Pittsburgh Review

A deal has been reached with Walnut Capital in the Oakland Crossings project that includes more clearly defined zoning and a public benefits agreement for affordable housing and food access, Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gaines said in a press release issued by his office this week. The agreement will also create 250 union construction jobs.

Gainey and his administration have been meeting with residents and other stakeholders for two months to hear their priorities for development, the press release said. This was to make sure that any development done adheres to the goals of the Oakland Neighborhood Planning process.

"From the first day we walked into office, I told my team that any development must move us forward on making Pittsburgh more equitable and affordable for everyone," Gainey said in the release. "This agreement is the first time a private developer has committed to using the Housing Authority Choice Voucher Program to reach inclusionary zoning requirements in Pittsburgh's history and will include a new grocery store that will bring much-needed options for fresh food to this neighborhood."

This will now be a phased project that is intended to leave a smaller footprint for zoning and to protect Zulema Park, the release said. It will also expand green space and require multifamily residential developments to include 10% or more rental units that are affordable for households at or below 50% of the median income for 35 years minimum. 

Gainey's priority is to make sure that "Pittsburgh remains livable for all of us," he said in the release. He also stressed creating opportunities for economic growth and equitable development.

Walnut President Todd Reidbord thanked Gainey for the opportunity to be a part of the project.

"First, they took the time to listen," Reidbord said in the release. "Then, they raised the bar higher on what's possible, motivating us to roll up our sleeves further and think bigger. We worked together to problem-solve innovative ways that ensure the community receives its long-awaited grocery store and that we can build a sustainable, affordable, inclusive mixed-use development that lifts up everyone in the community. Oakland Crossings will be a national model of how this can be done."

Councilman Bruce Kraus said the agreement shows what can happen happen when the needs of the community are focused on, adding that the deal will help Pittsburgh both grow and be inclusive.

"This public benefits agreement is the result of listening to residents, students and small businesses, and addresses their concerns around equitable growth for their neighborhood, Kraus said in the release.