Abney: Local projects receive $12.85 million in state grant funding

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 21 – Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced today that eight local projects have been awarded more than $12 million in state grant funding.

“Once again, I am thrilled to announce these major investments in our community and in our neighborhoods,” Abney said. “These projects will not only support existing businesses or cultural programs but also will create opportunities for businesses to invest and grow in our community. I want to congratulate all the people and organizations that have worked to bring these projects to fruition and look forward to seeing them succeed in the future.”

Projects awarded today include:

  • $2.1 million for Pittsburgh Gateways Corp. to convert the former Connelley Vocational School into the Pittsburgh's Energy Innovation Center, creating flexible spaces for companies focusing on workforce training, energy innovation and incubation.
  • $1.5 million to Riverlife for renovations at Allegheny Riverfront Park. Measures will include removal of existing pavement, site preparation and grading, installation and sealing of new stone pavers, refurbishment of existing light posts and railing, tree pruning, planting soil amendments and perennial planting.
  • $3 million to help fund Astrobotic’s construction of a new four-story facility, adjacent to their current headquarters, to house labs, cleanrooms and offices.
  • $2 million for CCA CBD to renovate the former YWCA office and construct a new high rise residential tower in the Central Business District of Pittsburgh called City Club Apartments.
  • $1.25 million for McKnight Highline to convert an empty warehouse in the Highline complex into an “East Building,” containing office spaces for nonprofits and small businesses.
  • $1 million for the University of Pittsburgh to build a structure at Hazelwood Green, housing a GMP manufacturing facility and institute, for Pitt BioForge to advance the next generation of manufacturing process innovations and to train a world-class biomanufacturing workforce.
  • $1 million for construction of the Carnegie Institute’s Pop District Live performance and event venue. An expansion of the Andy Warhol Museum, the space will feature a new, live performance and event facility, a six-square-block public art initiative and a scalable workforce development program focused on creative economy training for underserved, regional youth.
  • $1 million for Carlow University to undergo site preparation and classroom spaces measures for the renovation of the St. Agnes School.

The funds were awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, a commonwealth grant program overseen by the Office of the Budget to assist with regional cultural, economic, civic and historical projects that improve a community’s economic growth by creating jobs and opportunities.