Abney announces $29.3 million in state funding for Pittsburgh projects

Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney    July 16, 2026 | 3:27 PM

PITTSBUGH, July 16 – State Rep. Aerion Abney, D-Allegheny, today announced that more than $29.35 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants have been awarded to transformative projects throughout his Pittsburgh district, supporting neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing, economic development, education, arts and culture, and community infrastructure.

"These investments are about creating places where families can gather, businesses can grow, students can learn, and neighborhoods can thrive," Abney said. "Whether it's building more affordable housing, improving our parks, strengthening cultural institutions, or breathing new life into downtown, these projects will create jobs today while making Pittsburgh an even better place to live for years to come."

Among the funded projects are:

• 1441 Metropolitan Street Renovation – $1 million to modernize a long-standing office building with major infrastructure upgrades, creating improved workspaces for county employees while extending the life of the facility.
• Allegheny Landing (Riverlife) – $500,000 to transform the North Shore park with improved accessibility, restored riverfront habitat, new play features and infrastructure that supports year-round community events.
• Arts Landing and Public Realm (Pittsburgh Cultural Trust) – $8 million to create a signature downtown gathering space featuring a performance lawn, Pittsburgh's first downtown playground, recreational amenities, public art and beautiful native landscaping.
• Bedford Choice Linear Park (City of Pittsburgh) – $500,000 to build a new neighborhood park in the Hill District that celebrates the community's rich cultural history while creating opportunities for recreation and connection.
• Duquesne University Health Sciences Building – $1 million to help build a next-generation facility that will prepare future health care professionals through advanced classrooms, research labs and clinical training spaces.
• Grant Street Office Conversion – $3 million to convert underused office space into new housing, including affordable units, while adding street-level retail that brings more activity to downtown.
• Gulf Tower II – $4 million to continue the transformation of one of Pittsburgh's most recognizable landmarks into a vibrant mixed-use destination with housing, retail, hospitality and modern infrastructure.
• Gulf Tower III – $3.5 million to further revitalize the Gulf Tower area by adding new retail and dining options and creating a more welcoming pedestrian experience.
• Market Square Modernization (Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership) – $5 million to reimagine one of Downtown Pittsburgh's iconic public spaces with improved lighting, upgraded infrastructure, flexible event space and enhanced accessibility.
• Mattress Factory – $300,000 to improve accessibility, expand gallery and visitor spaces, and preserve one of Pittsburgh's premier contemporary art museums for future generations.
• N. Charles Street Affordable Homeownership II (Charles Street Area Corporation) – $500,000 to build six affordable homes that expand homeownership opportunities for families in the community.
• National Aviary– $500,000 to construct a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital that strengthens wildlife conservation, scientific research and education while improving care for birds from around the world.
• Pittsburgh Symphony Heinz Hall– $550,000 to preserve and modernize Heinz Hall through infrastructure improvements that enhance the experience for audiences, performers and staff.
• Pressley Ridge – $1 million to create a safer, more welcoming campus for students with complex behavioral and mental health needs by modernizing classrooms, clinical spaces and family support services.

Abney said the funding reflects the Commonwealth's continued commitment to investing in projects that strengthen communities and drive long-term economic growth.

"These projects touch every aspect of our community—from supporting families and students to expanding arts, recreation, conservation, housing and business development," Abney said. "I'm proud to have advocated for investments that will benefit residents today while positioning Pittsburgh for continued success in the years ahead."

The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program helps communities across Pennsylvania invest in transformative projects that strengthen local economies, improve public spaces, preserve cultural and historic assets, and enhance quality of life for residents.

Abney represents the 19th Legislative District, comprised of the Hill District, North Side, South Side, Allentown, Hazelwood, Downtown, The Bluff, Knoxville, Beltzhoover, Manchester, Allentown, Windgap, Chartiers, Sheraden, Elliot, and North, South and West Oakland sections of Pittsburgh.

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