their success now and when the square is reopened next year."

Improvements include new street construction, functional and aesthetic lighting, grading, drainage, landscaping, irrigation, sidewalk extensions, and utility work on electric, gas, water lines, sanitary sewers, and storm sewers. When the Square is completed, vehicular traffic entering the square from Forbes Avenue or Market Street will be able to proceed around the center space as the four center islands will be combined into one large, pedestrian-only center island. The lanes that cross through the center island will, however, will remain traffic rated so that they may be used in cases of emergency.

Brick sidewalks will be extended allowing for expanded caf seating around the square. The elevation of the entire plaza will be brought to one level, eliminating curbs throughout the square and creating a "piazza" from building faade to building faade, with vehicular circulation routes designated by a change in paving material.

"It is exciting to see all of the progress happening in the City of Pittsburgh," Rick Faust, Manager, The Original Oyster House said. "Although the construction in Market Square may negatively impact businesses during renovation, we remain optimistic that the group effort to improve the square will have a very positive effect in the future."

Market Square is a $5 million reconstruction project with engineering and design work completed by Wilbur Smith Associates, and Klavon Design Associates respectively. Construction will be done by A. Merante Contracting, Inc.

Design renderings and plans for Market Square can be viewed at www.downtownpittsburgh.com.

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MAYOR, COUNTY EXECUTIVE TOUR LIFE SCIENCES GREENHOUSE

Date:  August 17, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Kevin Evanto, 412-350-3171
(mobile) 412-352-4075
kevin.evanto@alleghenycounty.us
Bryan Iams, Bayer Corp., 412-777-5732
(mobile) 412-316-5681
Lynn M. Brusco, Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse
412-201-7370
(mobile) 412-480-2835
lbrusco@plsg.com

(PITTSBURGH) August 17, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato today toured the Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse (PLSG) incubator and office space where companies are taking ground breaking life sciences products and services from concept to commercialization. Company CEOs were on hand to demonstrate how their innovative products can treat and potentially cure diseases and create global healthcare solutions.

"The Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse exemplifies our region's ability to reinvent itself and create new industries based on innovation and entrepreneurship, one of the reasons why President Obama chose Pittsburgh to host the G-20 summit," said Ravenstahl. "Right here in Pittsburgh, the world's leading scientists and engineers are developing technology solutions and life saving vaccines that will ultimately change the world much like the polio vaccine did."

"The Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse is a perfect example of why our region has earned a reputation of being on the leading edge of science and technology," said Onorato. "The PLSG cultivates our regional talent and turns it into new opportunity through innovation and job creation. The Pittsburgh Technology Center also sits on a former brownfield and is a model of how we have successfully transitioned our region, both economically and environmentally, by taking back our riverfronts and reclaiming and redeveloping former industrial sites."

John W. Manzetti, president and CEO of PLSG, led a tour through three of its incubator laboratories and showcased six additional companies throughout the incubator office space. All of the companies are part of the PLSG's Portfolio of promising innovations including; Biotechnology Tools, Diagnostics, Healthcare IT, Medical Devices and Therapeutics.

"It's our privilege to get the word out that this region has some of the world's very best life sciences technologies," said John W. Manzetti, PLSC president & CEO "We are creating companies and growing our talent pool of researchers and entrepreneurs which will allow us bring more innovation and investment opportunities to the market."

The Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse (PLSG) provides capital investments and customized company formation and business growth services to western Pennsylvania's life sciences enterprises. The PLSG supports biosciences companies with promising innovations in the following concentrations: Biotechnology Tools, Diagnostics, Healthcare IT, Medical Devices and Therapeutics. The PLSG is propelling the sustainable growth of the region's life sciences economy by accelerating research and technology commercialization with seed and early-stage companies; connecting investors with their Investment Portfolio companies; expanding established life sciences ventures and relocating biomedical companies to Pennsylvania . For more information, visit www.plsg.com.

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WINNERS ANNOUNCED IN MAYOR RAVENSTAHL'S 'SIX BURGH REASONS WHY I LOVE MY NEIGHBORHOOD' CONTEST

Date:  August 11, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
(mobile) 412-670-8546
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Six Burgh Winning Entries

(PITTSBURGH) August 11, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced the winners of his "Six Burgh Reasons Why I ♥ My Neighborhood" contest at a luncheon he hosted for them at Del's 80s Caf, 1826 Brownsville Road in Carrick. The six lucky winners are: Joan Bellisario of Brighton Heights; Sherri Lynn Dunik of South Side; Clara Ferreira of Brookline; Janel Jones of Hazelwood; Robert Meussner, Sr. of Carrick; and Brandon Skalniak of Carrick.

"We had many great entries, and it was obvious that a lot of time was put into them," said the Mayor. "The ones selected just had something special about them - they were personal, heartwarming and made us want to go and visit that neighborhood."

The contest winners were treated to lunch with the Mayor courtesy of the caf's owners, Dolores "Del" and Scott Girdwood. The winning entries will be posted on the City's website and the City's Cable Channel, format permitting, beginning next week.

The contestants' challenge was to tell the Mayor why they loved their neighborhoods - incorporating their six reasons into an essay, photos or video. Entries were submitted in all three formats.

Of the winning entries, two were essays, two were photo essays, one was a power point and one was a video cleverly done by 5 year old Brandon Skalniak, with a little help from his parents. Some of Brandon's reasons for loving Carrick include that it's great for kids and riding bikes and his backyard is like a zoo.

The winners were selected based on creativity, originality, relevance, usefulness and content. The entries were judged by the Mayor and his Neighborhood Initiatives and Communications staff.

Mayor Ravenstahl launched the contest in February to celebrate the love Pittsburghers have for their neighborhoods and the stories behind their sentiments. The contest ran for three months with plans for the luncheon tentatively scheduled for late May. Due to the primary election, the Penguins winning the Stanley Cup and summer vacations, the luncheon was rescheduled for August.

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PENN AVENUE RECEIVES SHARED LANE MARKINGS

Date:  August 7, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
(mobile) 412-670-8546
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 7, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that as part of the Strip District/Penn Avenue project, shared lane markings have been installed on Penn Avenue from 32nd to 25th streets. Upon completion, the shared lane markings will run on Penn Avenue from 32nd to 16th Streets.

The Strip District/Penn Avenue project is part of the Mayor's Bicycle/Pedestrian Initiatives and the City's plan to install bicycle infrastructure on streets that experience high bicycle traffic volumes as well as those that connect cyclists to work and entertainment.

"Bicycling as a means of transportation is part of our overall sustainability initiatives," said the Mayor. "This project not only expands the current bicycle infrastructure, it provides additional safety for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists and continues to green our City."

"The cycling community is enthusiastic about the Mayor's commitment to making our City more livable by enhancing the safety of bicyclists on our streets," said Scott Bricker, executive director of Bike Pittsburgh. "Bike Pittsburgh looks forward to our continued partnership with our elected leaders and City departments in order to complete our streets for all users regardless of mode of transportation in every neighborhood."

With the completion of the Strip District/Penn Avenue project, various neighborhoods will have a direct route to Downtown. Currently, shared lane markings and bicycle lanes exist on Liberty Avenue through Bloomfield from Baum Boulevard to Herron Avenue Bridge. The Penn Avenue project will extend the existing infrastructure to Downtown and points between.

Shared lane markings (identified by a bicycle symbol and chevrons) are pavement markings generally installed on streets that are too narrow to accommodate bicycle lanes. The markings provide road placement for street users on those streets which experience a significant mix of motorized and non-motorized vehicles. Bicyclists are advised to ride through the middle of the symbol to ensure that they are clear of the door zone while continuing to share the road. Motorists are permitted to drive over or through the symbol, but must yield to bicyclists. Motorists are advised to use the left lane to safely pass bicyclists.

As a reminder, bicycles are permitted on all City streets unless explicitly prohibited by signage.

The Mayor's Bicycle/Pedestrian initiatives, or Four E's - Engineering, Events, Education and Enforcement - provide a framework to encourage residents to bike and work. They also outline what the City needs to attain Bicycle Friendly Status through the League of American Bicyclists.

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MAYOR LAUNCHES PROPOSAL PROCESS TO BEGIN THE 'GREENING' OF CITY HALL

Date:  August 6, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) August 6, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Mayor's Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency have issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) for qualified contractors to conduct an energy audit of the City-County Building.

The comprehensive audit, to begin in early 2010, will result in a final report which will tell the City which energy improvements to make first, based largely on cost-effectiveness and energy-efficiency.

"Investing in energy-efficiency improvements is a win-win-win situation," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "We will reduce our impact on the environment, make this building a more pleasant place to work and visit, and enjoy the cost savings in reduced energy bills for years to come."

The audit and some of the recommended retrofits will be funded through the City's $3.4 million Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, an allocation through President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

"Too often people think that green' buildings have to be new construction. We want to show Pittsburgh and the world that some of our oldest buildings can be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly while maintaining their historical integrity," said Ravenstahl.

The goal of the City's energy improvement programs is to not only reduce environmental impact, but to also save money that can be used to fund further improvements in other City-owned buildings. Other environmental improvements to City buildings include the first of five solar installations planned to be installed this fall at a City firehouse.

The RFP is available on the City website: www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us. Responses are due no later than 4 p.m., September 2, 2009. The actual audit and subsequent energy-efficiency improvements are set to begin in January of 2010.

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ONORATO, RAVENSTAHL TOUR BAYER LABS DEVELOPING GREEN INNOVATIONS

Company will display large banner along Parkway West welcoming G-20 visitors

Date:  July 30, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Kevin Evanto, 412-350-3171
(mobile) 412-352-4075
kevin.evanto@alleghenycounty.us
Bryan Iams, Bayer Corp., 412-777-5732
(mobile) 412-316-5681

ROBINSON TWP., Pa. (July 30, 2009) - Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today toured laboratories and testing areas at Bayer MaterialScience where new sustainable and green innovations are being developed.

"Bayer Corporation exemplifies our region's remarkable economic transformation, which led President Obama to select Pittsburgh to host the G-20 Summit in September," said Onorato. "Bayer is also on the leading edge in developing a wide range of sustainable innovations, which is helping to solidify our region's leadership in green technology."

"Bayer is the perfect example that Pittsburgh has not only become a leader in green-collar jobs, thanks to the efforts of our trade unions and manufacturing companies, but also is leading the way in the development of the sustainable technologies of tomorrow," said Ravenstahl. "This comprehensive approach is allowing us to develop a clean energy economy, which is able to evolve and adapt over time."

Dr. Bob Kumpf, Chief Administrative Officer at Bayer MaterialScience , showcased the company's developments in carbon nanotubes, polyurethane foams, and LED lighting applications. Dr. Kumpf also discussed a new $750,000 grant awarded to Bayer MaterialScience by the U.S. Department of Energy for carbon nanotube reinforced polyurethane composites for wind turbine blades. The United States is the fastest-growing wind power market in the world.

"Bayer MaterialScience is committed to developing sustainable products and applications that address many of the world's most urgent problems," said Kumpf. "That is why our scientists and engineers here in Pittsburgh are creating innovations that make life more sustainable, safer and more comfortable and at the same time take even greater account of the need to protect the environment."

Bayer Corporation also announced it would "Welcome the World" to our region by displaying a Pittsburgh G-20 Partnership welcome sign at its prominent location along the Parkway West. Other companies located in the airport corridor that are interested in joining the welcome effort should contact the Pittsburgh G-20 Partnership.

Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with nearly 15,100 employees at 30 sites around the world and 2008 sales of 9.7 billion euros. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries.

For more information about Bayer MaterialScience's Baytubes carbon nanotubes, call 412-777-3983, e-mail naftainfo@bayerbms.com or visit www.bayermaterialsciencenafta.com or www.baytubes.com.

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CITY TO HOST NORTHEASTERN SOLAR CITIES CONFERENCE OCTOBER 15-16

Date:  July 27, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 27, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City in partnership with the Department of Energy will bring together more than 20 northeastern U.S. cities for its first-ever Solar Cities Conference on October 15-16, 2009, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Invitations were issued this afternoon to 125 municipal employees in more than 20 northeastern U.S. cities.

"I'm proud and excited that Pittsburgh is taking the lead in providing outreach and solar education to regional municipalities," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "The fact that the conference follows the G20 Summit offers yet another opportunity to showcase to the world our City's leadership in environmental and economic transformation."

The two-day conference will target cities with colder climates, with the goal of advancing the integration of solar technology in the northeastern U.S. While the target audience for the conference is major northeastern cities, including New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Hartford, Buffalo and Cleveland, it also includes municipal leaders from Allegheny County.

"Only 25 cities were awarded solar grants, and smaller surrounding municipalities would not have been eligible to apply," said the Mayor. "We wanted to share with those municipalities some of the significant expertise and resources available to us as a Solar America City, and this conference is the perfect vehicle."

Conference attendees will learn how to replicate Pittsburgh's solar program through seminars geared towards Planning and Zoning, Solar Access Laws, Solar Financing, and Inspection, as well as gain a basic understanding of solar thermal and photovoltaics. Representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE) and Sandia National Laboratories will be conducting the training.

Solar America Cities (SAC) is a partnership between the DOE and a select group of cities across the country that have committed to accelerating the adoption of solar energy technologies at the local level. The 25 cities selected received a combined $5 million in Department of Energy funding in addition to substantial hands-on technical assistance, provided by Sandia National Laboratories, over a two-year period. Sandia National Laboratories is a government-owned, contractor operated facility that manages energy initiatives for DOE.

Since being declared a SAC last year, the City has been weaving in solar training for all relevant employees and will install its first of five planned solar installations at a City firehouse this fall.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES DATES FOR SOLAR INSTALLATION, RFP ISSUED

Date:  July 20, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 20, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Mayor's Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency will perform Pittsburgh's first solar installation at a City firehouse the week of October 12, 2009, and has issued a request for proposals for the purchasing of the solar installation equipment.

On October 13 and 14, guided by Sandia National Laboratories and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) personnel, City staff will install a solar hot water system on the roof of local Firehouse Truck 34, located at 3284 Central Avenue in the City's North Side neighborhood. This will be the first Pittsburgh Solar Cities installation and will be followed by five solar equipment installations to be completed by the end of 2010. The City, working with Carnegie Mellon University, is currently analyzing energy data and visiting facilities to determine the future installations.

"This solar installation will eliminate the need to use natural gas to create hot water, reduce our carbon footprint, save money, and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels," Ravenstahl said. "In addition, the green-collar' skills our employees will learn will allow us to grow our clean energy economy and further Pittsburgh's story of environmental transformation in advance of the G-20 summit."

The Mayor's Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency will prepare for the installation by providing training on solar equipment for relevant City employees, including building inspectors, plumbers and electricians. The training will be facilitated by Chuck Marken of Sandia National Laboratories.

The request for proposals for the solar installation equipment was issued on Friday, July 10. Forms are available on both the City and County websites at www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us. Deadline for submission is Wednesday, July 29 at 11 a.m.

Solar America Cities is a partnership between the DOE and a select group of cities across the country that have committed to accelerating the adoption of solar energy technologies at the local level. The 25 cities selected received a combined $5 million in Department of Energy funding in addition to substantial hands-on technical assistance, provided by Sandia National Laboratories, over a two-year period. Sandia National Laboratories is a government-owned, contractor operated facility that manages energy initiatives for DOE.

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MAYOR RAVENSTAHL BREAKS GROUND FOR SOUTH SHORE RIVERFRONT PARK

Construction begins for $12 million urban playground

Date:  July 14, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
(mobile) 412-670-8546
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Contact: Megan Stearman, URA, 412-255-6576
(mobile) 412-304-4001
mstearman@ura.org

(PITTSBURGH) July 14, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, along with development and community partners, broke ground today for the South Shore Riverfront Park, located adjacent to SouthSide Works development.

"Pittsburgh is becoming well known for renewing public access to our former industrial riverfront sites, our most treasured natural assets," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "This park returns this remarkable site to City residents and visitors, and provides for a unique urban playground."

The South Shore Riverfront Park is the $12 million redevelopment of the former LTV steel site located adjacent to the SouthSide Works development between 25th and 29th Streets along the Monongahela River.

Construction at the park includes a permanent boat dock facility to accommodate 17 transient recreational vessels which will enable boaters to access the Park, the $400 million SouthSide Works development and the South Side neighborhood.

The project will also provide community access to the river, outdoor activities, interpretive signage and historic trail markers, continuing the Three Rivers Heritage Trail system and Great Allegheny Passage. The Interpretive signage has been developed and funded in part by Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area and will be maintained by Friends of the Riverfront.

Completion of the park is anticipated for 2012. Upon completion, the park will connect to the Hot Metal Pedestrian Bridge and bike trail, and will allow for the future expansion of waterfront activities.

"Construction of the tie-up facility will complete a true multi-modal hub," Rob Stephany, URA executive director said. "This unique development will now be accessible by boat, bus, bike, car, and foot."

The South Shore Riverfront Park differs from other Pittsburgh waterfront parks, with an amphitheatre, trail access, handicap accessibility to the river, and proximity to the SouthSide Works retail complex.

Today on the 34-acre SouthSide Works site developed by Soffer Organization, more than 2,000 jobs have been created, and many retailers new to the Pittsburgh market have been attracted, as well as several technology companies, and the America Eagle Outfitters World Headquarters. At full build-out, SouthSide Works will provide 5,600 jobs and over 400 housing units.

"This park consummates the vision that we have for the development, the vision of retaining young people in Pittsburgh," Damian Soffer, president, Soffer Organization said. "This unique outdoor entertainment space creates a vibrant place within the City for people to relax and enjoy the outdoors, the arts, and their neighbors."

Development partners include City of Pittsburgh Department of City Planning, Friends of the Riverfront, Riverlife, Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area, The Soffer Organization, South Side Local Development Company, and Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh.

"We are thrilled to see the quality and plentiful resources which have been funneled into this exciting urban park project, which has been in the making for nearly a decade," Lisa Schroeder, executive director, Riverlife said. "Riverlife's board of directors and dedicated community advocates are proud to have been a part of its planning, fundraising, and design. We can't wait to bring our dogs, have some drinks, and enjoy the river views!"

The South Shore Riverfront Park has been made possible with funding support from The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Honorable Edward Rendell, Governor; Community Conservation Partnerships Program, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; Senator Jay Costa; The Heinz Endowments, Howard Heinz Endowment, Vira I. Heinz Endowment; NiSource Charitable Foundation / Columbia Gas; Pennsylvania Department of Transportation; Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Federal Assistance in Sport Fish Restoration Program; Richard King Mellon Foundation; The Soffer Organization; U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; Representative Jake Wheatley; Anonymous; and Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh. Tax Increment Financing was also approved for this project by the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and Pittsburgh Public Schools.

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DEAN'S FIELD TO BE RENAMED
FOR OFFICER PAUL J. SCIULLO II

Date:  July 14, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
(mobile) 412-670-8546
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 14, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and members of City Council today introduced legislation that will ensure the legacy of one of Pittsburgh's fallen heroes. Working with the members of the Bloomfield Citizens Council, the Bloomfield Preservation and Heritage Society, Dennis Scullion and the Bloomfield community, the Mayor and Council plan to officially change the name of Dean's Field to the Officer Paul J. Sciullo II Memorial Field. The field is located at the base of the Bloomfield Bridge in the 8th Ward of the City.

The idea to rename the field came from Dennis Scullion, Officer Sciullo's cousin, life-long friend, and barber. Janet Cercone Scullion, president of the Bloomfield Citizens Council, and members of the Bloomfield community met with Mayor Ravenstahl a few weeks ago to suggest renaming the field.

"Renaming Dean's Field is a wonderful way to honor Officer Sciullo and his legacy," said Mayor Ravenstahl, "and I am proud to work with the Bloomfield residents on this tribute to our fallen hero. Now when people visit this field, they will be reminded of this special man and what he meant to this community. "

"Dennis Scullion, the Bloomfield Citizens Council, the Bloomfield Preservation & Heritage Society, and the Bloomfield Community initiative to rename Dean's Field as the Officer Paul J. Sciullo II Memorial Field is based upon our deep love for a man who revered his family, friends, and neighborhood," states Janet Scullion. "We can trace his steps through time as a young boy playing Little League Baseball on those grounds. This action will insure that Officer Paul J. Sciullo II's legacy will remain alive for generations to come."

The legislation, to be submitted by Councilwoman Theresa Smith, will be signed by the Mayor.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES HISTORIC PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BOROUGH OF MILLVALE

Date:  July 8, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 8, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Millvale Borough Council President James Porter announced today the tentative agreement for Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) to acquire the Millvale water system. This is the first time PWSA has ever provided full managed water service outside of the City of Pittsburgh.

"This is an historic moment for PWSA," said Mayor Ravenstahl, "and another tremendous opportunity for the City to partner with one of our surrounding municipalities. Now more than ever, with increasing infrastructure costs, it is important that we seek efficiencies and share services to reduce the cost of government."

This acquisition will help to stabilize the future rate structure for rate payers by increasing the number of base rate payers and minimizing the impact of infrastructure emergencies.

"We have been working on this for a long time and I am glad to see this come to fruition," said Porter. "I believe that with the increasing costs related to our infrastructure and governmental mandates this will save the borough money in the long run."

The tentative agreement is for PWSA to purchase the Millvale water system for $1.5 million. PWSA will own and maintain the Millvale water lines and provide water services for an additional 1800 customers at a cost of $700,000 per year. This purchase will have no affect on current PWSA customer rates. In the long run, obtaining new customers will help to stabilize the rates for both City and Millvale residents.

The City in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs is currently working with Millvale and the 34 other municipalities that border the City in a collaboration called CONNECT - the Congress of Neighboring Communities - an initiative that promotes collaboration and cooperation between municipalities. One of the priorities of CONNECT is to address the crucial regional issue of water/sewer infrastructure. The City's collaboration with Millvale and other municipalities to provide water is a critical piece in furthering this goal.

Currently, PWSA provides water and sewer service to 350,000 residents in the City of Pittsburgh. In addition, PWSA also provides water for resale to Reserve Township, Fox Chapel, Aspinwall Borough, Hampton Township and Shaler Township. PWSA will now provide full managed water service to the 4,000 residents in Millvale Borough.

The PWSA water system has the capacity to pump 120,000 gallons per day. Right now, the PWSA system is operating at about 60 percent. Millvale residents are currently billed quarterly. Once the acquisition takes place, Millvale residents will be billed monthly. PWSA water customers use an average of 5,000 gallons and pay an average of $34.67 per month.

It is the mission of PWSA to provide residents with the best possible service at the lowest possible cost. PWSA will take board action for this agreement at the next board meeting scheduled for 9:30 a.m., July 31, 2009. Millvale will take action at their next council meeting scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on July 14, 2009.

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MAYOR TO SPEAK TO COLLEGE STUDENTS ABOUT CITY LIVING OPPORTUNITIES

Will present keynote at Young Professionals Panel Discussion hosted by RIC and Propel Commission

Date:  July 7, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 7, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl tomorrow will be the keynote speaker at the Young Professionals Panel Discussion with the Mayor's Propel Pittsburgh commission at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8 at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, located at 5941 Penn Avenue. The Regional Internship Center of southwestern Pennsylvania (RIC) has partnered with the Mayor and the Propel Pittsburgh Commission to present this information-filled evening for young adults who are part of the Mayor's Propel commission, the Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP), and interns from all across the country.

"This panel discussion will give potential residents of our City an in depth look at what Pittsburgh has to offer from the perspective of the young professionals that currently live and work here," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "By presenting what opportunities are out there and reinforcing that young people have a voice in planning the future of our City, we hope to showcase our strengths and gain insight into innovative ways to grow our young professional population."

The panel discussion is part of the RIC's Interns Summer Program - an effort to attract and retain young creative talent in the Pittsburgh Region. Hosted for the seventh consecutive year by the RIC, this year's program features 12 different events in five different neighborhoods.

Maggie Sullivan, a member of the Propel commission notes, "This is an important opportunity for us as a Commission to unlock a direct line to the young professionals within the college realm. We have an openness to listen and to work with the Mayor to create policy change if it makes sense."

Regarding the importance of such a powerful collaboration between the Mayor's Propel Commission and the RIC, Regina Anderson, Director of the RIC states, "The Propel Commission and the RIC see eye-to-eye on the significance of empowering our upcoming workforce. By collecting the views and ideas of our interns, new initiatives to improve our City become more important to those interns when their ideas are a vital part of that positive change."

Mayor Ravenstahl created the Propel Pittsburgh Commission in 2007 to encourage greater participation in government, identify or create programmatic or policy opportunities in issues affecting young adults and young professionals in Pittsburgh, and to inform various elected and appointed officials representing young people about issues specific to them.

The RIC is a program of Coro Pittsburgh. The mission of Coro is to advance ethical and effective leaders who share a commitment to civic engagement. For more information about Coro programs please visit the Coro Pittsburgh website at http://pittsburgh.coro.org.

For more information about PYP programs please visit the PYP website at www.pyp.org.

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CITY SEEKS CONSULTANT TO DEVELOP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Date:  July 7, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Link to RFP 

(PITTSBURGH) July 7, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Department of City Planning has issued Requests for Proposals (RFP) for the initial two chapters of the City's first-ever Comprehensive Plan. The Citywide plan will provide a blueprint for government, businesses and neighborhood groups on how the City develops, uses and conserves its fiscal, social and natural resources.

In partnership with the Department of Citiparks, City Planning will hire a consultant team to conduct an Open Space, Parks and Recreation Plan that will identify opportunities for adding land to the City's parks, open spaces, trails and greenway network, and develop strategies and policies for re-using vacant lots. The second chapter will include a Cultural Heritage Plan that will compile existing lists of historic properties, identify important heritage districts and examine current policies related to heritage conservation and tourism. A Transportation Plan and a Public Art Plan are scheduled to be developed within the next three years.

"Already, we've been aggressively dealing with how we utilize our vacant land, turning more than 70 vacant lots into urban farms and gardens, and launching a plan to reconnect neighborhoods with rivers." Ravenstahl said. "We are going to build off of this momentum and develop the first parts of a blueprint that will allow us to better coordinate public and private efforts to enhance our neighborhoods, protect our natural resources and historic assets, and ultimately make Pittsburgh an even more livable City."

By creating a common vision of how the City should progress over the next few decades, the Comprehensive Plan will provide a framework that coordinates the multitude of neighborhood improvement projects in an equitable and sustainable manner.

The two planning efforts will begin this fall, and are expected to be completed by spring of 2011. Each plan will be guided by public input and a Management Committee consisting of relevant City personnel and representatives from community organizations.

Funding has been provided by City, State and Federal sources. Priorities for additional plans will be identified as the recommendations from the first chapters emerge.

The RFP is posted on the Department of City Planning's website, www.planpgh.com, the national and regional American Planning Association websites, and on the national American Society of Landscape Architects website. As a matter of public record, an announcement will be published in the Pittsburgh Courier and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette "Bids and Proposals" section. Notices were sent by email and by Postal Service to approximately 75 qualified consultant firms.

Proposals are due to City Planning by 4 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009. The Management Committee will review and score proposals beginning the first week of August, with plans to select a consultant in early September.

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MAYOR RAVENSTAHL AND VERIZON ANNOUNCE TENTATIVE AGREEMENT ON CABLE FRANCHISE FOR CITY OF PITTSBURGH

Date:  July 6, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Lee Gierczynski, Verizon, 412-633-5574
lee.j.gierczynski@verizon.com

(PITTSBURGH) July 6, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that a tentative agreement has been reached with Verizon Pennsylvania, Inc. on a cable franchise agreement for the City of Pittsburgh. The 10-year agreement is subject to the recommendation of the Cable Advisory Board and the approval of City Council.

"I am very pleased that the City and Verizon have reached an agreement that will pave the way for cable competition in Pittsburgh," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "For the first time in the City's history, Pittsburgh residents will have a choice in their cable provider."

Verizon is upgrading its network to provide a fiber-to-the-premises system, known as "FiOS," that will include telephone, internet and cable television services. According to federal law, Verizon must obtain a franchise from the City in order to provide television service.

Under the agreement, Verizon will deploy cable service throughout the entire City within six years. This deployment will occur in two phases. The first phase will cover at least 50 percent of the City within three years of the effective date of the agreement. The second phase will cover 100 percent of the City within six years of the effective date.

"This franchise agreement follows several months of intense negotiations between Verizon and City officials," said Gale Y. Given, president of Verizon Pennsylvania. "The resulting agreement charts the way for real, long-awaited TV choice and competition in Pittsburgh - a market Verizon has been proud to serve for more than a century. We're eager to bring the benefits of FiOS TV to City residents, and we urge the Cable Advisory Board and City Council to approve this agreement expeditiously."

As part of the agreement, Verizon will provide the City with an Institutional Network ("I-Net"), which is a high-speed private fiber-optic network that will enhance the City's public safety communications. The I-Net will be a critical tool for public safety, homeland security and disaster recovery.

Verizon has agreed to assist the City in enhancing public, educational and governmental ("PEG") channel access in Pittsburgh. This includes funding for the City's Cable Bureau, whose equipment is in need of replacement. The Cable Bureau produces the programming for the City's two government channels. In addition, the franchise agreement includes funding for Pittsburgh Community Television (PCTV), which is the administrator for programming on the City's public access channel. Verizon has also agreed to carry two additional PEG channels, one of which will be utilized as an educational channel.

"Allowing Verizon to offer their services to the residents of Pittsburgh will not only bring down the cost of services, but improve public safety through enhanced technology and educational programming," Mayor Ravenstahl said.

The agreement with Verizon also includes comprehensive customer service standards, such as credits for service outages, time frames for installations and service appointments, reporting requirements and customer complaint procedures. It includes franchise fee revenue to the City, audit and enforcement provisions, and important legal protections for the City.

Legislation for approval of the cable franchise agreement is expected to be introduced in City Council on July 7. There will also be a public hearing on the legislation.

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CITY OFFICES CLOSED TOMORROW, REFUSE COLLECTION WILL NOT BE AFFECTED

Date:  July 2, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 2, 2009 - City offices will be closed tomorrow, July 3, in honor of Independence Day. The City's Environmental Services refuse and recycling collection schedule will not change as a result of the holiday.

Residents with questions or concerns may contact the Environmental Services Division at 412-255-2773.

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MAYOR ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT #2 REPRESENTATIVE

Date:  July 1, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) July 1, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he is accepting applications for the Pittsburgh Public Schools Board District #2 representative position left vacant with the June 30, 2009 resignation of Heather Arnet. By law, the Mayor is responsible for appointing a replacement for the remainder of Ms. Arnet's term, which expires on December 5, 2011.

"I want to thank Heather Arnet for her numerous contributions during her tenure with the board," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "Ms. Arnet was devoted to student achievement and a champion of education, The Pittsburgh Promise and the City of Pittsburgh. Her replacement must possess these same values."

Candidates must be 18 years or older and live in District # 2 (map of District 2). Interested candidates should email a resume along with a letter of intent to pghschoolboard@city.pittsburgh.pa.us. The application period closes Friday, July 10, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.

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WESTERN PA ENERGY CONSORTIUM AWARDED 'GREEN POWER PARTNER' RECOGNITION

Date:  June 24, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) June 24, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato announced today that the Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium (WPEC) has been recognized as a Green Power Partner by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Green Power Partner status is awarded to organizations that purchase a minimum of 10% of their electricity from renewable energy sources and are reducing the risks associated with climate change by supporting sustainable technologies for businesses and communities.

The EPA chose the Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium as a Green Power Partner because of its success in greenhouse gas reduction. Over the course of five years, the consortium will purchase enough renewable energy electricity to reduce the groups' carbon emissions by 44,800 tons of CO2.

"The Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium demonstrates the success of the City and County jointly pursuing green practices, while at the same time saving taxpayer dollars," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "Purchasing green power not only cuts our carbon footprint, but helps to create a demand for renewable energy in this region, which will continue to grow the clean energy economy of southwestern Pennsylvania. I commend the consortium on this recognition."

"Allegheny County is committed to operating an efficient and sustainable government, and we are pleased that our joint energy purchasing consortium is being recognized as a success on several levels," said Onorato. "We are promoting sustainable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and saving taxpayers money. The next step is encouraging additional organizations to join in this effort."

In January 2008, WPEC successfully executed a joint purchase of 115 million kWh of electricity with a 10% renewable piece attached, saving taxpayers an estimated $1.4 million over a two-year period and resulting in creation of the Mayor's Green Initiative Trust Fund and the Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency for the City of Pittsburgh. The consortium and its renewable energy provision is also part of the County Executive's Allegheny Green Initiative, a comprehensive plan to promote sustainable practices within County government and through countywide policies and programs.

During the energy market's weakening in April 2009, the consortium extended its contract with Duquesne Light Energy to provide generation and transmission through May 2013. This contract includes increasing the yearly purchase to 125 million kWh and the green power purchase to 15%, or 18.8 million kWh, at a cost of 6.34 cents per kWh. This will result in an additional annual savings of $665,000 for the group.

The Mayor and County Executive have also expanded the program to include subsequent energy opportunities and are currently meeting with councils of governments and municipal managers for the next round of energy purchasing.

In 2007, Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh established the Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium - a region-wide energy cost and consumption reduction program consisting of accounts from the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pittsburgh Water & Sewer, the Sports & Exhibition Authority and the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. The aggregated accounts are used in a reverse auction energy purchase conducted through Co-Exprise, a Wexford-based technology and strategic sourcing company, in order to gain the best possible price of electricity in cents per kWh.

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CITY ORGANIZES SPECIAL REFUSE PICK-UP FOR FLOODED ITEMS

Date:  June 18, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) June 18, 2009 - Emergency management officials, public works crews and bureau of building inspectors have assessed the areas that have the most storm-related flood damage, and have organized a special refuse pick-up for affected residents on Saturday, June 20, from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

If residents have items that are flooded - appliances, furniture, etc. - they are to place them on the curb before 6:00 a.m. on Saturday.

The roads included on the pick-up are located in the "Down the Run" area of Greenfield, and Maryland Street in Shadyside. If you have flooded items that are not on these streets, you must call 311 to notify them of your need for Saturday pick-up.

If residents have any other questions or concerns, they are to call 311.

Rob Kaczorowski, public works deputy director of operations will be available for media interviews. He can be reached by cell 412-670-3489.

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MAYOR THANKS CITY FOR ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL VICTORY PARADE

Date:  June 15, 2009
Contact: Diane Richard, Bureau of Police, 412-323-7814
diane.richard@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) June 15, 2009 - Statistics from Stanley Cup victory parade.

• The parade attendance was estimated to be 375,000 in attendance.
• There were 23 calls for medical service and 2 transports with non-life-threatening conditions. People were not properly hydrated, became overheated requiring medical assistance.
• There were 2 Arrests: One (1) Disorderly Conduct and One (1) Sales of T-Shirts without a license. These were issued as Summary Offences.
• One missing 13 year old boy from Holy Family Institute. The child has been located and returned to the group.
• Barricades are currently being removed and the streets will be open for rush hour traffic.

The Mayor's Office informed that costs related to the parade are not available at this time. That information will be made available next week once the costs are calculated.

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MEDIA PROTOCOL, ROAD CLOSURES FOR TODAY'S VICTORY PARADE

Date:  June 15, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Parade Road Closings

(PITTSBURGH) - Today's victory parade honoring the Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins will commence at 12:00 noon and take the same route as last February's Super Bowl parade. Proceeding through Grant Street, the parade will loop to the Boulevard of the Allies and end at Stanwix Street where a stage celebration will be held. A "jumbotron" will be set up behind the stage to give fans a better view of the players' celebration.

There will be media access in front of the stage. All media must be wearing station identification in order to be allowed in this area.

The only media available in the parade route are still photographers and videographers. This, however, will be limited to one photographer per print outlet, and one videographer per TV outlet. Those individuals having such access must be credentialed. Please email Joanna Doven the name of your media representative to be credentialed before 9 a.m. Monday.

The credentials are to be picked up from Joanna Doven at 10:30 a.m. in front of the stage located at the Boulevard of the Allies and Stanwix Street. Please note that to ensure a safe parade, there will be no reporters and fans allowed in the parade route. Public safety personnel will not allow anyone in the parade route unless they are credentialed.

Barricades will be set up throughout the route to ensure the safety of fans and players. The City encourages all fans to take public transportation and to come well hydrated, as temperatures may reach above 80 degrees. If driving is necessary, fans are encouraged to park on the periphery of downtown.

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RAVENSTAHL, ONORATO DECLARE PITTSBURGH THE 'CITY OF CHAMPIONS'

Victory parade honoring the Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins to be held Monday, June 15, at 12 noon

Date:  June 15, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Parade Road Closings

(PITTSBURGH) June 15, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato today announced plans to honor the Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins with a City of Champions' victory parade through downtown Pittsburgh Monday, June 15, starting at 12:00 noon at the intersection of Grant Street and Seventh Avenue.

"No words can describe the history-making comeback achieved by our team," Ravenstahl said. "No one believed that this could be done, that we could win on the road and defy history, and that the League's youngest captain could make it happen," Ravenstahl said. "On Monday, let's show the world how the City of Champions' welcomes home their Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins."

"Monday's parade will be a great opportunity for this region to honor and celebrate this amazing Penguins team for bringing the Stanley Cup back home," Onorato said.

The parade will commence at 12:00 noon and take the same route as last February's Super Bowl parade. Proceeding through Grant Street, the parade will loop to the Boulevard of the Allies and end at Stanwix Street where a stage celebration will be held. A media reviewing stand will be set up near the stage.

Barricades will be set up throughout the parade route to ensure the safety of fans and players. The City encourages all fans to take public transportation. If driving is necessary, fans are encouraged to park on the periphery of downtown.

Parking and set-up for media trucks and reporters will be the same as the Super Bowl parade. Additional information on protocol will be sent tomorrow, including media set-up time.

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RAVENSTAHL & ONORATO ANNOUNCE STANLEY CUP RALLY AT NOON ON FRI. JUNE 12

Mayor & County Executive Declare Tomorrow "Black & Gold Day"

Date:  June 11, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Kevin Evanto, 412-350-3171
(mobile) 412-352-4075
kevin.evanto@alleghenycounty.us

(PITTSBURGH) - Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced a "Penguins Final March to the Cup Rally" at 12:00 noon on Fri., June 12, on Forbes Avenue between the County Courthouse and City-County Building.

There will be live entertainment provided by Kardaz, face painting, and several fan contests that will help rally the crowd as the Pens take on the Red Wings in Detroit for the final Stanley Cup playoff game.

Fans may participate in one of several contests where the first prize winners may receive: gift certificates to Panera Bread; County pool, skating and golf passes; and the ultimate prize of a summer get-away for two at Seven Springs Mountain Resort which will include a one night stay and free recreational activities.

• Best Pens playoff sign
• Best Pens playoff slogan
• Best Stanley Cup creation
• Best Pens playoff beard
• Best Pens look-a-like
• Best Pens outfit

The MC and crowd will be judging the contest.

The Mayor and County Executive have declared Friday "Black & Gold Day" and are encouraging fans to show their pride by donning the team's colors tomorrow.

The County Executive and Mayor are also asking those attending the rally to bring a canned good, non-perishable food item, or cash donation, which will be donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Please note that Forbes Avenue will be closed between Ross and Grant streets between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. tomorrow. Port Authority buses using Forbes Avenue will detour during this time.

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ONORATO & RAVENSTAHL ANNOUNCE STANLEY CUP RALLY AT NOON ON TUES. JUNE 9

Mayor & County Executive Declare Tomorrow "Black & Gold Day"

Date:  June 8, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Kevin Evanto, 412-350-3171
(mobile) 412-352-4075
kevin.evanto@alleghenycounty.us

(PITTSBURGH) - Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced a "Penguins March to the Cup Rally" at 12:00 noon on Tues., June 9, on Forbes Avenue between the County Courthouse and City-County Building.

The rally will be emceed by Val Porter from the WDVE Morning Show, and there will be live entertainment provided by Kardaz and the Jimmy Adler Band, as well as the Thomas Jefferson High School Marching Band. Several area high school cheerleading teams who share black and gold as team colors will also be on hand to help rally the crowd.

Qdoba Mexican Grill will offer free chili BBQ pulled pork burritos, which have come to be known as lucky burritos because they are eaten by Penguins Coach Dan Bylsma before each winning home game. Shearer's Foods will provide tortilla, whole grain and kettle cooked chips. Turkey Hill will treat the crowd to ice cream, and Eat'n Park will provide black & gold smiley cookies. The Penguins mascot, Iceburgh, Eat'n Park's mascot, Pittsburgh Smiley, and face painters will also be on hand.

The Mayor and County Executive have declared Tuesday "Black & Gold Day" and are encouraging fans to show their pride by donning the team's colors tomorrow.

The County Executive and Mayor are also asking those attending the rally to bring a canned good, non-perishable food item, or cash donation, which will be donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Please note that Forbes Avenue will be closed between Ross and Grant streets between 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. tomorrow. Port Authority buses using Forbes Avenue will detour during this time.

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MAYOR PICKS SIX TO ATTEND GAMES 3 AND 4 OF STANLEY CUP FINALS

Lucky children will attend games with Mayor

Date:  June 1, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Winning Essays

(PITTSBURGH) June 1, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl this evening announced the names of the six lucky City of Pittsburgh youngsters who will be joining him at games three and four of the Stanley Cup Finals at Mellon Arena. Cheering on the Pens with the Mayor on Tuesday will be Paige Meyer, Michael McInerney, and Ashley Suchy; on Thursday, Sarah Rady, Noah Khorey and Kelsi Rae Meade.

"There were so many great entries that I decided to pick six winners," said the Mayor.

The Mayor's office received hundreds of entries - most were emailed, many were faxed and a few were dropped off at City Hall.

City of Pittsburgh residents between the ages 10 - 14 were eligible to enter the essay contest. In honor of Sidney Crosby's number, entrants were to tell the Mayor in "87" words or less why they were "proud to be from Pittsburgh." By submitting an entry, parents gave permission for their child to attend the game with the Mayor, and will be required to sign a consent form.

Deadline for entries was today at 5 p.m. The Mayor personally called each of the six winners this evening.

The winning entries will be posted on the City of Pittsburgh website tomorrow morning. Tickets are provided courtesy of the Sports and Exhibition Authority.

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MAYOR LAUNCHES PARKS ARE FREE INITIATIVE

Date:  June 1, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Link to parksarefree.com

(PITTSBURGH) June 1, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, Allegheny Regional Asset District, and UPMC Health Plan today launched a co-branded effort, Parks Are Free, and a related website to encourage City residents to get out to the more than 2,000 acres and 33 trail miles of City park spaces.

"The City of Pittsburgh boasts a phenomenal park system which is a key element of what makes Pittsburgh America's most livable city," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "This summer a lot of families are trying to save money so it's the perfect time to take advantage of our parks - they're close by, in great shape and they're free."

"There is no better place to relax, exercise, or spend time with family than in these green gems that are so well-placed throughout the city," said Meg Cheever, president and CEO of the Parks Conservancy. "Our goal with this campaign is to draw even more people into the parks and establish a pattern of use and appreciation for these assets that really are the envy of many major cities."

More than 200 free events planned for this summer can be found on the new user-friendly website, parksarefree.com, which was created by the group to make it easy for residents to locate all that is going on in the parks in one place. The site acts as a portal to a calendar of events on the Parks Conservancy site with links to other popular summer activities on the Citiparks website. The online calendar includes free and fee-based activities presented by Citiparks, the Parks Conservancy and many other organizations. The site will work in conjunction with Citiparks' annual Summer Magazine publication, which includes information about events, activities and facilities in the parks.

Examples of upcoming free activities on the calendar include: Riverview Park Heritage Day on June 13; Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch in Mellon Park on June 21; and the WYEP Summer Music Festival in Schenley Plaza on June 26.

The Regional Asset District is the major funder of the City's four regional parks. David L. Donahoe, executive director of the Allegheny Regional Asset District, said. "Our parks and trails provide no-cost recreation that is essential to our region's vitality. From active sports to quiet nature observation, our parks and trails provide great spaces for healthy minds and bodies. RAD is pleased to be a part of encouraging the public to get out and use their great parks."

The summer-long campaign is being sponsored by UPMC Health Plan. "Parks are a wonderful source of healthy relaxation and exercise," said Jeff Nelson, vice president of marketing communications for UPMC Health Plan, "and we are very pleased to support this major effort to get Pittsburgh's residents outside and active, enjoying our wonderful park system."

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is a non-profit organization that works in partnership with the city to restore park features and provide environmental stewardship of the four major city parks (Frick, Highland, Riverview and Schenley). Since 1996, the Parks Conservancy has raised over $40 million for the purpose of parks restoration and improvement and has completed 9 major capital projects.

Through 2008, the Allegheny Regional Asset District (ARAD) has provided nearly $68 million in grants for the City's four major parks, to fund every day maintenance and support capital projects like resurfacing, wall and step repair, and restroom, tennis court and playground renovations.

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MAYOR LAUNCHES ESSAY CONTEST TO ATTEND GAMES 3 AND 4 OF STANLEY CUP FINALS

4 lucky children will attend games with Mayor

Date:  May 29, 2009

(PITTSBURGH) May 29, 2009 - Mayor Ravenstahl today announced that he will be taking four lucky children to see the Penguins battle the Red Wings in games 3 and 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals at Mellon Arena. Two children will get to attend the game with the Mayor on Tuesday and two on Thursday of next week.

The Mayor is holding an essay contest for City of Pittsburgh residents, ages 10 -14. The theme of the contest is "Why I'm proud to be from Pittsburgh."

"I remember what a thrill it was watching Lemieux and Jagr win the Stanley Cup when I was that age and how incredibly proud I felt to be from Pittsburgh," said the Mayor. "When I was growing up I didn't have the chance to attend the Penguins games so I wanted to give that opportunity to other kids that age who normally wouldn't get to go."

The contest rules: In honor of Sidney Crosby's number, tell the Mayor in "87" words or less why you are proud to be from Pittsburgh. All entrants must be between the ages of 10 - 14 and live in the City of Pittsburgh. All entries must include name, phone number, address and birth date. Entries may be submitted online at www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us, faxed to 412-255-2687, or dropped off at the Mayor's Office, City-County Building, 5th floor, 414 Grant St. in downtown Pittsburgh. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2009. The four winners will be notified by telephone between 7- 8 p.m. Monday night.

Games begin at 8 p.m. By submitting an entry, parents are giving permission for their child to attend the game with the Mayor, and will be required to sign a consent form.

Tickets are provided courtesy of the Sports and Exhibition Authority.

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CITY BREAKS GROUND IN GARFIELD

Third phase of Garfield Homeownership Choice development moves forward

Date:  May 27, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) May 27, 2009 - The City of Pittsburgh and development partners Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation broke ground today for the third phase of the Garfield Homeownership Choice housing development, in the Garfield neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh.

"Home ownership is a key ingredient in rebuilding our neighborhoods," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "Owning a home builds a sense of community, instilling pride and improving public safety through block watches. This project provides quality affordable home ownership opportunities for existing and potential City residents."

"The Homeownership Choice Project is so gratifying because it enables folks to build equity and brings wealth to the community," said Aggie Brose, deputy director, Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation.

Garfield Homeownership Choice is a 50-unit multi-phase single family for-sale housing development along Broad, Winebiddle, and Dearborn streets, managed by the Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation, with assistance from Garfield-Jubilee Association.

Phase III, a $2.2 million investment, consists of seven units, ranging from 1,300 to 1,400 square feet. Each has three bedrooms, 2 baths and an integral garage or parking pad. Units also include wood front porches, treated wood rear decks, air conditioning, security systems, and Energy Star efficiency. Prices range from $137,500 to $139,500. URA Second Deferred Mortgages are available to those with incomes that qualify.

Thirty-one (31) units have already been completed and sold to qualified buyers, ranging from 80% to 115% of the area median income. Construction on Phase III is expected for completion in 2011.

"I never seriously believed that I could own a brand-new home," a Garfield Homeownership Choice homeowner said. "Every apartment that I ever lived in had problems. Having a home that would not need me to always be fixing things has given me and my family a peace of mind we never had before."

The project was awarded $1 million from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency for the Homeownership Choice Demonstration Project in Garfield. The URA participated with $1.3 million in financing. Additional project funding has been made available by Parkvale Bank and PNC Bank.

"When the agency developed the Homeownership Choice Program in 2000 the Garfield community was the perfect urban setting where pockets of vacant land could indeed be transformed into viable attractive places to live," Brenda Wells, director of western region, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency said. "With a strong development team who has remained committed over the past eight years, PHFA's $1 million dollar investment remains rock solid yet seems small in comparison to the growing dollars leveraged in the neighborhood and beyond to the surrounding communities."

Design work was completed by Tai + Lee Architects and Hanson Design Group. Construction will be done by Catranel Construction.

Homes are available for sale by contacting the Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation or Garfield Jubilee Association.

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MAYOR LAUNCHES SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

A record 554 youths to be employed

Date:  May 26, 2009
Contact: PSYEP Contact Numbers, 412-552-7129,
412-552-7127

(PITTSBURGH) May 26, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today officially launched the 2009 Pittsburgh Summer Youth Employment Program (PSYEP) that will run from July 6 through August 14, 2009. This year, a record 554 youths will be employed, thanks to $1 million in stimulus (ARRA) dollars, $150,000 from The Pittsburgh Foundation and $500,000 in Community Development Block Grant money allocated by the Mayor.

"My goal for this year's Summer Youth Employment Program was to hire more than 500 youths and with this additional funding, we'll be able to do just that," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "I want to thank Jane Downing and The Pittsburgh Foundation for once again generously supporting this program that helps our youths use the summer to make a difference in their lives and in the City."

The highly successful program for economically disadvantaged youths will be split 50/50 between two employment tracts. One tract consists of conservation/field work, which includes outdoor jobs such as restoration and conservation of City parks, public property and vacant lots; the other tract utilizes internships, including general office work in a variety of businesses.

Said the Mayor, "I wanted to include internships so that our youths have the opportunity to experience on the-job-training firsthand. By reaching out to local youths and providing them with job opportunities and work skills, we're setting them on the road to a lifetime of success."

The program runs 30 hours/week, 6 hours/day during typical business hours at a pay rate of $7.25/hour. All youths will receive an additional 18 hours of Work Readiness Training - called JumpStart Success. Success staff will help students define their career goals and teach them the interview skills and behavior necessary to succeed in the working world. Now, students will leave the six-week PSYEP with money in their pockets and a certificate that ensures they know how to conduct themselves in a professional work environment.

City of Pittsburgh youths who will be at least 14 years of age and no older than 21 years of age by July 6 may apply. Workforce Investment Act (WIA) eligibility is required for participation.

Interested youths may apply between May 26 and June 10, 2009. Applications can be downloaded from www.pittsburghpartnership.org, www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us or www.trwib.org, and may also be picked up at any of the five application site centers, which are new this year. (A list of site locations follows). All interested youths must physically take the completed applications, along with required documents stated in the guidelines, to one of the centers before Wednesday, June 10, 2009 to be considered for the program. No applications will be accepted at the City-County Building; no applications will be accepted after June 10. After eligibility is confirmed, all youths will be categorized by zip code to ensure that all areas of the City are included, and selection will be through a random lottery.

The purpose of the Pittsburgh Summer Youth Employment Program is to keep youths safe during the summer months by providing them with opportunities to earn money, learn through on-the-job training, develop a strong work ethic and gain a sense of community.

"Many of the high school students that participated during the summer of 2008 mentioned that PSYEP helped them improve skills that are not taught in school," said Tamica Mickle, regional program manager for the Student Conservation Association, which operated the program last year. "PSYEP also served as an outlet for a lot of students because the work experience linked them to outdoor opportunities in the parks within their communities."

At the end of the six weeks, one PSYEP participant - Dayshon Scott - summed up the impact of the program perfectly: "My six weeks here were unforgettable - this job built character and responsibility. The program also kept me out of trouble and off the streets."

Under Mayor Ravenstahl, the Summer Youth Employment Program has seen tremendous growth. In 2007, PSYEP operated under a budget of $550,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds allocated by the Mayor, and employed 197 youth. In 2008, the program's budget increased to $837,000 with $500,000 in CDBG money from the Mayor and additional funds provided by The Pittsburgh Foundation, ICA and the City's Housing Authority, and employed 272 youth.

Applications must be turned in at one of the following locations:

Brashear Association, Inc.
730 East Warrington Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15210
412.390.3588

Northside Leadership Conference
East Commons Professional Building
4 Allegheny Center, Suite 601
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
412.330.2551

Career Workforce Development Center East
YMCA Homewood
7140 Bennett St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15208
412.241.2811

YouthLINK (South)
Goodwill Building
2600 E. Carson St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
412.390.2289

YouthLINK/East Neighborhood Employment Center
5321 Penn Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
412.362.8580

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RAVENSTAHL WAGES PLAYOFF BET WITH RALEIGH MAYOR

Date:  May 18, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) May 18, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker today agreed to the terms of a friendly wager on the outcome of the Penguins/Hurricanes Eastern Conference finals.

If the Hurricanes best the Penguins, Ravenstahl will send Meeker Pittsburghers' favorite local food items including: five pounds of Islay's chipped ham, three dozen potato and cheese pierogies, and a case of Iron City Beer. Meeker must donate the food items to a local food bank of his choice.

If the Penguins win, Meeker will send Ravenstahl 10 pounds of world famous Carolina barbeque and a case of locally brewed Big Boss Beer. Ravenstahl will donate the food items to the Pittsburgh Greater Community Food Bank.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank enjoy some Southern hospitality as a result of the Penguins winning the series," Ravenstahl said.

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MAYOR, COMMUNITY LEADERS CUT RIBBON FOR CITY'S FIRST "SPRAY PARK"

Mayor officially activates the first 'sprinkler', announces that four more communities will receive the 21st-Century pool

Date:  May 16, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) May 16, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and community leaders today gathered to celebrate the opening of the City's newest aquatic facility - a "spray park" in Troy Hill.

The 3,600-square-foot facility is the first such recreation facility located within Allegheny County. The spray park is located adjacent to the Cowley Playground on Goettman Street at the site of a former swimming pool.

"Spray parks are sprouting up in communities across the country and for good reason since they offer a multitude of advantages over traditional swimming pools," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "For years to come, children will have an opportunity to cool off during the hot days of summer at this beautiful new facility, which will offer free recreation for the residents of Pittsburgh."

The Mayor - who led the countdown and activated the new world of water - noted that since the spray park will operate via manual or sensor activated control systems, it will offer an extended operating season from late spring to early fall, before and after a traditional swimming pool opens and closes for the summer. Although the park will require minimal adult supervision, certified lifeguards will not be mandatory.

Councilwoman Darlene Harris said, "What a wonderful way to bring a neighborhood together - children, water, and fun! Troy Hill has a long history as a close-knit family area. With this splash park, their new Heart of Troy Hill plans, tourist attractions such as St. Anthony's Chapel, and the great view, this neighborhood is certainly one of the City's shining stars."

Project architect James Sauer, principal of J.T. Sauer & Associates, said, "The Troy Hill Spray Park features an exciting world of unpredictable sprayers and above/below ground water features," Sauer said. "Children don't necessarily need swimming skills to enjoy the benefits of spray parks. From the tiniest toddler to a pre-teen adventurer, and even those using wheelchairs, children of all ages and abilities can enter with equal enthusiasm."

According to Mayor Ravenstahl, "The Troy Hill Spray Park will brighten this City of Pittsburgh neighborhood and turn an open space into a three-dimensional world of water. For many, it will bring back memories of running through sprinklers...but this time with a lot more fun, color and movement."

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, area residents gathered for refreshments and an opportunity to splash on the grounds at a community celebration sponsored by Citizens Bank.

The City of Pittsburgh has appropriated funds for four future spray parks in Beltzhoover, Beechview, East Hills and Mellon Park. Community leaders from those areas came to check out the recreational amenity their youths will receive.

Monique Shorter, President of the 2nd East Hills Preservation and Development Corporation Residents Council said, "The East Hills community is excited and looking forward to the groundbreaking on our new spray park. It is a way for the community to engage our children in positive activities, to keep cool in the summertime and have a safe, fun, splashing good time!"

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WIGHTMAN AND BEACON STREETS RECEIVE BIKE LANES

Date:  May 14, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) May 14, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City has added two more sets of bike lanes on segments of Wightman Street and Beacon Street in Squirrel Hill.

"More people are riding bicycles in our City than ever before, and we're doing what we can to make their riding experiences safer," Ravenstahl said. "These bike lanes will connect more neighborhoods with the parks, promote safe transportation alternatives, and further green our City."

Only bicycles are permitted to use the lanes. Automobiles are only permitted to cross the lane in order to utilize on-street parking or when the bicycle lane is segmented, usually at cross street intersections.

"I'm happy to see that the Mayor is fulfilling his commitment to making this City more bike-friendly and even more livable," said Scott Bricker, executive director of Bike Pittsburgh. "I hope that motorists will take note of these new markings and respect our space on the streets."

As a reminder, cyclists are permitted to ride on all City streets unless prohibited by signage. Although the City recommends that all cyclists ride in bicycle lanes (when provided/available), cyclists may choose to ride in the bicycle lanes or traffic lanes, based on their comfort level. Motorists should expect cyclists to safely exit the bicycle lanes to perform turning movements similar to vehicle turns at intersections and side street access points.

Under Mayor Ravenstahl, new bike lanes - the first two sets in the City of Pittsburgh - were striped on East Liberty Boulevard and Liberty Avenue. The City's first-ever bicycle and pedestrian coordinator, Stephen Patchan, was hired and is working hard to make City neighborhoods safer for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists. The Mayor announced several bike/ped initiatives last August which addressed a spectrum of traffic, engineering and infrastructure improvements designed to protect cyclists and pedestrians. In January 2009, the Mayor introduced legislation to City Council to make it easier for property and business owners to install bicycle racks in the public right-of-way by simplifying the application process. Ravenstahl hopes to swiftly improve bicycle and pedestrian conditions in the City and plans on applying for "bicycle friendly status" in 2010.

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MAYOR WELCOMES FIRST RESIDENTS INTO PIATT PLACE

New downtown dwellers take advantage of the Mayor's tax abatement to move into $70 million mixed-used development

Date:  May 12, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) May 12, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today cut the ribbon on the residential portion of Piatt Place, a $70 million mixed-use development of the former Lazarus Building that anchors the Fifth Forbes redevelopment area in Downtown.

"Downtown is the center of our region and for far too long it has functioned solely as a business hub," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "Developments like Piatt Place have begun to change that, bringing vibrancy and new energy to center city."

Piatt Place is a mixed use development, built by Millcraft Industries, that includes 50,000 square feet of retail space, 180,000 square feet of commercial office space, and 60 luxury residential condos. Current tenants include McCormick & Schmick's, TD Ameritrade, Capital Grille, and the executive and administrative offices for Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

"Piatt Place is the cornerstone of our $350 million development plan for the city of Pittsburgh and success here allows us to move strongly forward with the vision of a true 24/7 city. I am extremely proud of the positive changes that the city has undergone over the past three years," Lucas Piatt, Executive Vice President, Millcraft Industries said. "The great thing is that all of the development happening here is organic, local developers and property owners that are committed to making progress, our hearts are tied to projects like this. We aren't going to leave town when challenges present themselves."

Construction of the residential units was completed in January 2009, and residents have now begun to move in. Units range in price from $345,000 to $2 million. 34 of the 60 units have been sold.

The building includes a floor-to-ceiling natural-light atrium, street-level retail boutiques and restaurants. The second through fourth floors feature Class A+ office space that is being constructed as LEED certified, to accommodate the business requirements for the executive and administrative offices for the Commonwealth of PA. Private access to the upper levels reveals luxury rooftop condos with outdoor roof top terraces, a central courtyard, and condominiums with expansive exterior balconies that provide panoramic vistas of the city.

Residents of the condominiums enjoy a 10 year tax abatement program which was shepherded by Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. Condo buyers don't have to pay real estate taxes on the first $250,000 of their purchase, saving them up to $6,100 a year for 10 years. In Downtown, 241 units are taking advantage of the program.

"We are so excited to make Piatt Place our new home. We have wanted to move into downtown for years, but couldn't find the right place. When we took a look at Piatt Place - we knew it was perfect," Tom Bakaitus and Beth Bershok new residents moving into Piatt Place, said. "The tax abatement program sealed the deal for us; we actually save time and money by living in the city".

Millcraft Industries credits the success of Piatt Place to a strong public private partnership. The development received support from the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and the Strategic Investment Fund.

When Lazarus left Downtown in 2004, an anchor development was needed to spearhead the Fifth and Forbes redevelopment corridor, now called the 5th and Market Project. Piatt Place is being closely followed by several other high-profiled green and LEED certified developments such as the redevelopment of the former GC Murphy building on Market Square and the redevelopment of the State Office Building that will infuse the city with renewed energy, job creation and new opportunity.

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MAYOR PLEASED WITH RESULTS OF CITY'S 2008 FINANCIAL AUDIT

Date:  May 1, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) May 1, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that he was pleased with the results of the City's 2008 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). The CAFR, released this afternoon, is a yearly audit of the City's financial health and is performed by an outside auditor.

Highlights of the CAFR show that the City finished 2008 with a general fund balance of $52.9 million - $32.1 million more than was forecasted in the 2009 Budget. In addition, the City's outstanding debt decreased by $41 million.

"This audit once again shows that when third-party experts take a look at our balance sheets, they are continually impressed with our responsible approach to fiscal management." Ravenstahl said. "By holding the line on spending, we've built a hefty savings account so that we can pay down debt and invest in top-of-the-line public safety tools for our officers."

The City has also taken additional steps to shore up its reserves, with the 2008 transfer of $45 million into the Debt Service Restricted Fund, and an additional $27 million into the Pay-as-you-go Capital Improvement Fund. The 2008 year end balance for each of those funds was $48.5 million and $79.2 million, respectively.

Said the Mayor, "In this troubled economy, when many cities are eliminating services and laying off employees, Pittsburgh is investing in its neighborhoods."

The Mayor also noted that while pension costs remain a serious cause for concern in the out years, he is doing everything he can to address it now.

The Mayor's local actions include: budgeting an additional five percent above the minimum municipal obligation payment for each year of the five year budget plan; reducing the assumed actuarial rate of return from 8.75 percent to 8 percent; restructuring the amortization schedule; and, creating a voluntary defined contribution program for new, non-union employees. Recently, the City hired a consultant to study the feasibility of monetizing the City's parking system. All potential revenue would be pumped into the City's beleaguered pension fund.

Last Monday, the Mayor held his fourth Pension Summit in Harrisburg, where he laid out his Four Point Plan for Pension Reform to state legislators.

"Pittsburgh has done everything in its power to improve our pension fund. Now, we can look to our legislators in Harrisburg and ask them to do everything in their power in order to keep the promise to our workers and residents."

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MAYOR'S VISION FOR ALLEGHENY RIVERFRONT UNDERWAY

Mayor shows community former steel site now ready for development before first planning meeting tomorrow

Date:  April 28, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 28, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today stood on a bulldozed 21-acre former steel site next to the Highland Park Bridge, kicking off the master planning process to reconnect the Allegheny river with nearby neighborhoods. That site, once home to Tippins International Inc. steel, sat vacant until the Urban Redevelopment Authority this year purchased and demolished the property.

"Today, we stand on one end of the Allegheny riverfront that has seen dramatic changes in less than one year," Ravenstahl said. "As we work hard to free up land for riverfront development, I'm excited to see the community roll up their sleeves and rally around a planning process that will ultimately figure out the best way to reconnect our rivers with our neighborhoods."

The URA last month hired Perkins Eastman to conduct the $350,000 master plan after receiving 24 proposals. A steering committee, comprised of staff from the URA, Department of City Planning, and Riverlife, along with property owners, developers, and community representatives, will hold their first planning meeting on Wednesday, April 29, 2009.

Community members will then be invited to participate in a series of design discussions, public meetings, and recreational activities designed to reacquaint them with the riverfront over the course of the next year.

"When it comes to distinctive urban waterfronts, the Allegheny Riverfront is as exciting an opportunity as any location in the country," said Lisa Schroeder, Riverlife executive director. "We applaud the City for involving the community in a planning process that will better connect the river into the heart of the City."

A consultant team led by Perkins Eastman will spearhead the visioning process for the 6.45 mile segment of the Allegheny Riverfront stretching from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center to Highland Park, including a small under-developed section of the northwest bank of the Allegheny River.

This planning effort is the latest project which will complete a ten-year riverfront visioning and investment process. Significant investments in riverfront parks over the last ten years have created a strong incentive for riverfront economic development.

"The Allegheny's edge, along with its associated communities, can be a primary thread that connects its distinct neighborhoods and becomes a key amenity in their future development," Stephen Quick, FAIA, Principal, Perkins Eastman said. "We are thrilled to be working on this vision plan that links the Allegheny to its neighborhoods and downtown, and can also become the precedent for other city riverfront neighborhoods."

The team is comprised of Perkins Eastman, and Urbanomics for urban design and planning; GSP Consulting for market assessment and development; Cahill Associates, Viridian Landscape Studio, and Continental Conservation on environmental and infrastructure design and planning; and Trans Associates and Clear View Strategies for transportation design and planning.

The final plan will be incorporated into, and serve as a model for, the City's comprehensive riverfront master plan, scheduled for completion in 2010.

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MAYOR INTRODUCES LEGISLATION FOR WEB BASED PERMITTING SYSTEM

Date:  April 28, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 28, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today introduced legislation authorizing the City to implement a comprehensive Web-based permitting system.

The City will invest $1.3 million dollars and enter into an agreement with Accela, Inc. who will create and implement the software to transform the walk-in permitting operation into a Web-based system. Residents and businesses will be able to apply for and pay for most permits online and track the approval process from beginning to end.

A single database will be used by multiple personnel within City departments and agencies to streamline the permitting process, track customer service and increase responsiveness.

"This technology investment will allow us to deliver services more effectively and efficiently, bringing more economic development to our neighborhoods," Ravenstahl said.

The system will calculate the permit fee, provide a tracking number for the application, store related photos and drawings, and "push out" the application for others to perform related aspects of the licensing review such as ensuring proper zoning or fire and occupancy codes.

It will take 12 to 18 months to transform the day-to-day operations before going live with the comprehensive software.

City departments receive approximately 160,000 applications annually for permits and business licenses that generate over $13 million in fees.

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MAYOR CONVENES FOURTH PENSION SUMMIT IN HARRISBURG

Date:  April 27, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Charts visualizing pension fund losses, the Mayor's pension actions, and the decline of state pension aid to Pittsburgh 

(PITTSBURGH) April 27, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today convened his fourth Pension Summit, bringing together Pennsylvania Mayors and legislators in Harrisburg to discuss the legislative action needed to move forward with his Four Point Plan for Pension Reform.

"We've made great progress since I brought together leaders across the state for the first Summit more than two years ago," Ravenstahl said. "Pittsburgh has done everything in its power to improve our pension fund. Now, we can look to our legislators in Harrisburg and ask them to do everything in their power in order to keep the promise to our workers and residents."

At 9:30 a.m., the Mayor hosted a breakfast meeting with the Mayor's of Philadelphia, Allentown and Reading. The leaders reminisced on past pension discussions from previous summits, noting that the need for pension reform is more urgent now. In 2008, Pittsburgh's pension fund lost nearly $93 million, Pennsylvania pension funds lost $28 billion, and all state municipal pension funds lost $865 billion.

"Since our last Summit, our nation has faced the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression and pensions across the state have experienced significant losses," Ravenstahl said. "More than ever, leadership is needed now to encourage that statewide action is taken."

Mayor Ravenstahl's Four Point Plan for Pension Reform was created after hosting two pension summits which brought together statewide mayors, city managers, and academics. The Mayor's plan, built on consensus, was adopted by the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities last year and calls for: preventing spiking; allowing and encouraging defined contribution and hybrid plans; the equitable revision of the state pension funding formula; and allowing for the consolidation of plans.

"We have asked our partners in Harrisburg to craft these four points into meaningful legislation," Ravenstahl said. "But we must be realistic in our expectations, and make sure that we put something on the table that we can encourage legislators to pass."

At any given time there are 10 to 20 pension bills being considered; since 2003, the legislature has heard 124 pension bills.

The Mayor and his colleagues decided to focus legislation on tackling the first two points of the plan. The former would eliminate employees from spiking their overtime pay in order to skew pension payments. The latter would allow cities, such as Pittsburgh, to offer defined contribution and hybrid plans to more employees. Legislation will be introduced before summer.

"Focusing on these two points puts us on the right side of this very important debate," Ravenstahl said. "We've already taken the action here to offer defined contribution plans to our employees, but we are only able to give less than two percent of our workforce the choice. We must be able to offer this to all employees."

After the breakfast, the Mayor's convened a lunch with nearly 50 state legislators who were briefed on the Summit's progress and asked for support with regard to the upcoming pension reform legislation.

The Mayor laid out the actions he has taken locally to heal the City's pension fund which include: budgeting an additional five percent above the minimum municipal obligation payment for each year of the five year budget plan; reducing the assumed actuarial rate of return from 8.75 percent to 8 percent; restructuring the amortization schedule; and, creating a voluntary defined contribution program for new, non-union employees. Recently, the City hired a consultant to study the feasibility of monetizing the City's parking system. All potential revenue would be pumped into the City's beleaguered pension fund.

The Mayor's also urged legislators to consider legislative action on the remaining parts of the plan which include revising the statewide pension fund formula and allowing for the consolidation of plans.

"Pennsylvania has four times as many plans than any other state," Ravenstahl said. "We need to merge these smaller plans that create a massive monetary and administrative burden."

There are currently more than 3,100 local government pension plans in the state.

"As Mayors of large cities with under under-funded pensions, we also ask you to consider meaningful changes to the state pension funding formula," Ravenstahl said.

The Mayors envision such changes as ensuring that no municipality currently receiving state aid experiences a drop in state aid. State pension aid to Pittsburgh, for example, has decreased by $9 million since 1989, though the total state allocation has increased to more than $200 million during the same time period.

"We will continue to work collaboratively with our colleagues across the state to solve together a problem that is faced by all," Ravenstahl said.

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CITY MOVES FORWARD WITH DAVIS AVENUE BRIDGE DEMOLITION

Public Safety Director Huss to answer questions at 2:30 p.m. today

Date:  April 27, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 27, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City issued a preliminary "Notice to Proceed" to Controlled Demolition Incorporated for the demolition of the Davis Avenue Bridge. The cost will be covered through the City's capital budget and is not to exceed $758,000, with the final terms still being negotiated.

Preparation for demolition is already underway, with utilities relocation that began last week to ensure that the site is safe for demolition. Implosion will take place approximately 10 - 14 days from today, following the completion of utilities relocation and placement of protective soil and cushion over the sidewalks and road surface of Woods Run Avenue. Once the bridge is felled it will take approximately 17 - 19 working days for removal of debris.

Steps will be taken to mitigate damage to residents' homes, including the placement of geotextile fabric on selected adjacent properties. Given the nature of the detonation of explosives, there may be minor damage to adjacent properties (i.e. window breakage).

Displaced residents were notified of the need to temporarily relocate on April 22 and are being given a stipend of $200 per day until it is safe to return to their homes. The displaced residents received their first check on Friday, April 24 to cover the time period from April 22 - 24 and will be paid weekly, with the next check to be issued on May 1.

The Mayor issued a Declaration of Emergency on April 21 for the immediate demolition of the Davis Avenue Bridge and the coordination of necessary emergency response activities to protect the health, safety and welfare of affected residents. The City's engineering consultant, Michael Baker, Jr., Inc. issued a preliminary report indicating that the structure is in danger of collapse and recommended the bridge be immediately closed to pedestrian traffic, and that the area beneath it on Woods Run Road be immediately closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The report also recommends that the bridge be demolished as soon as possible. The 110-year-old bridge, located in the City's North Side, connects the Brighton Heights neighborhood to Riverview Park and has been closed to vehicular traffic since 2001.

Public Safety Director Michael Huss will be available to answer questions at 2:30 p.m. this afternoon in the hall outside of the Mayor's office.

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MAYOR KICKS OFF $36 MILLION OAK HILL DEVELOPMENT

Date:  April 24, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 24 - Mayor Ravenstahl and Councilwoman Tonya Payne today presided over the signing of the Master Development Agreement between the City's Housing (HACP) and Beacon/Corcoran Jennison (BCJ), bringing to fruition the City's longstanding plans to complete the redevelopment of Oak Hill.

"Today is a day of celebration for our City, for the Hill District neighborhoods, and for the residents of Oak Hill," Ravenstahl said. "Through hard work and leadership, we are bringing quality development to Oak Hill. This final phase will create more than 200 jobs and provide a quality of life community environment for residents and neighbors."

The MDA calls for the design, construction and delivery of 450 units of mixed-income housing, 20,000 square feet of commercial space to include a convenience store and a sandwich shop, and, the renovation of the defunct Wadsworth Hall Recreational and Community Services Building.

Eloise McDonald, President of the Oak Hill Resident's Council noted, "There were so many times that I thought this would never happen. The residents of Oak Hill are very thankful for the support and leadership of Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Councilwoman Tonya Payne. They answered all our calls, attended all our important meetings, and stood with the Oak Hill residents when others stood on the sidelines. Their words were backed up by actions. They really care about the future of our community."

"The Oak Hill Residents have worked so hard for so long to make this day happen," Councilwoman Tonya Payne said. "I am very proud of what they have been able to accomplish against such long odds. I am honored to be here today to celebrate this accomplishment."

Oak Hill Phase II completes the redevelopment of the former Allequippa Terrace housing project. It features a mix of apartment buildings, townhouses and single-family homes and is market oriented to help balance the overall income mix of the neighborhood. Phase II provides 450 new houses (225 for sale and 225 for rent), a community park, recreational amenities, office space, and community retail, which will be completed in about seven sub-phases.

Major Features of Phase II:

• 292 apartments in six new buildings
• 118 townhouses (58 low-income rental, 9 market rental and 51 are for sale)
• 40 detached single family houses all for sale
• Overall totals are 225 new for sale and 225 new rental housing units
• 9 units of UFAS housing for persons with disabilities
• 20,000 square feet of commercial space
• 3,000 square feet of neighborhood retail to provide a convenience store and sandwich shop
• Renovation of Wadsworth Hall into a community building, which has 8,400 square feet of space a new pool, tennis and basketball court
• Phase II has a total of seven sub-phases

The first sub-phase is called "Wadsworth." The Oak Hill II Wadsworth Phase, an 86-unit affordable housing development, will be part of a multi-phased HOPE VI development collectively known as Oak Hill I & II and formerly known as the Allequippa Terrace housing project, and will be developed, constructed, owned and operated by Oak Hill I.L.P., a Pennsylvania limited.

Major Features of Wadsworth Phase (Phase II-A)

• 86 total units all rentals
• 45 low income units
• 41 market rate units
• One apartment building with 60 units
• 26 townhouses
• Creation of town center park
• Rehabilitation of Wadsworth Hall and all recreational amenities

Residential Design and Amenities:
The residential portion of the Wadsworth Phase will consist of one 60-unit apartment building and 26 townhouses. This will include 27 one-bedroom units, 35 two-bedroom units and 24 three-bedroom units. The apartment building will be a four-story elevator building of frame construction. The townhouses will be two-story and also be frame construction.

Wadsworth Hall- Community Building:
The Wadsworth Phase includes the renovation of Wadsworth Hall; an 8,455 square foot community building that is currently vacant. Once completed, Wadsworth Hall will include a community room with kitchen, classrooms for after school and summer school instruction, supportive services space, and a computer lab. In addition to the interior amenities, the renovation will include exterior site improvements such as a new pool, tennis court, basketball court and landscaping.

Supportive Services:
Housing Opportunities Unlimited (HOU) will be a service provider to the residents. HOU is also the service provider for Oak Hill I, thereby creating a continuity of service provision for all residents of Oak Hill. The service program will include: service coordination, employment and educational services, mediation/conflict resolution and life skills training. The YMCA is also being considered as a partner to augment the social services provided by HOU and to provide recreational opportunities for the residents.

Funding Sources:

SOURCES	TOTAL
Low Income Housing Tax Credit Equity (.68)	10,853,403.53
HACP Program Income	9,077,000.00
Robinson Court Land Proceeds	4,000,000.00
Supportive Services Funds (UPitt)	200,000.00
Other Funds	3,935,521.82
City/URA Infrastructure Funds	8,365,400.00
TOTAL SOURCES	36,431,325.35

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF RFP FOR HILL DISTRICT MASTER PLAN

City to hire consultant to begin community-based planning process

Date:  April 23, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 23 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today the release of a request for proposals for a consultant to work with community members to create a strategic comprehensive master plan for the City's Hill District neighborhood.

"The history and culture of this neighborhood, together with its excellent location, presents a tremendous opportunity to connect our City's two largest business centers - Downtown and Oakland - with the development happening right now in the Hill," Ravenstahl said.

The endeavor is a cooperative effort between the City's department of planning, the Urban Redevelopment Authority, Allegheny County, and the Hill District Planning Forum. A steering committee comprised of Hill District residents and public officials will oversee the proposal and planning processes. The anticipated cost of the planning effort is $350,000.

"The intent of this planning effort is to ensure that neighborhood development reflects the vision that Hill District residents and other neighborhood stakeholders have for the revitalization of this important neighborhood," City Councilwoman Tonya Payne said.

The planning process is one component of the Community Benefits Agreement that was created as a part of construction of the new Penguins' $320 million Arena complex.

Based on extensive community feedback, three objectives for the master plan include: the integration of the Hill District's historical and cultural legacy; the re-integration of the Hill District with the Central Business District; and new investment and balanced development without displacing existing residents and businesses.

The selected consultant will be expected to work in close cooperation with the Hill District Planning Forum and Master Plan Steering Committee. Components of the plan will include a visioning process, market study and analysis, and take into consideration sustainable elements such as storm water management, green energy, solid waste management, and opportunities for green energy via mine water.

"The master planning process is a community organizing process that will guarantee that the people who live and work in the Hill District will benefit from new development," Carl Redwood, Chairman, Hill District Planning Forum, said.

Proposals are due May 29, 2009, and final selection will be made by July 6, 2009. Proposals are available for download at www.planpgh.com and www.ura.org.

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MAYOR ISSUES EMERGENCY DECLARATION TO CLOSE DAVIS AVENUE BRIDGE

Date:  April 22, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

  :: Davis Bridge Closings 

  :: Mayor Declaration 

(PITTSBURGH) April 22, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that a Declaration of Emergency was issued yesterday for the immediate demolition of the Davis Avenue Bridge and the coordination of necessary emergency response activities. The 110-year-old bridge, located in the City's North Side, connects the Brighton Heights neighborhood to Riverview Park and has been closed to vehicular traffic since 2001.

The City's engineering consultant, Michael Baker, Jr., Inc. is currently conducting a structural engineering inspection of the bridge and provided a preliminary report which indicates that the structure is in danger of collapse. The consultant recommends that the bridge be immediately closed to pedestrian traffic, and that the area beneath it on Woods Run Road be immediately closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The report also recommends that the bridge be demolished as soon as possible.

"I've issued a Declaration of Emergency in order to ensure that emergency management measures are taken immediately to protect the health, safety and welfare of affected residents," Ravenstahl said. " "We must follow all of the recommendations from this report in order to keep our residents safe."

Emergency management officials yesterday surveyed the area surrounding the Davis Avenue bridge and identified four homes that could potentially be in harms way. Those residents, located at 771, 806, 804, and 808 Woods Run Avenue, were also visited yesterday by Director of Public Safety Michael Huss and delivered a letter which strongly recommends that they vacate immediately.

"We strongly urge that the endangered residents vacate now and we have provided them with temporary shelter until it is safe to return to their homes," Ravenstahl said.

The City in conjunction with the American Red Cross and other public agencies are assisting the residents with temporary housing.

"Any situation where we have to temporary displace residents is unfortunate," City Councilwoman Darlene Harris said. "The good news is that this bridge is getting the attention it needs now and that residents have been alerted of this potentially dangerous situation before a calamity occurs."

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MAYOR, GREEN GROUPS HOST EARTH DAY RALLY IN MARKET SQUARE

Date:  April 21, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 21, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he and local sustainability coordinators representing the areas corporate, business, and non-profit communities will host an Earth Day celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., this Wednesday, April 22nd in Downtown's Market Square.

The Mayor will speak at noon about the City's green initiatives and layout his vision for a sustainable future.

"My vision for a truly sustainable City involves collaboration from government, businesses, community members, and institutions of higher education," Ravenstahl said.

The Mayor will also challenge citizens to do their part by signing up to volunteer with one of several local environmental organizations participating in the festivities.

The public is invited to check out music deejayed by Solar Power Industries, where the setup is powered completely by solar panels, and sample free refreshments with a sustainable theme, courtesy of the The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Franktuary, and other local food vendors.

Participating organizations include:

• Astorino
• BNY Mellon
• Bayer Corporation
• Chatham University
• City of Pittsburgh
• Eat'n Park Hospitality Group
• FedEx Ground
• Giant Eagle
• HDR Inc.
• Highmark
• Sustainable Pittsburgh
• UPMC
• URA Energy

Market Square will be closed to traffic during this time. For accessibility information for this event and more details, please contact Lindsay Baxter at 412-255-2152.

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MAYOR ADOPTS 'TOMORROW IS TODAY' PLAN TO PREPARE YOUTHS FOR FUTURE CAREERS

Date:  April 20, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 20, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today kicked-off Imagine! Career Week by adopting a four-point action plan that focuses on preparing kids now for tomorrow's careers through workforce readiness programs. As part of the plan, called 'Tomorrow is Today,' the Mayor challenged area employers to get into the schools and expose students to career opportunities by signing onto the Pittsburgh Regional Compact.

"Preparing our youths for 21st-Century jobs to grow our economy is the most important investment we can make to ensure that Pittsburgh's Renaissance continues," Ravenstahl said. "Even in this economic downturn, there are jobs waiting to be filled right here, and we must do a better job of connecting people to jobs and jobs to people."

Last fall, the Mayor asked the City's department of personnel to work with the areas top 25 employers in order to better understand their workforce demands. All employers delivered the same message: youths need more workforce preparation.

"The message we heard loud and clear was that our young people have a lack of understanding when it comes to what is expected of them in the work world - fitting into their employers' culture, understanding the kinds of conduct, dress, and work ethic needed to succeed in a career," Ravenstahl said.

The Mayor continued, "On top of that, nearly all employers said that they can't find qualified workers, yet many young people say they can't find jobs. This paradox can only be addressed by getting the message to our youths that 'Tomorrow is Today.' We need to help our youths understand that the actions they take today will define their successes down the road."

The Mayor's action plan includes a historic collaboration with regional workforce development consortiums that will open the City's doors to extensive job-shadowing and internship opportunities; get City employees into the schools to expose kids to careers in public service; and weave in workforce readiness curriculum into the City's existing youth programs.

As first point of his plan, the Mayor signed onto the Pittsburgh Regional Compact, and called on regional employers to do the same. By signing the Compact, employers pledge to work with educators to prepare middle and high schoolers for the careers of tomorrow. It is free and the Compact's staff members help to develop the employer-educator partnership once the pledge is made.

"The City is an employer with unique and courageous careers including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, civil engineers and information technology experts," Ravenstahl said. "Today, I commit the City to help students more fully understand these careers so that they know how to prepare themselves for work in public service. I encourage all employers in the City to participate in the Pittsburgh Regional Compact now as a way to help build their own workforces of the future."

Secondly, the City will become an active member of the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board's "E4," Educators and Employers Engaged for Excellence program, which encourages employers to work with educators to provide 'real-world' learning to youths through job shadowing.

Next, the Mayor pledged to incorporate YouthWorks', Inc. JumpStart Success program into his Pittsburgh Summer Youth Employment Program (PSYEP). Success staff will help students define their career goals and teach them the interview skills and conduct necessary to succeed in the working world. Now, students will leave the six-week PSYEP with money in their pockets and a certificate that ensures they know how to conduct themselves in a professional work environment.

Lastly, the Mayor announced that the City will nearly double the amount of youths hired in the youth employment program, and fulfill his aforementioned pledges to better prepare youths for tomorrow's jobs.

"Thanks to President Obama's commitment to our youths, I am thrilled to announce that we will put more than 500 young people to work this summer," Ravenstahl said. "On top of that our youths will be more exposed to the 'real-world' work environment by splitting their time between conservation work in parks and Green Up sites, and in public and private office internships."

Applications for PSYEP will be available on the City's website the first week of June.

April 20 - 24, 2009 is the third annual Imagine! Career Week, a coordinated series of events that focuses on preparing our region's youth for 21st-Century careers. The week brings together young people, parents, educators, employers and youth-serving agencies that are focused on career education. To learn more about Imagine! Career Week and the Pittsburgh Regional Compact, log onto www.pittsburghregionalcompact.org.

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CITY HIRES CONSULTANT TO STUDY MONETIZING PARKING AUTHORITY ASSETS

Date:  April 17, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 17, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that the Pittsburgh Parking Authority (PPA) board voted unanimously at their monthly meeting yesterday to choose Scott Balice Strategies (SBC), of Chicago, IL, to conduct a feasibility study on the monetization of its parking assets. The Mayor called on the authority last fall to determine if leasing such assets could provide the necessary cash infusion to heal the City's under-funded pension fund.

"We've done everything we can to right the pension ship, but right now bold ideas are needed to ensure that future liabilities don't take away from critical public safety and core services down the road," Ravenstahl said. "This process is now underway and it will ultimately tell us if monetization makes the best sense for the residents of our City."

The PPA received nine proposals and conducted four interviews before choosing SBC. SBC is one of the top public/private partnership advisory firms in the U.S, and have successfully completed monetization studies for Chicago and Los Angeles, among others.

The consultant will complete the feasibility by August.

The Mayor last December increased the City's minimum municipal obligation to the pension fund and adopted a defined-contribution plan for non-union employees - both first time actions. In addition, last November, the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities approved the Mayor's Four Point Plan for Pension Reform, which calls for statewide changes to the pension funding system.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES ZONE 3 POLICE STATION OPENING

Date:  April 17, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 17, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that the new Zone 3 police station, located at the crossroad of the City's Hilltop neighborhoods, is now fully operational.

"I want to thank all City employees - from staff at police headquarters to our engineers on Ross Street - for their efforts in turning a vacant structure in the heart of a business district into a state-of-the-art police station," Ravenstahl said. "This is a facility our officers and community deserve, and I look forward to celebrating its opening with residents soon."

Police officers took part in their first roll call at 3 p.m. yesterday. The Mayor will host an official ribbon-cutting and community celebration on May 1, at 11 a.m. At that time, community members and the media will be given tours of the new station. The community's public art project will also be unveiled.

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MAYOR ENCOURAGES FAMILIES TO ATTEND CITIPARKS' 4TH ANNUAL EARTH DAY CELEBRATION

Date:  April 16, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

What: Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today called on families to attend Citiparks' 4th annual Earth Day Celebration from 11:30 to 4:00 p.m., this Saturday, April 18th, at Frick Environmental Center located at 2005 Beechwood Boulevard.

The FREE event includes Earth Day activities for the entire family and live musical entertainment. The Mayor will kick off Earth Week events with a ceremonial tree planting at 1 p.m.

For Adults:

12, 1, & 2 p.m.- Yoga Classes
All day - Sustainable Living Lessons: learn how to clean green, conduct your own energy audit, grow native plants, create a rain barrel and more...

For Children:

3 p.m. - Zany Umbrella Circus Workshop
All day - Tree climbing contests, nature exploration, green crafting projects, building fairy homes

For the Family:

Nature Walks

11:30 a.m. - Botany hike and geocaching (treasure hunt using GPS)
12:30 p.m. - Bird hike (bring binoculars and a field guide) and geocaching
1:30 p.m. - Botany hike, bug hike and geocaching
2:30 p.m. - Wild edibles and geocaching

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MAYOR LAUNCHES LOAN FUND TO CREATE JOBS AND ENCOURAGE ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Date:  April 16, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 16, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced the creation of a new low-interest loan program geared toward small business expansion and creation. Focusing on high-tech companies, The Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Fund will provide up to $200,000 for growing businesses and young entrepreneurs who are eager to turn an idea into profitability.

"This fund will help to create at least 100 new jobs and leverage more than $3 million in private investment," Ravenstahl said. "By nurturing our young talent and promoting entrepreneurship, we are poised to experience our next Renaissance."

The fund, administered by the City's Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), will be a revolving loan fund for start-up and growing businesses including emerging technology based firms, such as Information Technology, Life Sciences and Green / Energy and other start up enterprises. It will provide low interest loans for working capital and related start-up costs, as well as couple clients with a technical assistance consultant to provide guidance and expertise during the initial loan term.

A key difference with this loan versus most business loans is that intellectual capital - the idea of a product - may result in funding.

"This fund isn't just for existing small businesses. We want to encourage the young talent emerging from our universities who may not have the capital to grow their ideas here," Ravenstahl said. "If you have a creative idea, a strong business plan, and are willing to work hard, we want you to build your business in Pittsburgh."

This fund will also build upon the work of the technology incubators that encourage the expansion of innovative, high growth potential companies by helping to finance a portion of their capital needs.

"An often critical financing need for emerging technology companies is at the nexus between commercialization and fast growth where the company needs to finance things like a new sales force, and new contract fulfillment," URA executive director Rob Stephany said. "Many companies spinning from our universities and high-tech centers are often at this crossroad, and seeking financing to move from formation and commercialization to growth and profitability."

The fund is being seeded by a $1 million commitment from the City of Pittsburgh. Half will be reauthorized from existing Community Development Block Grant funds and half is anticipated from the City's allotment of Economic Stimulus funding.

"This new fund will be an important tool in the City's efforts to support a vibrant entrepreneurial community in the region." Audrey Russo, President, Pittsburgh Technology Council, said. "The initiative and nature of the funds could not have been better timed, considering the changes occurring in today's financial markets. We applaud the City's progress toward supporting the success of home-grown technology firms".

The new loan fund joins the Metropolitan Loan Fund of Pittsburgh (MLFP), which is administered by Landmarks Community Capital Corporation, and is designed to help increase the number of minority firms in the region. The MLFP places a significant amount of emphasis on women-owned businesses, which are growing faster by nearly 57% than those businesses owned by men or non-minority women. The City and URA have capitalized the program with a commitment of $250,000. At present, the fund has $1.75 million in committed capital.

"It is important to provide financial resources to entrepreneurs who help revitalize communities," Dr. Howard B. Slaughter, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of Landmarks Community Capital Corporation said. "Today, entrepreneurs are the economic engines of our society and the majority of workers in America are employed by small businesses. I am pleased that the Pittsburgh Entrepreneurship Growth Fund will join the Metropolitan Loan Fund as yet another resource in providing entrepreneurs opportunity for growth and stability for urban metropolitan markets."

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MAYOR URGES CITY RESIDENTS TO PARTICPATE IN THE UPCOMING CENSUS

City implementing Complete Count Committee to ensure accuracy in 2010 Census

Date:  April 15, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 15, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today called on City of Pittsburgh residents to answer Census workers who will be going door-to-door verifying addresses in City neighborhoods.

"Providing accurate information in the upcoming Census is of vital importance to the City in continued planning and development as well as federal funding allocations," Ravenstahl said. "I encourage all residents to cooperate fully when approached by Census workers and to provide the most accurate information possible."

Although the actual Census Day does not occur until April 1, 2010, the Census Bureau has already begun the legwork necessary to make the day a success. Beginning April 18, 2009, Census workers will be going door-to-door with handheld devices to verify every address in the nation. Residents should not be alarmed to see such individuals when they appear in their neighborhoods. All Census workers will have federal identification which they will provide to residents immediately upon request.

To ensure a successful and accurate Census, the Mayor is forming a Complete Count Committee, consisting of representatives from local government, faith based groups, local business, educators, and community based organizations. The Committee is dependent on local stakeholder involvement in order to ensure that communities are accurately counted.

"The formation of this committee is the most efficient manner for the City to ensure that we have the most accurate data possible," Ravenstahl said. "A successful Census will provide the City with the foundation to plan public services and investments for the next decade."

In addition to the Complete Count Committee, the Mayor has charged the Department of City Planning with a year-long community outreach program to increase the public awareness of the Census' importance.

The Census is an effort undertaken every 10 years by the U.S. government to count every person living in the United States and its territories. The program requires years of planning and billions of dollars for success, but more than that, it requires the active participation of each and every person residing in the U.S. and its territories. The information gleaned from the Census is critical in determining how Congress is apportioned, as well as how federal funding is distributed to states, counties, and municipalities. This funding helps the City with everything from education funding to road repairs to services for the elderly.

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CITY ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR MAYOR'S SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Date:  April 3, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) April 3, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Pittsburgh Partnership, a division of the City's Department of Personnel, has issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) for the Mayor's Pittsburgh Summer Youth Employment Program (PSYEP). The program will be split 50/50 between two employment tracts - conservation/field work as in the past, and internships, which are new.

"I wanted to include internships so that our youths have the opportunity to experience on-the-job-training firsthand," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "I encourage all employers to open their doors as sites for the internships when approached and help make a difference in the lives of our youths."

Instructions, guidelines and questions related to the RFP, including program requirements, allowable activity and youth eligibility, are detailed in the document.

The RFP will be posted on the following websites:
www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us
www.pittsburghpartnership.org
www.trwib.org

Responses will be due back to the Pittsburgh Partnership, via the website, no later than 4:00 p.m. on May 1, 2009.

This is the first time the City has issued an RFP for the program, due to the Mayor's decision to include internships and the increased amount of funding available.

Under Mayor Ravenstahl, the Summer Youth Employment Program has seen tremendous growth. In 2007, PSYEP operated under a budget of $550,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds allocated by the Mayor, and employed 197 youth. In 2008, the program's budget increased to $837,000 thanks to $500,000 in CDBG money from the Mayor and additional funds provided by The Pittsburgh Foundation, ICA and the City's Housing Authority, and employed 272 youth. This year the program will be funded with $1 million in stimulus (ARRA) dollars and $500,000 in CDBG funds allocated by the Mayor, with possible additional funding coming from foundations.

Said the Mayor, "By leveraging stimulus dollars, it is my goal to hire at least 500 youths this year."

PSYEP applications for youths will be available the first week of June.

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MAYOR INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO MOVE CITY'S RIVERFRONT TOW POUND

Date:  March 31, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 31, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that, pending City Council approval, the City's Strip District Tow Pound operations will be turned over to McGann and Chester, LLC. The move is part of the Mayor's plan to promote development along riverfronts, and will put two more police officers on neighborhood patrol.

"For years, we've talked about moving this facility away from the riverfront," Ravenstahl said. "Now, we're setting the stage for vibrant development that builds upon our natural assets and reconnects our neighborhoods to our riverfronts."

The Mayor introduced legislation to Council authorizing the City to enter into a professional services agreement to permit McGann and Chester, LLC to take over the City's towing and storage services at zero cost to taxpayers. Moving the pound would make available approximately 1 ½ acre of prime riverfront land, or a little more than the size of a football field, and be a key part of the City's Allegheny Riverfront Masterplan. Service would be expanded to include 24-hour-a-day access, with a location outside the southern end of the Liberty Tunnels and within walking distance to transit links.

Historically, the City's tow pound has operated as a "breakeven center." In 2008, the pound generated approximately $1.2 million. This revenue was offset by approximately $1.1 million in contractual and fuel surcharges fees, as well as $433,000 in personnel costs. In addition, the City would have had to put more than $200,000 in required infrastructure repairs.

In April 2008, the Mayor announced that the City would be bidding out the facility. McGann and Chester, LLC submitted the only bid, but the City was unable to make an award due to the complexity of the services required. Last October, the City issued a second RFP and received proposals from two vendors, McGann and Chester, LLC, and Ferra Automotive Services. After evaluation, the committee unanimously recommended the award be made to McGann and Chester, but the award was put on hold following a thorough Police Bureau investigation regarding the tow pound's auction processes.

The Mayor believes that the significant investments in riverfront parks and amenities, as well as the breadth of private investment happening in the Strip District and Downtown, presents an opportunity for more development along the Allegheny Riverfront. A Riverfront Masterplan will better guide strategic investment and reconnect riverfronts to neighborhoods. The City's URA last month entered into a contract with Perkins Eastman to conduct a strategic Riverfront Masterplan for the 6.45 mile segment, stretching from the Strip District to Highland Park. The blueprint, will be incorporated into, and serve as a model for, the City's comprehensive riverfront master plan, scheduled for completion in 2010.

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MAYOR SUBMITS LEGISLATION FOR $300,000 IN ICA FUNDING TO REBUILD BBI

Money, matched by City, will better equip inspectors with training and move them to neighborhood zones

Date:  March 24, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 24, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today sent legislation to City Council to authorize $300,000 in ICA funding that will provide building inspectors with training in asbestos surveying and complete their deployment into neighborhood police zones. Pending Council approval, the commitment represents a partnership with the City and ICA that focuses on rebuilding the Bureau of Building Inspection (BBI) to more effectively fight blight in City neighborhoods.

"Training our inspectors in asbestos surveying will lower the cost of demolition so that we can more aggressively tackle vacant structures," Ravenstahl said. "Our inspectors are on the front-lines fighting blight in our neighborhoods and they deserve the best tools to keep our neighborhoods safe and clean."

The Mayor is committed to getting a handle on neighborhood blight and has challenged BBI to aggressively address the demolition back-log. He doubled the demolition budget from $2 to $4 million in 2008 and increased it by another 25 percent in 2009. In response to that challenge, BBI overhauled the bidding process for demolitions, allowing for multiple homes in close proximity to be bid as one package. The 59-home contract in Hazelwood was the first demo project awarded under the new standards, followed by the 53-home contract in the Hilltop neighborhoods of Beltzhoover and Allentown. In total, 502 structures were razed in 2008. BBI is currently doing scattered site demolition, and is getting pre-demolition surveys in the North Side, Hazelwood, East Liberty, Garfield and the Hill District.

Code enforcement inspectors in the field are using mobile data terminals, which is drastically improving the amount of time in which violations are mailed to property owners. Two inspectors are now reporting to a neighborhood police zone, and the bureau will aggressively role out the decentralization in the coming months.

Soon to come will be the implementation of the following: an inspector recruit class, scheduled for April 13, to focus on improving the Bureau's culture by equipping inspectors with technical skills; integrating code enforcement functions by decentralizing all code enforcement inspectors into the police zones and training fire personnel in code enforcement; and providing inspectors with vehicles to make them more visible and effective.

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MAYOR RAVENSTAHL ISSUES CALL TO ACTION TO JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS

Date:  March 19, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 19, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl issued a call to action today calling on job seekers and employers to utilize CareerLink of Pittsburgh/Allegheny County to find and post jobs. The Mayor encouraged those needing jobs to reach out and take advantage of all the services that CareerLink has to offer and challenged employers to list their job openings with CareerLink.

"Pittsburgh has been luckier than most cities during these difficult economic times with an unemployment rate below the national average," said Mayor Ravenstahl, "but to the unemployed worker, that's no consolation. We're here today to talk about how, through CareerLink, the City is connecting people to jobs and jobs to people. But we need the job seekers and employers to call, stop by or email now."

"And there's more good news; almost $3 million in stimulus money will help us serve and train even more residents in need of jobs and job training," added Ravenstahl. Although the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has not yet determined the exact rules for allocating the stimulus money, the Pittsburgh region will see approximately $3 million in stimulus funding for workforce investment. It appears right now that most of the money will be used for additional training programs and for an expanded summer youth program. The stimulus dollars will allow CareerLink to expand the capacity of individuals served.

CareerLink has been helping residents find employment for many years. The mission of PA CareerLink, as the foundation for the workforce development system, is to support local and regional economic development activities. The performance based system provides both employers and job seekers with market driven services, workshops, and information in an integrated seamless, universally accessible setting that supports all customers in making informed hiring decisions and career choices. CareerLink offers three categories of job seeker services - core services, intensive services and individual training accounts - and an employer resource center to help meet the needs of employers. All services for job seekers and employers are free.

"CareerLink is a fantastic workforce development program that allows job seekers of every age, educational background and income level to connect them to jobs in the area," said Judy Hill Finegan, assistant director/manager personnel/Pittsburgh Partnership. "We have jobs that range from psychologist to cashier and everything in between available - we just need motivated job seekers to get in touch with us so we can help them."

One of the many great success stories of CareerLink is Judith Meyers, who had been laid off from her previous job. Through CareerLink, Ms. Meyers attended numerous workshops, regularly met with her career counselor, and was enrolled in a job search/placement contract with the Jewish Family Career Development center. In January of 2009 she was offered a position with the Commonwealth as an Unemployment Compensation Intermittent Interviewer at a higher wage than she was previously making. "CareerLink helped with everything from resume writing and job search strategies to encouragement and support," said Meyers, who additionally is something of a trailblazer as she is one of the few sight-impaired persons to obtain this position.

CareerLink is a great tool for employers as well. Employers of all sizes can post jobs with CareerLink and it is a free service. Kevin Whalen, general manager of Q-DOT Inc., a small business, said "CareerLink made it very simple to hire. They were great to work with, the service was easy to use, and the quality of candidates I interviewed was exceptional. The person I hired has been with me 15 months now and doing a great job." Mary Curet, program director, Community Partnerships, Center for Inclusion in Health Care of UPMC said, "One of our strongest community partners is the PACareerLink system. We have many UPMC employees who have come to us through the PA CareerLink system including respiratory therapists, administrative specialist, C.N.A.s and others."

"Now more than ever it's crucial that job seekers realize how valuable CareerLink can be in finding employment, and that employers take advantage of what CareerLink can do for them," said the Mayor. "With the variety of ways for employers and job seekers to access the CareerLink services, don't wait — get in touch with CareerLink today."

Job Seekers can access CareerLink in a variety of ways: they can visit the full service center located in the Regional Enterprise Tower at 425 Sixth Avenue, downtown, or at one of the six neighborhood locations; call them at 866-317-JOBS, or just log onto the CareerLink website at www.CareerLinkpittsburgh.com. All CareerLink services can be accessed online for free right from the comfort of your own home.

Employers are urged to contact CareerLink online at www.pacareerlink.state.pa.us or by phone at 866-317-JOBS. It's easy and it's free — there is no fee for posting, unlike other services. And CareerLink can help you with the hiring process as well.

The following are the six neighborhood locations of CareerLink:

Career Workforce Development Center East (CWDCE)
7140 Bennett Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Mon.-Fri., 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(412) 241-2811

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh 4400 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Mon.-Thurs., 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
(412) 622-3133
Fri.-Sat., 10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sun., 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Eastside Neighborhood Employment Ctr. 5100 Penn Ave.., 2nd Fl.
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Mon.-Fri., 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(412) 362-8580

West Pittsburgh Partnership (WESTNET) 37 Wabash Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(412) 922-2740

Brashear Association, Inc. 730 Warrington Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15210
Mon.-Fri., 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(412) 390-3589

Northside Leadership Conference 4 Allegheny Center
Suite 601
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Mon.-Fri., 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
(412) 330-2551

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CITY'S SHARED SERVICES ENERGY PURCHASING PROGRAM AWARDED $127,000 GRANT

Date:  March 18, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 18, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City was awarded a $127,500 grant for Phase II of its Shared Services Energy Purchasing Program by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). Council voted this afternoon and accepted the terms of the contract and the grant monies.

In Phase II, the City will be conducting outreach to all municipalities in Allegheny County through each of the eight Councils of Government (COG), providing each municipality the opportunity to join the next round of electricity purchasing for 2009.

In 2007 the City of Pittsburgh, in cooperation with Allegheny County, established the Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium - a city-wide energy cost and consumption reduction program. The Western Pennsylvania Energy Consortium saw great successes in 2008 (with a combined savings of nearly $1.4 million) that led to the funding of the Sustainability Coordinator and the Office of Sustainability & Energy Efficiency for the City of Pittsburgh. In late 2008, the consortium conducted an auction associated with natural gas and has since seen a substantial reduction in the cost of transportation and commodity with each of the three local providers.

"Now in 2009, we are able to bring our successes to municipalities throughout Allegheny County by providing them with cost saving initiatives that are only achievable through such a large purchase," said Mayor Ravenstahl.

This is the second grant the City has received for the Shared Services Program through the DCED. The first grant, for $70,000, was awarded in 2008 for Phase I to partially fund the Energy & Utilities Manager position and to help facilitate the original energy purchase with the County, PWSA, Zoo and SEA. The 2009 grant pays for the salary of the Energy & Utilities Manager and some of the costs associated with Co-Exprise. Co-Exprise is the energy firm the consortium hired to help facilitate the purchase of electricity and natural gas through a reverse auction platform.

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MAYOR'S PLAN TO REBUILD BBI TAKES SHAPE

Neighborhood inspectors begin working with police to clean up neighborhoods

Date:  March 17, 2009
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 17, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that his plan to rebuild the Bureau of Building Inspection (BBI) is taking shape. Beginning today, two BBI code enforcement inspectors will report to a neighborhood office in the Zone 5 Police station on Washington Boulevard. The inspectors will report to the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays of each week, from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

The Mayor announced last October that his fight on blight called for an overhaul of BBI. His plan included improving visibility and accessibility of BBI inspectors in their neighborhoods; improving communication and accountability between inspectors and Police to prevent crime; updating technology to improve efficiency; and providing training for new recruits and existing employees.

Said Mayor Ravenstahl, "The purpose of this initiative is two-fold: to increase public safety by creating a direct line of communication between the Police Bureau and BBI, and to provide the community with better access to BBI personnel. The Zone 5 neighborhood BBI office will make this neighborhood cleaner and safer and help our police prevent crime."

Having BBI inspectors assigned to the police stations is designed to improve efficiency and accountability. While out on patrol, Police officers will be equipped with forms to report dangerous sidewalks, trash and any other code violations they observe. Their reports will then be submitted directly to the Zone 5 office inspectors, where they will log in the complaints to their BBI supervisor and 311.

"This is a change from the typical chain of reporting, but by informing 311, we will continue to have the ability to track complaints," said Sergei Matveiev, BBI chief. "And, by streamlining the process, the police reports go right to the zone's inspectors, eliminating a lot of unnecessary red tape."

Once BBI investigates the Police Bureau's complaint, it will generate a status report which will be transmitted to the station commander every 10 working days, and will tabulate complaints that have been resolved versus those pending further action.

Another advantage of having code enforcement inspectors at the Zone 5 station is that citizens and community groups will now be able to meet with the inspectors by visiting the station, or reach them by direct phone line, email or fax. Inspectors Joseph Andrisevic and Laverne Stuckey will be in the office from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Residents may call Inspector Andrisevic at 412-665-3624 or joseph.andrisevic@city.pittsburgh.pa.us, Inspector Stuckey at 412-665-2119 or Laverne.stuckey@city.pittsburgh.pa.us, or fax them at 412-665-4063.

"By setting up a decentralized office, we are forging into uncharted territory," said Matveiev. "There is no model for this in the country - we are the model. We want to see how it goes for a few months, debug the program and establish how we want things to work. Once we do that, we are looking to set up a few more offices, probably this summer."

When Matveiev was appointed the new Bureau of Building Inspection chief, the Mayor directed him to implement several changes including creating a new training program for inspector recruits and existing employees. At the time, the Bureau was down several employees.

Since then, the Bureau has been "interviewing like crazy" according to Matveiev, to fill vacancies for various positions, including five inspectors, three project chiefs, and one building plan examiner. "Our plan is to bring them all on board by April 13," said Matveiev. In the meantime, BBI has been in discussions with the state about providing training. The state will pay for professionals from Pennsylvania Construction Codes Academy to train new recruits, and BBI is looking to begin classes toward the end of April.

BBI inspectors are now equipped with Mobile Data Terminals and the Bureau is working to customize the software to perform all the necessary functions pertinent to the inspectors' needs. The Bureau will also be receiving new vehicles within the next few months.

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MAYOR TO SPEAK AT DUKE UNIVERSITY MONDAY

Date:  March 13, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 13, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl will speak at Duke University in Durham, NC on Monday, March 16 as part of Connect2Politics (C2P) - an educational initiative sponsored by Duke's Hart Leadership Program. The Mayor will speak at a noon seminar titled, "The Life and Times of America's Youngest Mayor," in Sanford Institute Lecture Hall 03. The Mayor will also participate in an informal Connect2Politics Learning Community Dinner at 5:00 p.m. in Rubenstein Hall, Room 200.

"I'm honored to have been asked to participate in the Connect2Politics initiative," said Ravenstahl. "I think it's important that students see political engagement as more than a one day or one time happening, such as the election, and that's what C2P strives to do."

"We chose Mayor Ravenstahl because he represents one of the most prominent and accomplished members of a group of young leaders who are working through political channels to serve the public good," said David Gastwirth, assistant director, Hart Leadership Program. "The Mayor's relative youth puts him in a unique position to connect with undergraduate students who share a deep concern for social issues and a passion for leading change in local, national, and global communities."

During his visit, the Mayor is scheduled to meet with: Anna Blount, director, Hart Leadership Program; Fritz Mayer, associate professor of public policy studies and political science; Bruce Kuniholm, director, Terry Sanford Institute of Public Policy; Della McKinnon, social enterprise coordinator; and Mike Schoenfeld, vice president of public affairs. Mayor Ravenstahl will also have the option to tour the University campus.

The Connect2Politics program was launched to boost interest in politics and sustain political debate after the November 4, 2008 election. It is designed to expose Duke undergraduate students to the next generation of American leaders who are committed to forging social change through political channels.

Other speakers in the 2008-2009 program include: Harold Ford, Jr., chair, Democratic Leadership Council; Michael Steele, chair, Republican National Committee; Mayor Cory Booker, Newark, NJ; Andrew Gillum, city commissioner and founder, Young Elected Officials Network, Tallahassee, FL ; and New Jersey State Senators Jennifer Beck and Tom Kean, Jr.

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MAYOR'S VISION FOR ALLEGHENY RIVERFRONT MOVES FORWARD

Date:  March 12, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 12 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that his vision to reconnect riverfronts to neighborhoods is one step further. At their monthly meeting, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) board chose the consultant team who will work with the Mayor and riverfront development leaders in crafting a master plan for a key segment of the Allegheny Riverfront.

"It's about reconnecting our riverfronts back to our neighborhoods and giving our residents the opportunity to benefit from the investment," Ravenstahl said.

The URA sought proposals last October from teams with expertise in urban design, market research, and traffic and transit analysis.

"We received 24 quality proposals from world-class companies which speaks volumes to the opportunities that exist along our rivers," Ravenstahl said.

A steering committee comprised of staff from the URA, Department of City Planning, and Riverlife, along with property owners, developers, and community representatives unanimously selected the team led by Perkins Eastman to spearhead the visioning process for the 6.45 mile segment stretching from the Strip District to Highland Park. The team will get to work immediately and will take approximately 12 months to complete the plan. The blueprint will be incorporated into, and serve as a model for, the City's comprehensive riverfront master plan, scheduled for completion in 2010.

"The team developed by Perkins Eastman has a breadth of both local and national experience," Rob Stephany, Executive Director, URA said. "The committee undeniably believes that this group has the ability to generate the big picture solutions that this process calls for, and we assert they will make excellent partners."

Significant investments in riverfront parks over the last ten years have created a strong incentive for riverfront economic development.

"When it comes to distinctive urban waterfronts, the Allegheny Riverfront is as exciting an opportunity as any location in the country," said Lisa Schroeder, Riverlife executive director. "We applaud the City for involving the community in a planning process that will better connect the river into the heart of the City. The Allegheny riverfront has the potential to improve the daily quality of life for ten neighborhoods."

The Perkins Eastman team was selected for their dynamic approach to framing the problem, and for not coming to the table with a ready-made solution. They have demonstrated experience with projects of this scale and nature, particularly dealing with challenging conditions, and have proven leadership in engaging the community in the process.

The team is comprised of Perkins Eastman, and Urbanomics for urban design and planning; GSP Consulting for market assessment and development; Cahill Associates, Viridian Landscape Studio, and Continental Conservation on environmental and infrastructure design and planning; and Trans Associates and Clear View Strategies for transportation design and planning. Authorization was granted today for a contract not-to-exceed $350,000. Work is scheduled to begin immediately and will be completed within 12 months time.

"The Allegheny's edge, along with its associated communities, can be a primary thread that connects its distinct neighborhoods and becomes a key amenity in their future development," Stephen Quick, FAIA, Principal, Perkins Eastman said. "We are thrilled to be working on this vision plan that links the Allegheny to its neighborhoods and downtown, and can also become the precedent for other city riverfront neighborhoods."

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MAYOR URGES CITIZENS TO REPORT POTHOLES

Use of technology makes reporting easier now, as crews aggressively respond to pothole requests

Date:  March 11, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 11- Standing on Carnahan Street in Banksville, where crews have answered more than seventy 311 calls, the Mayor urged citizens to report potholes, pledging that crews would get to them within five working days days. To make reporting even easier the Mayor created a new Web site, www.pittsburghpothole.com, and offered an additional phone number that non-City residents may reach, 412-255-CITY. He urged City residents to keep reporting potholes through his 311 Response Line.

"It's been a tough season for drivers and crews who are battling Pittsburgh's potholes," Ravenstahl said. "We're going to do everything we can to combat this now by responding swiftly to every report, while we prepare for one of the largest infrastructure investments of our time. We will be answering President Obama's call to put more people to work by grinding asphalt and paving roads, filling potholes,' and repairing steps and sidewalks."

Currently, pothole calls top the request list to the Mayor's 311 Response Line. The Department of Public Works (DPW) street maintenance divisions have been ordered by the Mayor to focus on pothole patching when not on snow and ice control. Through 311, every request is tracked and efficiently expedited to the street division; 99 percent of pothole calls are responded to within three days. For every pothole call, crews patch six and have used more than 500 pounds of cold-patch material in the month of February.

"Residents need to be aware that crews can only use 'cold-patch' material in this weather which means that potholes will only hold the fill if they are two-inches deep or more," said Rob Kaczorowski, DPW operations director. "As soon as the weather gets warmer and more durable hot-patch' becomes available, we will be able to more aggressively hit the smaller potholes."

The City's Redd Up Crew will cover some of the street maintenance crews' duties, such as trash collection in the business districts, to allow more employees to focus on responding to requests. In a 24-hour period, approximately 50 employees will focus just on patching, responding to the most serious calls first.

"It's important that residents are specific as possible when describing a roadway of concern, so that we can get there fast and prioritize where we need to go first," Kaczorowski said. "Tell us the size and scope of the pothole, point crews to nearby intersections or landmarks, and the direction of traffic if possible."

In 2008, the Mayor announced that the DPW crews would be going on aggressive pothole patrol. During that time, crews patched nearly 44,000 potholes, a 65 percent increase from 2007. So far in 2009, crews have continued the fight, responding to more than 1,000 complaints. New this year is the focus on technology and urging non-City residents to report too.

Through the president's economic stimulus plan, the City will receive $4.5 million in community development block grant funding.

"I am confident that a large portion of this money will be used to improve our infrastructure so that next year, some of our most pothole riddled roads will be paved, and our streets safer for residents," Ravenstahl said. "When specific program guidelines become available, I will be working with members of City Council to help formulate an aggressive paving program."

The City maintains approximately 1200 miles of road and does not maintain state or interstate roads unless there is an emergency situation. 311 will refer those callers to the hotline offered by PennDOT - 1-800-FIX-ROAD.

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MAYOR, POLICE CONTINUE PUBLIC SAFETY MEASURES TO PROMOTE FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARADE

Date:  March 10, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

  :: St. Patrick's Parade Street Closings 

(Pittsburgh) March 10, 2009 - Standing alongside Miss Smiling Irish Eyes, members of the St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee and the City's top public safety officials, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced safety measures to once again make this year's St. Patrick's Day parade a safer, family-friendly affair.

"Pittsburgh's St. Patrick Day Parade is one of our City's best and most anticipated traditions," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "Last year we took steps to improve public safety and return the parade back to the family-oriented celebration it once was. We will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure that the parade is an event everyone can enjoy."

Last year the City implemented an enhanced public safety action plan to make the yearly event more of a family affair. Again this year, there will be an increased police presence along the parade route, in Market Square, and following the event, in the South Side. Market Square will be open to revelers from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. only. Quick Response Teams will be mobile and ready to respond to any problems that require immediate police assistance. Police and undercover Liquor Control Enforcement agents (LCE) will closely monitor underage drinking, drinking and driving, and unruly behavior.

Last year, thanks to the increased Police and LCE presence, officers made more than 100 alcohol-related arrests, compared to 35 in 2007.

"In addition to the measures we put into place last year, this year's parade route will have more fencing to aid in crowd control," said Police Chief Nathan Harper. "Additional fencing proved very effective in controlling crowds during the Super Bowl Parade." Twelve more police officers and 5 additional LCE agents have also been added to this year's celebration.

Police will again beef up their presence in the South Side, a popular after-parade hot spot. In addition to private details and on-duty patrols, additional officers will be stationed in the area.

Jim Green, Chairman of the St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee, encouraged families to attend the parade. "The Mayor's efforts to improve public safety during special events like this resulted in a more family-friendly parade," said Green. "Last year, we saw more families attend the parade than ever, and with the increased law enforcement presence being implemented again, we hope to see even more on Saturday."

This year, in memory of An Gorta Mor "The Great Hunger" in 1847 in Ireland, the Pittsburgh St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee and the Hibernian Hunger Project have joined forces with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank in collecting food for the less fortunate. The St. Patrick's Day Parade Food Drive begins at 9:30 a.m. All are encouraged to bring non-perishable items to any of the collection sites, located at Mellon Arena, Mayor Caliguiri statue at the City-County Building, and by the reviewing stand at the Steelworkers' Building.

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MAYOR ENCOURAGES FAMILIES TO BE PREPARED DURING AN EMERGENCY

Reminds residents to change batteries in flashlights and portable radios when changing clocks

Date:  March 6, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(Pittsburgh) March 6, 2009     Daylight Savings Time begins at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 8.  While most people remember to change their clocks and “spring forward,” Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire (PBF) are giving residents a life-saving reminder – to rev up their emergency power kit by changing the batteries in their flashlights and portable radios. 

“We want our residents to be safe and ready for any severe weather that may arise,” said Mayor Ravenstahl. “Taking the time now to prepare an emergency power kit for you and your family can save lives and prevent needless injuries.”

As a preparedness measure, the PBF has joined forces with Energizer and the International Association of Fire Chiefs for the Power Through It All™ campaign.  The campaign urges people to change their flashlight and portable radio batteries when changing their clocks in the spring.   In addition, it recommends they have a well-stocked emergency power kit – complete with fresh batteries, flashlights, battery-powered radios and portable battery-powered cell phone chargers - for when outages strike.

“The spring and summer months bring with them the heightened possibility of severe weather that can instantly disrupt daily life with sudden power outages,” said City Public Safety Director Mike Huss.  “A short outage may result in no more than the inconvenience of having to reset clocks, but a loss of electrical power for longer durations can result in the risk of injury, illness or even death.”  

The campaign also warns against the use of candles during black-outs.  “A working flashlight for each member of the family can prevent injuries in a darkened environment,” said PBF Chief Darryl Jones. “Lighted candles pose a particularly dangerous risk of fires in stormy conditions, especially when there’s a potential for a gas leak.”

Power Through It All is the spring and summer counterpart to “Change Your Clocks, Change Your Battery®,” the fall program that urges Americans to get into the habit of changing the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when they change their clocks back to standard time.

The Mayor reminds citizens that life-saving detectors are still available through the Mayor’s Free Smoke Detector Program. “It’s still not too late to replace the batteries in your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, or to call 311 for a free smoke detector,” said Mayor Ravenstahl.   “Making sure your alarms are working is one of the most important steps you can take for you and your families’ safety.”

To request a smoke detector, residents may call the Mayor’s 311 Response Line and the request will be directed to the Fire Department. The Department can also help with installation. Since the Mayor’s Free Smoke Detector program began in February 2007, the fire department has distributed nearly 2,500 smoke detectors.

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CITY TO SELL STEELERS STREETLIGHT POLE BANNERS

Date:  March 6, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 6, 2009 - The City of Pittsburgh Department of Public Works (DPW) is selling the Super Bowl XLIII streetlight pole banners to the public at a cost of $150 each. The banners, hung throughout the Pittsburgh Central Business District to cheer on the Steelers, are 3' X 6' vinyl with print on both sides. The banner may be viewed on the City's website at www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us.

Each banner cost the City $95. The additional $55 per banner will cover the City's installation and administrative fees. The 45 banners will be offered on a first come, first serve basis and are limited to one banner per respondent.

Interested buyers must log onto the City's website and submit contact information to register. Each submission will be time stamped and dated. The first respondents will be contacted by the DPW if a banner is available.

Those buyers must take proof of identification to the DPW Permit Office, located at 611 Second Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219, to pay for and pick up their banner.

Banners are only available through the City website and must be paid for by check, made out to "Treasurer, City of Pittsburgh."

The City considered auctioning the banners, but received only one reply during the bidding process. That vendor responded with a 35% flat fee commission.

"We felt that the commission fee was high, and with no minimum bid guarantee, we were concerned that we wouldn't be able to recoup our costs," said Art Victor, the City's director of operations. "After evaluating the situation, we decided to sell the banners at cost."

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EFFORTS TO TAKE BACK HOMEWOOD COMMUNITY UNDERWAY

District Judge orders property owner to clean up 40 dilapidated structures or face hefty fines

Date:  March 4, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

  :: Homewood Properties Fact Sheet 

(PITTSBURGH) March 4, 2009 Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, Councilman Reverend Ricky Burgess and community leaders today visited a stretch of dilapidated properties along Formosa Way that will no longer serve as the "blight-center" for the Homewood community. The visit marks the community's first "big win" in their efforts to regain safety in the area that is both the heart of Homewood and cotter of violence.

The property owner of 40 row-houses along Formosa Way was ordered yesterday by District Judge Cooper to address the properties' plethora of Bureau of Building Inspection (BBI) violations or face hefty fines. The second property put before the judge yesterday, an 84-unit complex along Hamilton Avenue also riddled with citations, was put on a two-week continuance.

"Yesterday's court decision to hold the property owner accountable means that we are on our way to taking back this community, block-by-block," Ravenstahl said. "With community support and aggressive City attention, we will fight to keep our neighborhoods safe and clean."

The visit marks the Mayor's return to Homewood after community leaders led him to their top area of concern - crime-ridden structures and alleyways between Sterrett and Collier Streets - during his October Taking Care of Business sweep. Just three hours after the sweep, a violent shooting took place three blocks away.

Since the visit, the Mayor has met with community groups and together they've agreed to focus heavily on stabilizing the Sterrett-Collier area. Last fall, the Redd Up Crew bagged 160 tons of debris and removed 1700 square feet of graffiti from the stretch of neglected properties. In the meantime, the Mayor tasked the City's quality of life attorney to take aggressive legal action against the property owners.

BBI inspectors issued several citations for the Formosa and Hamilton properties in July, October, and November of 2008 for everything from excess rubbish and weeds, to rotted porches, fire escapes, and broken windows.

The ruling yesterday holds the property owner accountable for all of the violations to the tune of $1,000 per day, per violation. The hearing was attended by more than 30 community members in the now decentralized housing court. The second property case heard by the magistrate was continued for two weeks so that the owner can secure counsel.

"We appreciate the Mayor's efforts to address our concerns and improve the quality of life in Homewood," said Reverend Ware, Homewood Brushton Community Coalition Organization president. "Targeting landlords who are consistently adding to the blight in our community is removing a huge obstacle in our fight to make Homewood a place that people can be proud of."

The Mayor has also ordered BBI to demolish the following targeted condemned properties: 7304-7320 and 7305-7321 Fleury Way; 611-619 and 610-618 Collier Street.

"We still have a lot of work to do," Ravenstahl said. "But together with the community, we will keep going after negligent property owners and addressing safety concerns block-by-block."

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NEIGHBORHOOD FESTIVALS RETURN WITH MARATHON

Community groups along race route receive up to $1500 for festival

Date:  March 3, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

  :: Neighborhood Festival Application (due March 27, 2009) 

(PITTSBURGH) March 3 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today called on communities along the Marathon course route to start planning their neighborhood festivals by applying for a $1500 matching grant offered by the Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon.

In year's past, the excitement of the Marathon has spurred many vibrant community festivals along the routes. Marching bands, neighborhood restaurants and businesses all take part to support the residents, visitors and athletes.

"In order to continue with the Pittsburgh Marathon tradition, we encourage groups to show their community pride and highlight their neighborhood on Marathon weekend," said Ravenstahl. "We're set to have the most runners ever and they will need extra excitement and support along the course route, so let's give it to them."

The Mayor and the race sponsors last week announced the Pittsburgh Fitness Challenge and the Mayor's Cup Award in order to encourage more team participation in one of the Marathon's events. Leaders in the workplace are encouraged to motivate their employees to take up teams and participate in the Marathon, half-Marathon, or 5 mile relay. The workplace with the most participants per percentage of employees will win the Mayor's Cup.

Guidelines for the Neighborhood Festival Program are similar to those offered in previous years. Applications are due Mar. 27. To qualify, neighborhood festivals must:

• Take place on race day, Sunday May 3, 2009, with optional additional activities throughout the Marathon weekend, May 1 - May 3, 2009;
• Submit applications by Friday, March 27, 2009;
• Be for matching funds program of up to $1,500.00 per neighborhood;
• Only one festival per neighborhood will be sponsored by the Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, a guideline which is meant to encourage joint efforts by groups within the designated neighborhoods.

More detailed information is included in the Neighborhood Festival Guidelines and application, available by contacting the Marathon Office at 412-392-1021 or via email at info@pittsburghmarathon.com.

Neighborhoods along the race route include: Strip District, Downtown, Northside (East Allegheny, Central Northside & Allegheny West), West End (along W. Carson), Southside, Oakland, Shadyside, North Point Breeze, Homewood, East Liberty, Highland Park, Bloomfield, and Lawrenceville.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES OPPORTUNITY FOR ZONE 3 RESIDENTS TO HELP DESIGN PUBLIC ART PROJECT

Local artist to present preliminary designs today

Date:  March 3, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) March 3, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that residents of the City's Zone 3 neighborhoods will play an important role in the design of the public art project being planned for their new police station. Tonight, at 7p.m., at the Allentown Senior Center on 631 E. Warrington Ave., Kim Beck, the project designer, will show the community preliminary designs and incorporate their feedback into the final renderings.

Residents are invited to respond to Ms. Beck's preliminary designs and speak with her about their neighborhood. Ms. Beck will take a few days to complete the designs and then present them for final approval to the residents. The panels will adorn the floor windows of the new Zone 3 station, for beautification and security reasons, while still allowing in plenty of light.

"This is a great opportunity for the residents of Zone 3 to participate in this process," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "We want these panels to reflect the neighborhood and who better to serve as consultants' than the people who live there and know it best."

Ms. Beck was chosen by an artist selection panel composed of Zone 3 residents, and City department heads and professionals. The panel selected three local artists from seven whose work was pre-qualified by the Office of Public Art.

"The panel was impressed with Kim - not only with her work, but with her enthusiasm for the project and her commitment to meeting with and hearing from the community," said Morton Brown, the City's public art manager. "Community engagement is essential to the success of public art projects."

Public art helps to revitalize the community creating a sense of civic pride and identity, attracting attention to a city, and connecting artists with communities. Through public art projects, the Mayor hopes to further private and public investment in art design throughout City neighborhoods.

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MAYOR RAVENSTAHL ISSUES THE "PITTSBURGH FITNESS CHALLENGE"

The area company with the largest number of participants in the Pittsburgh Marathon events will be awarded the Mayor's Cup on race day, May 3, 2009

Date:  February 27, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Race Director Patrice Matamoros unveiled plans today for the Pittsburgh Fitness Challenge and the Mayor's Cup Award. The Pittsburgh Fitness Challenge is a friendly team competition which encourages groups of runners and walkers to train and race together in any of the May 3, 2009 marathon events. Team members can choose to register for the 26.2 mile Marathon, the 13.1 mile Philips Respironics Half Marathon or the FedEx Ground Marathon Relay, with distances of 5 miles and up. Any group can form a team, but the Mayor is particularly encouraging corporate wellness by creating a special award - the Mayor's Cup - for the area company with the largest team, by percentage of employees.

Mayor Ravenstahl comments, "Encouraging physical fitness at the workplace is just the right thing to do for our community. Training together encourages team work, and exercise is proven to improve morale, enhance health and even increase productivity." By making a commitment with a group, you get additional support to help you stick to your fitness goals. For Mayor Ravenstahl, this public promise to run is one that will help give him and his fellow employees additional incentive to lace up their running shoes this spring. "The City is committed to fielding its own team of runners and walkers, as we did in the Great Race. And yes, I will be one of them," says Mayor Ravenstahl.

Dick's Sporting Goods stepped forward to become the title sponsor for the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2009, helping to revive the race after a five year hiatus. Dick's also will be fielding a team of runners in the Pittsburgh Fitness Challenge, and believes they will have more than 200 runners and walkers on race day, as well as volunteers helping on the course.

Matamoros comments, "We are thrilled that so many Pittsburghers and Pittsburgh companies have come together to renew the marathon. It's been a true grass-roots effort, and we couldn't be more pleased with our results. Registration numbers are over 5,500 for all events combined - and growing!"

To register your team for the Pittsburgh Fitness Challenge, go to www.pittsburghmarathon.com. Once you've registered a team, team members can select the team during the online registrations process. For those who have registered as individuals but want to join a team, simply send an email to info@pittsburghmarathon.com requesting that your team affiliation be added to your registration. You'll receive a confirmation email once the process is complete.

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The Three Rivers Marathon is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit formed to manage the events of the Pittsburgh Marathon. Pittsburgh-based Dick's Sporting Goods, the largest full-line sporting goods store in the nation, is the title sponsor of the Pittsburgh Marathon. Fed Ex Ground is the title sponsor for the 4-person marathon relay. Philips Respironics is the title sponsor for the all-new half marathon.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES OPENING OF NEW YOUTH CURFEW CENTER

Center will be more welcoming for youths as counselors seek to find out and address why teens are out late

Date:  February 25, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 25 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that one of the region's leaders for providing comprehensive outreach for at-risk youths - Three Rivers Youth - will soon be operating the new City Curfew Center at their Oakland site located at 200 North Dithridge Street. The nonprofit organization ran the City's former curfew and truancy center Downtown and has been tasked with creating a more welcoming environment for youths so that they will be more apt to seek available help and support.

"Our goal here is to positively affect our young people who are at risk of falling into the trap of gangs, drugs, and violence," Ravenstahl said. "This means turning our focus on the reasons why they are staying out late and connecting them with resources that will address these issues and ultimately improve their lives and make our communities safer."

Youths found to be in violation of the City's curfew will be brought to the center and immediately assessed by intake counselors. The Center is set to open May 1. Ten staff members, made up of a supervisor and outreach counselors will be identifying which services youths need. Such services may include family-based support and counselors will ultimately coordinate an action plan for connecting youths with appropriate community-based services.

"We're very excited to be launching this new partnership which we believe is the perfect fit to further the Mayor's vision of fostering a safer environment for our youths and communities," said Peggy Harris, president and CEO of Three Rivers Youth. "We believe that moments of crises can become catalysts for change in the lives of our youths and the perfect opportunity for intervention."

The nonprofit organization brings to the table 129 years of experience in serving at-risk youths and their families and more than 15 years of experience in operating the former combined curfew and truancy center. After a competitive request for proposal process which closed Feb. 9, a group of 15 committee members - comprised of nine community members, police leadership, and youth outreach experts - chose Three Rivers Youth and will be meeting with them quarterly to help measure their success and continually improve the program.

Committee members emphasized the need for Three Rivers Youth to be receptive to requests from community leaders to provide street outreach in their neighborhoods.

"Our agency believes that the success of this center will be determined by the creation of strong partnerships within the community," Harris said. "To that end we will have outreach counselors in the communities and schools engaging youths during all hours of the day, not just at night."

The Mayor committed to bringing back the center, which was closed in 2002, and has made a $500,000 commitment to do so. Last year, the Mayor hired more than 270 at-risk teens after bringing back the Pittsburgh Summer Youth Employment program in 2007.

To ensure that City youths and residents are aware of the curfew and understand how it applies to them, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police officers will be visiting community meetings and schools explaining the curfew.

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Curfew Times

School Year (September 1st to June 30th)

• After 10:00 pm and before 6:00 am on any Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.


• After 12:00 midnight and before 6:00 am on any Friday and Saturday.

Summer Months (July 1st to August 31st)

• After 11:00 pm and before 6:00 am on any Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
• After 12:00 midnight and before 6:00 am on any Friday and Saturday.

Three Rivers Youth is a private nonprofit agency providing services to abused, neglected, runaway and homeless youth between the ages of 12-21, and their families, since 1880. Their vision is to be the leader in innovative and model programs, providing excellent, comprehensive service for at-risk youth and their families.

Site of Curfew Center:

http://threeriversyouth.org/contemplate/assembler.php?page=dithridge

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MAYOR AND URBAN LEAGUE PRESENT 1ST ANNUAL BLACK HISTORY HONORS LEGACY AWARDS

Date:  February 25, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
Contact: Mary Kay Filter Dietrich, 412-227-4158
Vice President for Development & External Relations, Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh
mkdietrich@ulpgh.org

(PITTSBURGH) February 24, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Esther Bush, president of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, honored the late K. Leroy Irvis and the New Pittsburgh Courier at the 1st Annual Black History Honors Legacy Awards this evening. This inaugural event celebrated those who have advanced the mission of equality, opportunity, and prosperity for the City of Pittsburgh and the country.

The ceremony was hosted by KDKA's Lynne Hayes-Freeland and held in the lobby of the City-County Building in downtown Pittsburgh. Guests were treated to musical entertainment by the C.O.L. Jazz Band, a project of the Center of Life, under the direction of Executive Director Timothy Smith.

"This legacy award is something that I felt was long overdue, said Mayor Ravenstahl. "I wanted to do something special to acknowledge local contributions to Black History year round, and I'm glad to have a great partner in the Urban League to help bring this vision to life."

"We are pleased to be able to lend the Urban League's support to the Mayor's efforts to assure that the contributions of all of our region's citizenry are recognized," said Esther Bush.

Phillipe Petite, manager of the City's Equal Opportunity Review Commission, accepted the Individual Legacy Award on behalf of Catherine Irvis who did not attend due to illness. Mr. Petite previously worked with Mr. Irvis. The Individual Legacy Award is presented to one historical figure from the region that has made tremendous contributions to Black History and the country.

A special Organization Legacy Award was presented to the New Pittsburgh Courier, for exemplifying and continuing the work of the Individual Legacy honoree. Rod Doss, accepting on behalf of the New Pittsburgh Courier, and Mr. Petite were awarded with engraved, copper-glazed pottery pieces created by regional artist Paul Jay.

Honorable Mention certificates were awarded to: Dr. Dorothy Height, president emerita of National Council of Negro Women; William Strickland, president of Manchester Bidwell Corporation; the late playwright August Wilson; the Kingsley Association; Pittsburgh NAACP; and NEED - Negro Educational Emergency Drive for their contributions to the City of Pittsburgh.

The Mayor and Ms. Bush also unveiled a painting, entitled "Gateway to Dreams," designed by Leslie Ansley, Artist in Residence at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. The painting will be showcased in the lobby of the City-County building and a copper plaque will be commissioned and permanently mounted in its place. Each year, a new Legacy Awardee's name will be added to the plaque.

"The City of Pittsburgh is committed to celebrating diversity 365 days a year," said the Mayor. "The Black History Legacy Awards and the plaque will give us an opportunity to pay tribute to those making significant contributions to Black History 365 days a year, as well as for years to come."

A panel made up of City of Pittsburgh and Urban League representatives selected the honorees.

Under Mayor Ravenstahl, the City has the most diverse leadership in its history. In 2007, the Mayor hired an Equal Employment Opportunity Officer, Tamiko Stanley, who kicked off an aggressive job-application outreach program called DiverseCity 365. This campaign has resulted in a sizeable jump in women and minority job applicants to the fire department and a measured increase in minority police applicants.

The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh was founded in 1918 with the shared National Urban League mission of enabling African-Americans to secure economic self-reliance, parity and power, and civil rights. Today, the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh has become one of the most accomplished affiliates in the country, leading by example with a perfect 5 out of 5 on a recent performance review conducted by the National Urban League. The rating assessed three key criteria: organizational soundness, organizational vitality, and implementation of mission.

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RESOURCE FAIR FOR UNEMPLOYED AND DISPLACED WORKERS TO BE HELD TOMORRROW

Date:  February 23, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 23, 2009 Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that a resource fair will be held on the South Side tomorrow in order to assist and connect the unemployed with jobs and community resources. The fair, sponsored by the Pennsylvania departments of Labor & Industry, Insurance, Public Welfare, PA CareerLink Pittsburgh Allegheny County and the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board is free and open to the public.

The fair will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Hall, 5 Hot Metal Street (near 29th and East Carson). Free parking will be provided and the location is accessible by public transit (51 B/D/G). This event is not a job fair. It is an outlet for community resources that may be able to help the unemployed and jobseekers get back on their feet.

A series of concurrent workshops will be held throughout the day that will provide participants with information ranging from health care options, support services for families, and financial and job search assistance.

"Though Pittsburgh's unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the nation, our residents are not immune to the economic crisis," Ravenstahl said. "This fair will be a one-stop-shop for residents who need help with job-placement, utility and food assistance, avoiding foreclosure, and health care."

"We're proud and happy to join along with the other sponsors to present this resource fair to promote the awareness of the assistance that is out there," said Ron Painter, Chief Executive Officer of the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board. "We recognize these are hard times and we are pleased that the sponsoring organizations, through utilizing the public workforce investment funds, are able to provide some information that may serve as a safety net for workers."

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MAYOR AND URBAN LEAGUE OF GREATER PITTSBURGH PRESENT 1st ANNUAL BLACK HISTORY HONORS AWARDS

Date:  February 20, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

  :: More Black History Month information

  :: Invitation to Event 

(PITTSBURGH) February 20, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Esther Bush, president of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, will present the 1st Annual Black History Honors Awards at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 24. The awardees will be announced during a special ceremony and unveiling in the City-County Building Lobby.

The ceremony will include a legacy award which will be given each year to one historical figure from the region that has made tremendous contributions to Black History and our country. A special 2009 Black History Honors Award will be presented to an organization that exemplifies and continues the work of the honoree. The Mayor will also recognize a list of distinguished Black History makers from Pittsburgh with honorable mentions for their contributions.

"This inaugural event will honor Black History makers who have advanced the mission of equality, opportunity, and prosperity for our City and country," Ravenstahl said.

A panel made up of City of Pittsburgh and Urban League representatives selected the honorees. An invitation only reception begins at 6:00 p.m. and the program, open to the public, begins at 6:30 p.m.

"We are pleased to be able to lend the Urban League's support to the Mayor's efforts to assure that the contributions of all of our region's citizenry are recognized," said Esther Bush.

Under the Mayor, the City has the most diverse leadership in its history. In 2007, the Mayor hired an Equal Employment Opportunity Officer, Tamiko Stanley, who kicked off an aggressive job-application outreach program called DiverseCity 365. This campaign has resulted in a sizeable jump in women and minority job applicants to the fire department and a measured increase in minority police applicants.

"We're proud of our efforts and the efforts of those in the community who continue to raise the awareness of the many opportunities that exist in our City," Ravenstahl said. "It's time we take a step back and honor these accomplishments."

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES CITY SEEKING PROPOSALS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE MONETIZATION

Date:  February 20, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 20, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the Pittsburgh Parking Authority (PPA) is soliciting proposals from qualified consultants in determining the best way to proceed with the possible monetization of its parking assets.

The Mayor last month called on the Authority to look into the revenue that could be generated through monetization. Such revenue, the Mayor explained, would be infused into the City's 36 percent funded pension system.

"We've done everything we can to right the pension ship, but right now bold ideas are needed to ensure that future liabilities don't take away from critical public safety and core services down the road," Ravenstahl said. "This process will ultimately tell us if monetizing these assets makes the best sense for the residents of our City."

The Mayor last December increased the City's minimum municipal obligation to the pension fund and adopted a defined-contribution plan for non-union employees - both first time actions. In addition, last November, the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities approved the Mayor's Four Point Plan for Pension Reform, which calls for statewide changes to the pension funding system, among others.

"Even with the Mayor's bold moves, our pension consultants stated that an infusion of cash is needed to stabilize the fund," said City Finance Director Scott Kunka. "Since then, we've been looking very seriously and critically at ways to generate money for a pension cash infusion."

Other cities have successfully monetized public infrastructure assets. The City of Chicago generated more than $500 million from the lease of its parking garages.

The request for proposal (RFP) is available on the City's and PPA's websites and due Mar. 20.

Monetization RFP 

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MAYOR TO MEET WITH PRESIDENT OBAMA ON THE AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT

Date:  February 19, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 19, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he and the U.S. Conference of Mayors leadership will meet with U.S. President Barack Obama and U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden at the White House tomorrow, February 20, at 10:30 a.m.

"I'm excited to talk with the President and his administration about bringing 21st Century job growth and creation to the residents of our City," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "I look forward to the implementation of this historic legislation so that we can invest in critical infrastructure projects that will further transform our economy."

Led by U.S. Conference of Mayors President Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, more than 60 mayors will also meet with members of the President's Cabinet. The meeting will focus on the implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

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MAYOR'S PLAN FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT STREET LIGHTS UNDERWAY

Request for information sets timeline for aggressive process to implement cost-saving, green lighting strategy

Date:  February 18, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 18, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City has issued a Request for Information (RFI), available on the City's website, inviting street-lighting vendors to apply to participate in Pittsburgh's first Energy-Efficient Streetlight Conversion pilot program.

The City currently operates 39,779 street lights using 2,293,748 kilowatts-per-hour, at a yearly cost of approximately $3,242,008. The Mayor's Office of Sustainability is hoping to shave up to 50-60 percent of that cost by replacing the lights with green technologies.

"This project is exciting because it has the potential to improve the quality of lighting in the City, expand our greenprint' and save taxpayer dollars," Ravenstahl said. "It's a win-win situation for taxpayers and the environment, and just the beginning of our efforts to be more energy-efficient."

Fifty percent of the City's street lighting costs are fixed and the other half, which is made up of commodity and transportation, could be reduced by as much as 50- 60 percent a year. This reduction translates into possible yearly savings of $810,502 to $972,602. Additionally, associated maintenance costs, at an average of $1 million yearly, could be reduced by as much as 75 percent.

Lighting technologies to be considered in the RFI include, but are not limited to, LED (Light Emitting Diode), induction, and metal halide. The City intends to leave the pilot project in place for six-months, in order to assess the different technologies on criteria including energy demand, light output and quality, upfront and maintenance costs, expected lifetime for fixtures, and calculated payback period.

There will be a pre-bid meeting on February 25, and final responses are due at 12:00 p.m., March 11, 2009. The City plans to notify participants of their acceptance into the pilot project on April 6, 2009, and to begin installation of fixtures the first week of May.

To ensure that the decision-making process is fair, open, and transparent, the City will utilize expertise from the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Engineering to complete a comprehensive assessment of the various lighting technologies and fixtures. Following the pilot, the City plans to release a Request For Proposal (RFP) to begin replacing streetlights throughout the City of Pittsburgh.

In late 2008 the City completed its retrofit of nearly 800 intersections with LED traffic signals, which saves taxpayers $20,000 per month. Last month, the Mayor announced the City's plan to install solar panels at a City firehouse. And this spring, the City is scheduled to update approximately 85 street lights on Grandview Avenue, from McCardle Roadway to Shiloh Street. The plan is to replace all the poles and attach new fixtures with a "green" energy system. Money for this project was provided through a $400K grant, obtained by Senator Wayne Fontana.

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MAYOR ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO BE 'PITTSBURGH SAVERS'

Initiative gives residents tools and tips to save money toward long-term goals

Date:  February 18, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Pittsburgh Saves Brochure 

Pittsburgh Saves Poster 

Pittsburgh Saves Seminars 

Pittsburgh Saves Website

(PITTSBURGH) February 18 2009 Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today called on City residents to "build wealth, not debt" by signing up to be a "Pittsburgh Saver." The call to action is part of a weeklong, national initiative, called America Saves. From Feb. 22 to Mar. 1, the initiative aims to increase awareness on the need to save money and commit to a financial goal such as buying a house or paying down debt. Launched in 2001 with one city, Cleveland, Ohio, America Saves has more than 50 local, state and national campaigns. As of today, Pittsburgh Saves is joining those ranks.

"The strategies we've used to get our City's financial house back in order are the same strategies Pittsburgh Savers can use," Ravenstahl said. "By building a nest egg, we've been able to tackle our debt and invest in our neighborhoods. Our efforts have us well positioned in this tough economy, and I'm here to tell you that saving now and spending wisely is very important."

Pittsburgh Saves, coordinated locally by the Financial Education Consortium of Southwestern Pennsylvania and NeighborWork ® - a coalition of local financial institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations - will be promoting saving at various locations in the City throughout the week.

Area residents will be asked to enroll as Pittsburgh Savers by committing to put money away towards a goal, such as an emergency fund, house, or education, or to reduce debt. To assist them in reaching their goal, Pittsburgh Saves offers a number of benefits including:

• Newsletters with savings tips;
• Information about local financial education events;
• Savings accounts with no minimum balance or start-up fees at one of the area's sponsoring banks - this allows individuals to start saving at any level.

Signing up is easy and free. Residents may go to one of the areas four sponsoring banks, National City, PNC, Huntington, and Fifth-Third, catch up with volunteers alongside the "Saves Chair," or log onto www.youcontrolyourmoney.org/PittsburghSaves.

The Financial Education Consortium aims to sign up more than 300 area residents as Pittsburgh Savers during Saves Week '09. Richard Witherspoon, chair of the Financial Education Consortium believes, "This campaign couldn't come at a better time. The recent economic situation has helped Pittsburgh residents, and people all across the country realize how important it is to save their money for tough times. Now Pittsburgh Saves will supply them with positive encouragement and the tools to make it happen."

Residents may spot the Pittsburgh Saves Chair at locations throughout the City, which serves to remind citizens that "it all adds up" - even change underneath chair cushions. Volunteers will be distributing literature alongside the chair, including information on numerous financial education seminars to be held Citywide. The seminars, hosted by Financial Education Consortium members, will be held around the area. At each presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to become a Pittsburgh Saver, as well as learn valuable information to help them reach their savings goals.

Pittsburgh Saves is part of the national America Saves campaign, a nationwide effort managed by the non-profit Consumer Federation of America.

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MAYOR UNVEILS PLANS FOR MARKET SQUARE, HIGHLIGHTS PITTSBURGH'S GROWTH

Annual Meeting Showcases Record Development Numbers as New Projects Speak to Pittsburgh's Resilience

Date:  February 17, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

Market Square Illustrative Sketch 

PITTSBURGH, PA - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today showcased record development numbers before announcing restoration plans for Pittsburgh's historic Market Square during the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership's (PDP) Annual Meeting held this morning at the DoubleTree Hotel Pittsburgh City Center.

More than $4 billion in investment is currently planned or already underway in Downtown's Central Core which includes projects in the categories of office/retail, residential, mixed-use, educational/civic, park/trail and transportation.

"While many cities across the country are struggling, Pittsburgh's story is one of success and growth, as recognized by national media over the past year, and recognized here today," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "Record numbers in residential and commercial building permits point to the fact that Pittsburgh is experiencing its Third Renaissance."

Speaking to an audience of more than 350 during the meeting, the Mayor pointed to data indicating the City's positive position.

• City-wide, small-scale residential construction is increasingtotal building permits for 1-2 family homes increased 44% from $43 million in 2006 to $62 million in 2008.
• Large-scale development permits increased 116% over the past two years.
• Large-scale building permit investment increased an average of 47% since 2006, compared to an average yearly decrease of 3% between 2001 and 2006.
• Of the $928 million in large-scale building permit investment in 2008, $757 million or 82% was invested in major projects (>$10 million in 2007 and 2008).

And, the good news continues. About 5,000 people now call the Golden Triangle home, up from 2,128 in 2000. That figure will only increase as 288 new units are set to come online over the next year.

Downtown is also one of the most sought-after office addresses with 1,650 new employees between Siemens Power Generation, Equitable Resources and UPMC - companies who've relocated or expanded to Downtown.

The cultural community is thriving with more than 1.5 million visitors in 2008. Broadway shows drew 300,000 people which generated an economic impact of $30 million for the City. The four-week run of Jersey Boys attracted 90,000 visitors and generated a $12 million impact (400,000 in parking and amusement taxes).

Point Park has begun work on its Academic Village - a $210 million investment in Downtown that will include 10,000 square feet of green space, 27,000 square feet of retail space, 10 renovated buildings, three new theaters, 50 new trees along Wood Street and 1,200 students housed in residence halls.

Market Square Renovation

One project scheduled to break ground this year is historic Market Square. After a public-process period that began last spring, Mayor Ravenstahl announced details on the new Market Square design and timeline.

"Neighborhoods throughout the City are experiencing record growth, and Downtown is at the forefront," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "Market Square is at the center of much of this development and investing in this asset is critical to Downtown's continued growth."

The final Market Square design is a hybrid of the three proposals offered to the community in May: Minimal, Oasis and Historic.

"I want to thank the residents, business owners, and stakeholders for their input on this very important project," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "I believe that picking the best aspects of each design will transform the Square from an already booming place, to an international model for public spaces."

The single-level piazza design removes through-traffic and dramatically slows traffic around the perimeter of the Square, providing for more flexibility and usable space. Twenty-seven parking spaces will be retained, along with loading zones and ingress and egress routes to support businesses. Outdoor dining is a key component of the design.

Wilbur Smith Engineers will work with Market Square designer, Dina Klavon, to bid out the $5 million project early this summer. Construction is slated to begin in August and completed by the end of May 2010 with a grand reopening and extensive programming and entertainment next summer.

So far, $4.5 million has been secured for the project, which includes a $2 million commitment from the City of Pittsburgh, with support from Governor Rendell and State R-Cap funds and $2.5 million combined from RK Mellon, Colcom Foundation and Heinz Endowments. The Mayor and the PDP will seek $500,000 from other foundations and local corporations that will benefit from the renovated Market Square.

"Thanks to Allegheny County District Attorney, Stephen Zappala, Mayor Ravenstahl and the City Police Department for their work in reducing crime in the Square which allows this next phase of improvements to happen," said Michael Edwards, President and CEO, PDP.

The District Attorney and City Police's efforts to improve Downtown's safety has resulted in the elimination of three nuisance establishments. With the Mayor's leadership, there are now eight beat and three bicycle officers Downtown; two beat officers are dedicated to Market Square.

Mayor Ravenstahl concluded, "These tremendous efforts to keep Market Square safe, along with the PDP's safety ambassadors and Clean Team has given Downtown a solid foundation from which to grow and attract more investment."

Downtown: 2009 and Beyond

Celebrating its 15 years of progress and looking ahead, the PDP will continue its legacy of keeping Downtown clean and safe. Thanks to the support of Colcom Foundation, the PDP in 2009 will commit $375,000 in grants through its Paris to Pittsburgh Program with the goal of completing 15 projects by year-end. The PDP will also provide $2 million in funds to transform vacant upper floors into residential spaces, furthering its efforts to make Downtown a livable neighborhood.

About the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership

The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) is a dynamic, nonprofit organization comprised of business and community leaders, property owners, civic organizations, foundations and residents who provide energy, vision and advocacy for Downtown Pittsburgh. Working collaboratively with its partners, the PDP strives to create a positive Downtown experience for residents, workers and visitors alike. The PDP's strategic initiatives include clean and safe services, transportation, housing and economic development and advocacy. For more information, visit www.DowntownPittsburgh.com.

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MAYOR LAUNCHES VALENTINE'S DAY CONTEST TO SHOWCASE HEARTFELT NEIGHBORHOOD STORIES

Date:  February 12, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 12, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced his Valentine's Day contest for City residents. This year's contest, titled "Six Burgh Reasons Why I ♥ My Neighborhood," celebrates the love Pittsburghers have for their neighborhoods and the stories behind their sentiments.

"Every day I'm inspired by residents of this great City and their commitment to our neighborhoods," said Ravenstahl. "I've had the pleasure to hear many heart-warming stories about why Pittsburghers love their neighborhood. It's time for their stories, for our stories, to be told so we're launching the Six Burgh Reasons Why I ♥ My Neighborhood' contest."

The aim of the contest is this: Tell the Mayor your love story with your neighborhood - incorporating six reasons why you feel that way. Write an essay, narrate your story through photos or create a video. If your entry is one of the top six chosen, you will be notified and honored at a neighborhood celebration in May, and your entry will be posted on the City's website and the City Cable Channel.

"Pittsburgh's comeback story, recently showcased in many national publications, is a story about real people who have stayed committed to their communities and family," Ravenstahl said.

Said the Mayor, "We had such a great response to last year's Valentine's Day contest that we wanted to do something like it again this year, but bigger. For this contest, we needed to allot more time for submissions, so we're launching it for Valentine's Day and allowing two months for entries. We threw in a little bit of Super Bowl mania for fun with the Six Burgh theme by asking for six reasons and choosing six winners."

Participants must be residents of the City of Pittsburgh and have until April 13, 2009 to submit their entries. Essays must be 250 words or less, and videos must be no longer than 10 minutes. Only written essays can be submitted online. All entries can be mailed in, dropped off at the Mayor's office or at any of the City of Pittsburgh Senior Centers. All entrants must sign a General Release, Indemnification, and Consent form should their entry be chosen. A complete list of rules, along with locations of the Senior Centers, can be found on the City of Pittsburgh website at www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us. Rules may also be obtained at the Mayor's Office on the 5th floor of the City-County Building, 414 Grant St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, or at any of the City's Senior Centers.

For more information, log onto the City of Pittsburgh website, or contact the Mayor's Neighborhood Initiatives office at 412-255-8680.

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CITY PROVIDING FREE VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE

Services offered through April 15, 2009

Date:  February 9, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 9, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that the City is offering free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) now through Wednesday, April 15 at the 2nd floor of the City County Building . VITA utilizes IRS-trained volunteers to prepare federal, state and local tax returns as well as Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) and property tax/rent rebates.

"Last year more than 1,475 residents took advantage of this program," said Ravenstahl. "We're pleased to offer VITA services again this year and I thank all of the volunteers who so generously offer their time and assistance."

VITA hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Services are provided on a first come first serve basis, walk-ins only and no appointments. No returns will be started after 2:15 p.m. VITA is located on the 2nd floor of the City-County Building, 414 Grant St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

Those needing assistance must bring the following documents and information: a current and valid drivers license, state ID, or student ID, as required by federal law; a social security card for every person listed on the tax return (required before a refund can be processed); and the amount of their stimulus check for tax year 2008. To verify the stimulus check amount, call 1-866-234-2942.

Only one tax form is permitted per person. No schedule "D" or rental schedules will be processed until March. VITA will be closed on April 2009 for the Good Friday Holiday.

VITA is an IRS sponsored program, and there are locations around the county. For more information contact the Mayor's 311 Response Line by calling 311 or 412-255-2621.

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MAYOR AND CITIPARKS CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Special exhibit with tribute to service organizations begins February 9; public invited to free opening night reception public invited to free opening night reception

Date:  February 6, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 6, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Citiparks announced today that an exhibit celebrating Black History Month will once again be displayed in the lobby of the City-County Building in downtown Pittsburgh. "Born to Lead, Called to Serve: A Celebration of African-American Service Organizations" kicks off Monday evening, February 9, at 6:00 p.m. and continues weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through Friday, February 27.

"This year the City-County Building lobby serves as the setting for a magnificent collection of artifacts honoring the civic service and educational focus of numerous service organizations," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "The City's 2009 Black History Month exhibit pays tribute to the inspiring men and women who continue to enrich the lives of our residents."

"Born to Lead, Called to Serve: A Celebration of African-American Service Organizations" will feature photographs and other memorabilia honoring the civic service and educational focus of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and several other service organizations including Links Incorporated, FROGS (Friendly Rivalry Often Generates Success), and Aurora Reading Club.

The public is invited to attend the exhibit's opening night reception on Monday, February 9, between 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the City-County Building lobby. The ceremony will open with remarks by Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl.

For more information, call Citiparks at 412-255-2493 or visit www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us/parks.

The City of Pittsburgh's celebration of Black History Month is presented by Citiparks and is sponsored by Dwelling House Savings & Loan, WAMO 106.7 FM and the New Pittsburgh Courier.

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MAYOR HIRES NEW PUBLIC ART MANAGER

Date:  February 6, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 6, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today the hiring of the City's new public art manager, Morton Brown. Through public art projects to occur at the new Zone 3 police station and arena as well as property on Stanwix Street, the Mayor hopes to further private and public investment in art design throughout City neighborhoods.

"Having a commitment to the quality of the built environment is important because it has a direct impact on Pittsburgh's economic development," Ravenstahl said. "Public art creates a sense of civic pride and identity, it attracts attention to a city, and it connects artists with communities. One of the goals for this position is to foster and perpetuate this connection, while helping to revitalize our great City."

One of the first priorities for Mr. Brown will be his participation in the artist selection jury for "Sculpting Light on Stanwix," a new art project commissioned by the owners of 11 Stanwix Street, a large office building in downtown Pittsburgh. Rugby Realty Co., Inc. in conjunction with The Pittsburgh Glass Center and EDGE studio has issued a national call for artists to design a lighting project for its downtown office building, and Mr. Brown will serve on the artist selection committee.

"This project, one of the first of its kind shows how public-private partnerships can weave in public art to improve the City's quality of life," said Heather McElwee, Pittsburgh Glass Center assistant director.

"We are excited to be the sponsor of this event and we hope that it will encourage other property owners to invest in their properties by investing in the arts", said Aaron Stauber, president of Rugby Realty.

Additionally, a project of the Public Art Manager, in partnership with the Office of Public Art, will be to facilitate the restoration and re-installation of five pieces of public art from the City's collection as part of a conservation grant from The RK Mellon Foundation. It is planned that these five pieces will be placed in Pittsburgh neighborhoods that will have applied to receive them in 2009.

"I am thankful that the Mayor acknowledges that public art benefits the City economically, socially, and aesthetically," Mr. Brown said. "My position provides a government connection to support individual artists, neighborhood organizations, and private developers to all take part in improving Pittsburgh's built environment."

Originally from Arkansas, Morton, 36, completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Central Arkansas in 1996. Morton's involvement with public art began while he was in college. He painted murals in private homes, for businesses, churches and on public buildings, and he was also involved with the Smithsonian Institution's Save Outdoor Sculpture! program participating in outdoor sculpture conservation efforts on his campus.

While he earned his Master of Fine Arts in painting at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, Morton also worked as a mural artist with the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program completing two murals before moving to Pittsburgh in 2001. From 2003 to 2007, Morton helped create and administrate the Sprout Public Art Program, a nonprofit organization that utilizes local artists to paint community murals throughout the region. From 2007 to 2009, Morton worked as a public artist, an art consultant for the City of Pittsburgh Department of Parks and Recreation, and an instructor at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts.

The Public Art Manager is a full time staff position at the Department of City Planning. The position was created in 2007 with a grant from The Heinz Endowments, to facilitate public art issues that are directly related to the City of Pittsburgh. The Public Art Manager is the staff person for the Art Commission, manages the City's public art collection, works with City staff to identify public art opportunities, and represents the city at community meetings and on committees related to public art.

Morton and his wife, Traci Weatherford-Brown, live in the Brighton Heights neighborhood with their daughter, Lily, and son, Harper.

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MAYOR SAYS SUPPORT FOR PROMISE GAINING MOMENTUM

Cites recent foundation commitment and doubling of magnet school applications as evidence; encourages families to contribute via City tax form

Date:  February 5, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 5, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that residents can continue the momentum set forth by recent donations and take a greater role in improving their City's future by contributing to the Pittsburgh Promise via City tax forms. The call to action came after an announcement today that the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation pledged $2.5 million to the scholarship program over the next five years, taking the fundraising total for the current academic year to nearly $8.5 million.

"Yet another big donation in this tough economic climate proves that the Promise continues to gain momentum," Ravenstahl said. "The fact that this winters applications to magnet schools have doubled is evidence that this historic program is showing real signs of success. On top of that, nearly 800 youths are already receiving tuition checks and charting a new, brighter course for theirs and Pittsburgh's future."

The Promise, launched in 2006 by Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Superintendent Mark Roosevelt, is a college scholarship program for students of the Pittsburgh Public Schools and City charter schools. In addition to encouraging high school students to work hard and dream big, the Promise is an economic development tool that encourages population growth.

In recent months, a number of foundations have announced contributions to the program. Last month, more than 100,000 City households received City tax forms that feature a special opportunity to write a separate check or money order, for any amount, to help support the post-high school education benefit for eligible city high school graduates.

"The success of this program depends on the efforts of everyone - from foundations and corporations, to small companies, families and individuals - all of whom will benefit from the scholarship program's impact on the community," Ravenstahl said. "The future of our young people depends on everyone."

A donation of $20 dollars per household would generate $2 million dollars and bring the scholarship fund closer to meeting the $90 million challenge grant.

In December 2007, the Pittsburgh Promise took shape with a $100 million commitment from UPMC, including an initial $10 million to support the 2008 graduating class. The remaining $90 million is a challenge grant, intended to spur support and contributions from all sections of the community to raise an additional $135 million.

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RAVENSTAHL, ONORATO ANNOUNCE PLANS FOR SUPER BOWL XLIII VICTORY PARADE

Date:  February 2, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) February 2, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and County Executive Dan Onorato today announced plans to honor the history-making victory of the six-time Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers with a parade through Downtown Pittsburgh tomorrow, February 3, starting at 12:00 noon at the intersection of Grant and Seventh Streets.

"We are excited to give fans an opportunity to celebrate with their team, the number one Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers." said Ravenstahl. "Let's welcome home our guys and show the world what Pittsburgh and the Steeler Nation are all about."

"Tomorrow's parade will be a great opportunity for this region to honor this amazing Steelers team and the Rooney family for bringing the Vince Lombardi trophy back to the City of Champions for a record sixth time," said County Executive, Dan Onorato.

The parade will take off at 12:00 noon and proceed down Grant Street. From Grant Street, the parade will loop to the Boulevard of the Allies and end at Stanwix Street where a stage celebration will be held. A media reviewing stand will be set up near the stage.

Color and honor guards comprised of City and County public safety personnel will commence the parade. Six marching bands from Thomas Jefferson, Bethel Park, South Fayette, Carrick, Perry and Brashear high schools will follow, representing each Steelers Super Bowl victory.

Barricades will be set up throughout the parade route to ensure the safety of fans and players. The City encourages all fans to take public transportation. If driving is necessary, fans are encouraged to park on the periphery of downtown.

Road closures are as follows:

• 6:30 p.m. this evening to 3 p.m. tomorrow - Boulevard of the Allies between Stanwix Street and Commonwealth Place.
• 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow - the entire parade route from Grant Street to the Boulevard of the Allies to Commonwealth Place.
• Please note that there will be no parking on the Boulevard of the Allies tomorrow morning. Traffic will be back to normal for tomorrow's evening rush hour.

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MAYOR PRESENTS FOOD BANK WITH DONATION

Mayor and chief of staff donate 2.5 percent cost of living adjustment

Date:  January 28, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) January 28, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today joined Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank CEO Joyce Rothermel for lunch-time volunteering at one of the City's 52 food assistant agencies, the Jubilee Kitchen, located in the Hill District. Before they served, the Mayor presented the Food Bank with a $4951.04 check, representing his and his chief of staff's 2009 donation of their 2.5 percent cost of living adjustment.

"Everyone can take part in helping those in need," Ravenstahl said. "Whether it's donating canned goods at the Steelers Rally tomorrow, or volunteering at your local kitchen, every dollar and every minute of help counts."

Since the Mayor took office, City funding to hunger groups increased from $125,000 in 06, to $215,000 in '08, representing his public commitment to fighting hunger.

"Each person can take a stand against hunger in his own way," said Joyce Rothermel, CEO of the Food Bank. "We are of course grateful to the Mayor, and his Chief of Staff, both for their public support with City funding, but also for their personal commitment. The Food Bank helps 380 member agencies like the Jubilee Kitchen, so every donation is critical, especially in these hard economic times."

Said the Mayor, "I want to thank Sr. Ligouri Rossner and her wonderful staff at the Jubilee Kitchen who provide this service to City residents. While funding is essential to help stop hunger, it is equally important that staff and volunteers help the Food Bank to serve the more than 20 million pounds of food to residents each year."

The Food Bank needs the support of the community, but is also available to those who need help. Residents who would like to volunteer or who are in need of services should call 412-460-3663, ext 456.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES SOLAR INSTALLATION PLANNED FOR CITY FIREHOUSE

Solar America City Grant Paves the Way to Promote and Encourage Use of Solar in the City

Date:  January 26, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
  :: More

(PITTSBURGH) January 26, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced this morning during the City's first Solar America Cities Training Workshop that the City is aggressively pursuing installing a solar hot water unit in one of the City's firehouses. The announcement came during opening remarks at the workshop, held at the IBEW on the Southside, which will educate and prepare City employees and representatives from universities, businesses and non-profits on the up-and-coming use of solar energy in City facilities and neighborhoods.

"Getting everybody at the table to learn about clean solar energy is the first big step toward developing a larger solar energy plan for Pittsburgh," Ravenstahl said. "Soon, a firehouse that runs hot water on solar energy will further represent our transformation as the black, gold, and green City -- and show businesses and residents that solar is the sustainable way to go."

In 2007, Pittsburgh was chosen as one of the inaugural 13 Solar America Cities awarded $200,000 in grant funding along with $250,000 in technical assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Representatives from the City convened a Solar Pittsburgh Task Force, and with assistance from Sandia National Laboratories, they've been preparing best practices studies with regard to solar permitting, solar zoning, solar financing and solar access laws.

Several months ago the Task Force began reviewing City facilities to determine which could best utilize a solar installation, provide the best possible payback on investment, and serve as a demonstration that solar energy is a viable option in Pittsburgh. Those facilities underwent energy audits performed by Conservation Consultants, Inc.

Through the energy audits and reviews of utility bills, the Task Force concluded that Firehouse 29 or Truck 34 were the best candidates for a solar hot water installation. In the coming days an announcement will be made as to which facility is chosen along with the timetable for issuing a competitive request for proposal and completion of the installation.

The workshop, which wraps up this afternoon at 4 p.m., will include brief tutorials on the basics of solar energy by representatives from the DOE and Sandia National Laboratory. Representatives from the City of Philadelphia, a new addition to the Solar America Cities family, are attending to learn more about the Pittsburgh program and outline collaboration strategies.

After remarks by Senator Ferlo, Mayor Ravenstahl was presented with a Solar America Cities sign by Tom Kimbis, market transformation director for the Solar Program at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

"Pittsburgh is taking the right steps toward developing solar sustainability," said Mr. Kimbis. "I applaud Mayor Ravenstahl and his team for choosing the harder road of first building a sustainable infrastructure, instead of simply throwing up a few solar arrays for a 'quick win'. Today's event clearly demonstrates Pittsburgh is making substantial forward progress in the Solar America Cities program."

Said the Mayor, "I'm proud of the steps we are taking in Pittsburgh to become more sustainable. Whether its expanding single-stream recycling to all neighborhoods, planting more than 700 trees throughout the City, retrofitting all of our traffic signals to super-efficient LED models, or exploring alternative energy sources, we stand committed to the Greening of Pittsburgh."

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MAYOR INTRODUCES BIKE RACK LEGISLATION

New ordinance, based on best practices, reinforces commitment to the cycling community

Date:  January 22, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) January 22, 2009 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today introduced legislation to City Council that makes it easier for property and business owners to install bicycle racks in the public right-of-way by simplifying the application process.

"We're seeing more and more people riding bikes in Pittsburgh than ever before," said Ravenstahl. "It's important that we show residents and our bicycle community that we are serious about Pittsburgh's role as a bike-friendly and green City."

Based on the legislation, the City of Pittsburgh's Encroachment Ordinance shall be amended to include bicycle rack installation. The amendment will allow for bicycle racks to be installed in the public right-of-way by property and business owners through a simple and expedited process. As part of the Ordinance, applicants are required to submit a detailed illustration of the exact location of the rack(s) which demonstrates the rack's conformance to the City of Pittsburgh Bicycle Parking Standards. The permit fee, regardless of the number of proposed racks, shall be $25.

According to the City's Bicycle Plan "the City shall increase the quantity and quality of end-of-trip bicycle facilities, such as parking and commuter facilities." The introduced legislation is a continuation of the City's pursuit to provide parking for its bicycle community.

"Bike racks are one of the most important symbols of a bike-friendly city," said Scott Bricker, executive director of Bike Pittsburgh. "They are a visual cue that bicycles are a welcome mode of transportation. This ordinance exemplifies the type of legislation that needs to be passed if Pittsburgh is serious about becoming a bike-friendly, sustainable community."

In 2004, the City increased the rate of installing bicycle racks as part of a partnership with Bike Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. The grant funded program installed bicycles racks throughout the City as identified based upon need and bicycle traffic volume. Upon completion of the program, the City-wide benefits of increased bicycle parking were evident and demand for racks continued. The introduced legislation today provides for an applicant friendly permitting process intended to encourage bicycle rack installation.

Under Mayor Ravenstahl, new bike lanes - the first two sets in the City of Pittsburgh - were striped on East Liberty Boulevard and Liberty Avenue. The City's first-ever bicycle and pedestrian coordinator, Stephen Patchan, was hired and is working hard to make City neighborhoods safer for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists. The Mayor and Councilman Patrick Dowd announced several bike/ped initiatives last August which addressed a spectrum of traffic, engineering and infrastructure improvements designed to protect cyclists and and pedestrians. The Mayor hopes to swiftly improve bicycle and pedestrian conditions in the City and plans on applying for "bicycle friendly status" in 2010.

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MOODY'S RANKS PITTSBURGH THE NATION'S BEST COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET

Date:  January 22, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
  :: Moody's Investors Service's Red-Yellow-Green ® report  

(PITTSBURGH) January 22, 2009 -- Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that an international finance agency has affirmed what residents, real estate developers and local and national media outlets already know: Pittsburgh is the top city in which to invest.

According to the Moody's Investors Service's Red-Yellow-Green ® report released yesterday, Pittsburgh is the best overall commercial real estate market in the U.S.

"Today, top credit experts have once again told the world that Pittsburgh's steady growth continues to shine during these tough economic times," Ravenstahl said. "With all eyes turned to Pittsburgh for the up-and-coming Super Bowl, we have a great opportunity to talk about all that our City has to offer."

The quarterly report measures the health of the commercial real estate markets that support the majority of loans in commercial mortgage backed securities. The report is based on data from the third quarter of 2008.

This accolade dovetails recent nods in Forbes Magazine naming Pittsburgh one of the top ten cities for job growth in 2009, calling it one of the "best places to look for employment in the new year." Recent articles in Times Magazine and the New York Times have lauded Pittsburgh's below average unemployment rate and recession proof economy. In 2007, Places Rated Almanac named Pittsburgh "America's Most Livable City."

Moody's report scores markets on a scale of 0 (weak) to 100 (strong). The scores in parentheses reflect previous quarter scores. The five best overall commercial real estate markets in the U.S. according to the report are: Pittsburgh 77 (72), Oklahoma City 74 (74), San Francisco 74 (74), Honolulu 72 (81) and, tied for fifth, Los Angeles 68 (72) and New York 68 (72). The five worst markets in the U.S. are: Phoenix 24 (30), Detroit 26 (40), Trenton NJ 33 (38), Jacksonville 33 (37), and Riverside 36 (52).

Since taking office, Mayor Ravenstahl has brought the City four bond-rating upgrades, including two from Moody's. Last week, Fitch Rating Services lauded the City's responsible budget and stable economy. The upgrade from Fitch means that all three major rating agencies have upgraded Pittsburgh's bond rating within the past 13 months.

The full report is attached.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES BOLD PLAN TO GENERATE PENSION FUNDS

Proposes leasing City parking garages; money generated to be infused into under-funded pension system

Date:  January 15, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
  :: Charts Presented at the Press Conference
  :: More

(PITTSBURGH) January 15, 2008 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today called on the Pittsburgh Parking Authority (PPA) to conduct a feasibility study on the revenue that would be generated from leasing the authority's 11 parking garages. Such revenue, the Mayor explained, would be infused into the City's 36% funded pension system.

"We've done everything we can to right the pension ship, but right now bold ideas are needed to ensure that future pension liabilities don't take away from critical public safety and core services down the road." Ravenstahl said.

The Mayor last month increased the City's minimum municipal obligation to the pension fund and adopted a defined-contribution plan for non-union employees; both first time actions. In addition, last November, the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities approved the Mayor's Four Point Plan for Pension Reform, which calls for statewide changes to the pension funding system, among others.

"Even with the Mayor's bold moves, our pension consultants stated that an infusion of cash is needed to stabilize the fund," said City Finance Director Scott Kunka. "Since then, we've been looking very seriously and critically at ways to generate money for a pension cash infusion."

Other cities have successfully monetized public infrastructure assets. The City of Chicago generated more than $500 million from the lease of its parking garages.

The Mayor stated during the press conference that raising taxes, issuing debt, and relying on state help would not be a viable solution.

"We know that it will not be easy to solve this problem, and we believe strongly that leveraging our existing assets is the best option for our workers and City taxpayers," Ravenstahl said. "As I say quite often, we did not get ourselves into this mess overnight, and it will certainly take bold ideas to make our pension fund whole."

The Mayor also discussed the prudent financial leadership that has occurred during his administration, dovetailing from the City's fourth bond rating upgrade last Monday.

"Our savings account is approaching nearly $100 million dollars," Ravenstahl said. "We continue to operate without issuing debt using a pay-as-you-go policy, and we continue to cut taxes."

The PPA board will vote Thursday to issue the request for proposal. Union and parking rate issues, among others, will be discussed as the proposal continues to take shape.

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MAYOR PLACES BET ON OWN LAST NAME

Date:  January 14, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
  :: More

(PITTSBURGH) January 14, 2008 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he will be ceremonially changing his last name from RAVENStahl to "STEELERStahl" until the Steelers' game/victory on Sunday.

"On behalf of the Steelers Nation, I've decided to remove the word 'Ravens' from my name just like the Steelers will remove them from the AFC Championship," Steelerstahl said. "From now until Sunday, all references to my name will reflect Pittsburgh's love and support for our Steelers - and suggest a victory."

The last half of the Mayor's name - in a strange coincidence - references Pittsburgh's blue-collar heritage and the Steelers' Steel Curtain defense.

"The Mayor's surname 'stahl,' is of German origin and translates to 'steel' in English, making the name change even more appropriate," said John Lyon, associate professor for the Department of German Studies at the University of Pittsburgh.

The Mayor officially adopted the name "Steelerstahl" today at 11 a.m. at the Department of Court Records, located on the first floor of the City-County building.

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ONORATO & RAVENSTAHL ANNOUNCE COMPREHENSIVE CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

Date:  January 12, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) January 12, 2009 - Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced a joint effort to reform campaign finance in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh. The County Executive and Mayor will submit identical legislation to their respective councils on Thursday, which will set limits on campaign contributions from individuals and political action committees.

"Now that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has upheld the right of local governments to impose limits on campaign contributions in local races, Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh are taking action to reform local elections," said Onorato.

The proposed contribution limits are $4600 per individual and $10,000 per political action committee per election cycle. The legislation will also include a "millionaire clause" for candidates who self-finance their campaigns. The exact details of the clause are still being finalized.

"Our joint efforts today will make sure that residents see real reform and that Pittsburgh and Allegheny County serve as models for statewide comprehensive campaign finance reform," said Ravenstahl. "I believe our historic efforts today will create the momentum to get serious about the issue of openness, equitability and opportunity at the state level."

The new limits are proposed to take effect on Jan. 1, 2010.

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MAYOR ANNOUNCES CITY'S FOURTH BOND RATING UPGRADE

Fitch upgrades Pittsburgh to 'BBB+', cites Mayor's fiscal management in reducing debt burdens through pay-as-you-go policy

Date:  January 12, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) January 12, 2009 – Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced that for the fourth time during his leadership, Pittsburgh has received bond rating upgrades from international finance experts. Fitch Ratings on Friday evening upgraded Pittsburgh's bond rating from 'BBB' to 'BBB+', calling the City's economic outlook "stable."

"At times of international financial woes, Pittsburgh's economy continues to ride the storm and serve as a model for cities throughout the country," Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said. "Our policies of holding the line on spending, cutting taxes and investing in our neighborhoods is working to make Pittsburgh's future brighter."

The upgrade dovetails off of recent articles in the New York Times and Forbes Magazine which noted Pittsburgh's low unemployment rate and economic viability.

Fitch's decision to upgrade the City's bond status was due in part by the Mayor's efforts to fund capital needs on a pay-as-you-go basis. Fitch also took note that the trend in population decline appears to be abating, the unemployment rate remains low, and strong education and health service sectors provide the City with long-term economic stability.

Since assuming office, the Mayor has submitted three consecutive structurally balanced budgets. The City's healthy savings account, approaching $100 million, is allowing the Mayor to focus efforts on putting more money toward debt and pension payments, while investing in neighborhood improvements.

Fitch also mentioned the City's long-term pension liability as an issue of concern down the road.

Since taking office, the Mayor has convened three statewide pension summits culminating with the creation and adoption of his Four-Point Plan for Pension Reform. For the first time in the City's history, the Mayor increased annual payments to the pension fund above the minimum required contribution and developed a defined-contribution plan for non-union employees that will reduce future pension liabilities.

"Under the Mayor's leadership, this City has and will continue to maintain its healthy financial position," said City Finance Director Scott Kunka. "This Mayor is doing everything in his power to restore Pittsburgh's financial health. From growing the City's savings account, to drastically reducing the City's long-term debt, to leading the charge for statewide pension reform – Pittsburgh is poised for growth."

The upgrade from Fitch means that all three major rating agencies have upgraded Pittsburgh's bond rating within the past 13 months, including upgrades by Moody's Investors Services in July 2008 and Standard and Poor's in December 2007.

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IT'S ON: RAVENSTAHL, SANDERS ANNOUNCE PLAYOFF BET

Date:  January 8, 2009
Contact: Joanna Doven, 412-255-2694
(mobile) 412-475-2387
joanna.doven@city.pittsburgh.pa.us
  :: More

(PITTSBURGH) January 8, 2009 - Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders have agreed to the terms of a friendly wager for this Sunday's NFL playoff game between the Steelers and Chargers.

If the Steelers best the Chargers, Ravenstahl will send Sanders a Steelers' jersey and winter cap, and a pair of skis donated by Willi's Ski & Board Shop. Sanders must then return to Ravenstahl a photo of himself wearing the Steelers' gear and holding the skis at the Sea World Penguin Encounter.

If the Chargers win, Sanders will send Ravenstahl a pair of Chargers' swim trunks and a jersey, and a surf board donated by Bob's Mission Surf Shop. Ravenstahl must then return to Sanders a photo of himself in the Chargers' gear, standing with the surfboard in front of one of Pittsburgh's famed Three Rivers.

"I'm sure Pittsburgh fans will appreciate Mayor Sanders decked out in Steelers gear," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "On his way back from the Penguin Encounter maybe he can stop at one of San Diego's Steelers' bars and watch us in the AFC Championship game."

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MAYOR DECLARES FALL TREE PLANTING A SUCCESS

Date:  December 30, 2008
Contact: Gigi Saladna, 412-255-2619
gigi.saladna@city.pittsburgh.pa.us

(PITTSBURGH) December 30, 2008 - Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that during the fall planting season, the City of Pittsburgh planted more than 700 trees throughout the city. More than 150 trees were planted in the business districts alone, including 40 in the downtown business district.

Urban Forester Lisa Ceoffe, from the Department of City Planning, explained that more than 30 different species of trees were planted, including native, flowering, and evergreen trees.

"These newly planted trees not only add to the beauty of our City but to our quality of life," said Mayor Ravenstahl. "Pittsburgh residents will benefit from the increase in shade canopy produced by these trees while our overall urban forest will benefit greatly from the diversity of species being planted."

Every year unhealthy City trees must be removed to prevent safety hazards; this year those trees were returned to the Cit