People
The Hill CDC is committed to the social and economic development of Hill District residents, many of whom have been historically disadvantaged. A variety of programs are offered for business owners, entrepreneurs, aspiring homeowners, creatives and culture workers.
Place
The Hill CDC leads the planning and redevelopment efforts for the neighborhood on behalf of residents and stakeholders of the Hill District. With over $2 Billion of development slated for the area, the Hill CDC is focused on commercial revitalization and affordable homeownership. Equitable outcomes that foster place-keeping and transformative economic investment is the cornerstone of the Hill CDC’s work.
Policy
The Hill CDC is guided by the Greater Hill District Master Plan. This community-endorsed vision establishes fundamental values and development principles that are central to positive activities and healthy neighborhood development. The Hill CDC focuses on land-use policy, social and economic equity, and centering community voice.
Social
🌟On February 5, 2026, Dollar Bank hosted a Black History Month celebration at its Heritage Center in the historic Fourth Avenue Building in downtown Pittsburgh. The event brought together bank leadership, community partners, and civic leaders for an evening rooted in history and focused on the future.
The program was led by Jason Jones, Director of Community Development at Dollar Bank. Featured speakers Rob Cherry, President & CEO of Partner4Work; Juan Garrett, Executive Director of the Riverside Center for Innovation; and AJ Jefferson, President & CEO of the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, reflected on what progress and opportunity should look like 100 years from now. Their remarks linked historical memory to present-day responsibility and economic participation.
The celebration took place within Dollar Bank’s Heritage Center, which includes original ledgers, photographs, and early account records. Since opening in 1855, the bank accepted deposits as small as one dollar and maintained accounts for African American depositors when access to formal banking was often restricted. Alfred A. Gibson, who opened an account in November 1855, is recognized as the bank’s first African American depositor. Gibson and his family were connected to one of the earliest mutual aid organizations in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, the Colored United Brethren of Mutual Relief.
The program also recognized Dr. Mona Generett, who served in Dollar Bank’s Community Development Department from 1994 to 2012 and oversaw the Mortgages for Mothers program, now known as the Way Home Workshop. Her work expanded access to financial education and homeownership for women and families facing barriers to credit.
👀Read this story and more in the latest Weekend Roundup, and sign up for future editions using the link in our bio!
🌟On February 5, 2026, Dollar Bank hosted a Black History Month celebration at its Heritage Center in the historic Fourth Avenue Building in downtown Pittsburgh. The event brought together bank leadership, community partners, and civic leaders for an evening rooted in history and focused on the future.
The program was led by Jason Jones, Director of Community Development at Dollar Bank. Featured speakers Rob Cherry, President & CEO of Partner4Work; Juan Garrett, Executive Director of the Riverside Center for Innovation; and AJ Jefferson, President & CEO of the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, reflected on what progress and opportunity should look like 100 years from now. Their remarks linked historical memory to present-day responsibility and economic participation.
The celebration took place within Dollar Bank’s Heritage Center, which includes original ledgers, photographs, and early account records. Since opening in 1855, the bank accepted deposits as small as one dollar and maintained accounts for African American depositors when access to formal banking was often restricted. Alfred A. Gibson, who opened an account in November 1855, is recognized as the bank’s first African American depositor. Gibson and his family were connected to one of the earliest mutual aid organizations in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, the Colored United Brethren of Mutual Relief.
The program also recognized Dr. Mona Generett, who served in Dollar Bank’s Community Development Department from 1994 to 2012 and oversaw the Mortgages for Mothers program, now known as the Way Home Workshop. Her work expanded access to financial education and homeownership for women and families facing barriers to credit.
👀Read this story and more in the latest Weekend Roundup, and sign up for future editions using the link in our bio!
🚨 Happening NOW: Pittsburgh City Council Standing Committees Meeting!
City of Pittsburgh Standing Committees are live and reviewing legislation and spending that shapes housing, development, infrastructure, and more across the city.
This is where proposals move forward before they reach full Council.
🎥 Tune in and watch live:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaK3km7aZQk
🚨 Happening NOW: Pittsburgh City Council Standing Committees Meeting!
City of Pittsburgh Standing Committees are live and reviewing legislation and spending that shapes housing, development, infrastructure, and more across the city.
This is where proposals move forward before they reach full Council.
🎥 Tune in and watch live:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaK3km7aZQk
🏘️Join the Hill CDC and other Registered Community Organizations (RCOs) for a Development Activities Meeting on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026, at 6:00 PM, held via Zoom.
Development Activities Meetings allow community members to learn about proposed projects and provide input before applications advance to the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Art Commission, or Historic Review Commission.
Join the meeting here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83957396087#success
🏘️Join the Hill CDC and other Registered Community Organizations (RCOs) for a Development Activities Meeting on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026, at 6:00 PM, held via Zoom.
Development Activities Meetings allow community members to learn about proposed projects and provide input before applications advance to the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Art Commission, or Historic Review Commission.
Join the meeting here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83957396087#success
🏙️ At the January Development Activities Meeting, concerns were raised about how development activity will be publicly communicated by Registered Community Organizations (RCOs). City Planning staff outlined a revised process allowing organizations to state support or opposition verbally during meetings instead of submitting updated slides. While staff described the change as a simplification, the Hill CDC stressed the importance of written documentation for transparency, given the role RCOs play in representing community interests. City Planning noted that positions will be reflected in staff notes and recordings.
The main development presentation focused on a proposal from Epic Development, working with Fukuya Architects, to build three for-sale townhomes at Seneca Street and Forbes Avenue in Uptown. Developers described the privately funded project as aligned with the Uptown Eco-Innovation District, citing transit access, density, and sustainability goals.
Attendees questioned how that alignment is measured, particularly as market-rate housing continues to outpace affordable housing in Uptown. Questions focused on pricing, ownership, and use of local and MWBE contractors, with concerns about reviewing projects individually rather than cumulative neighborhood impacts. RCOs expressed support for additional homeownership opportunities. Note: The Hill CDC does not formally endorse projects that have not completed the Development Review Panel (DRP). This project has not been submitted to the DRP.
The meeting also included an update from City Planning on the Hill District Greenways initiative, which would designate some City-owned vacant parcels as permanent open space. Areas near the Bigelow Greenway, Herron Hill Park, and the MLK Field and Kennard Park corridor were cited. Residents and RCOs asked how decisions will be made and who will maintain these spaces given existing challenges.
Watch the meeting here: https://ow.ly/ME8x50Y9Byz
👀Read this story and more in the latest Weekend Roundup: https://ow.ly/Jprz50Y9ByE
📝Sign up for the Weekend Roundup here: https://ow.ly/EKfv50Y9ByC
🏙️ At the January Development Activities Meeting, concerns were raised about how development activity will be publicly communicated by Registered Community Organizations (RCOs). City Planning staff outlined a revised process allowing organizations to state support or opposition verbally during meetings instead of submitting updated slides. While staff described the change as a simplification, the Hill CDC stressed the importance of written documentation for transparency, given the role RCOs play in representing community interests. City Planning noted that positions will be reflected in staff notes and recordings.
The main development presentation focused on a proposal from Epic Development, working with Fukuya Architects, to build three for-sale townhomes at Seneca Street and Forbes Avenue in Uptown. Developers described the privately funded project as aligned with the Uptown Eco-Innovation District, citing transit access, density, and sustainability goals.
Attendees questioned how that alignment is measured, particularly as market-rate housing continues to outpace affordable housing in Uptown. Questions focused on pricing, ownership, and use of local and MWBE contractors, with concerns about reviewing projects individually rather than cumulative neighborhood impacts. RCOs expressed support for additional homeownership opportunities. Note: The Hill CDC does not formally endorse projects that have not completed the Development Review Panel (DRP). This project has not been submitted to the DRP.
The meeting also included an update from City Planning on the Hill District Greenways initiative, which would designate some City-owned vacant parcels as permanent open space. Areas near the Bigelow Greenway, Herron Hill Park, and the MLK Field and Kennard Park corridor were cited. Residents and RCOs asked how decisions will be made and who will maintain these spaces given existing challenges.
Watch the meeting here: https://ow.ly/ME8x50Y9Byz
👀Read this story and more in the latest Weekend Roundup: https://ow.ly/Jprz50Y9ByE
📝Sign up for the Weekend Roundup here: https://ow.ly/EKfv50Y9ByC
🏘️The City of Pittsburgh is currently undertaking a planning process focused on vacant and abandoned structures, with initial attention centered on the Hill District. This work is being carried out through the City’s Vacant Structure Stabilization and Reuse Strategy, which examines how vacant structures are identified, evaluated, and addressed.
According to the City, the strategy prioritizes stabilization and reuse as interim approaches to slow deterioration and preserve future options, rather than relying solely on demolition. The Hill District is serving as a pilot area, meaning lessons learned here may inform similar efforts citywide.
This City-led effort builds on years of community-based planning and analysis related to vacant land and buildings in the Hill District. Community organizations, residents, and institutions have long documented vacancy conditions and articulated priorities around stabilization, reuse, affordability, and preservation.
As this planning process moves forward, structure, alignment with existing plans, and well-designed engagement are essential. Community members can follow the process and upcoming engagement opportunities by following the Hill CDC, and/or by giving input directly to the City through their EngagePGH site by clicking below.
👀Read this story and more in the latest Weekend Roundup: https://us18.campaign-archive.com/?u=0227e7478f00c6333e6239cde&id=2f6f54d389
📝Sign up for the Weekend Roundup here: hilldistrict.org/signup
🏘️The City of Pittsburgh is currently undertaking a planning process focused on vacant and abandoned structures, with initial attention centered on the Hill District. This work is being carried out through the City’s Vacant Structure Stabilization and Reuse Strategy, which examines how vacant structures are identified, evaluated, and addressed.
According to the City, the strategy prioritizes stabilization and reuse as interim approaches to slow deterioration and preserve future options, rather than relying solely on demolition. The Hill District is serving as a pilot area, meaning lessons learned here may inform similar efforts citywide.
This City-led effort builds on years of community-based planning and analysis related to vacant land and buildings in the Hill District. Community organizations, residents, and institutions have long documented vacancy conditions and articulated priorities around stabilization, reuse, affordability, and preservation.
As this planning process moves forward, structure, alignment with existing plans, and well-designed engagement are essential. Community members can follow the process and upcoming engagement opportunities by following the Hill CDC, and/or by giving input directly to the City through their EngagePGH site by clicking below.
👀Read this story and more in the latest Weekend Roundup: https://us18.campaign-archive.com/?u=0227e7478f00c6333e6239cde&id=2f6f54d389
📝Sign up for the Weekend Roundup here: hilldistrict.org/signup
🥕🍎Don`t miss the next Free Food Distribution!
Free food for community members on Friday, February 13th starting at 11 AM!
First come, first served until food runs out!
📍2145 Centre Avenue - Nafasi on Centre
🛍️ Bring a tote or reusable bag
⏰ Come early and tell a neighbor!
🥕🍎Don`t miss the next Free Food Distribution!
Free food for community members on Friday, February 13th starting at 11 AM!
First come, first served until food runs out!
📍2145 Centre Avenue - Nafasi on Centre
🛍️ Bring a tote or reusable bag
⏰ Come early and tell a neighbor!
🚨 Happening tomorrow! 🚨
Tune in to watch Governor Josh Shapiro deliver the 2026–2027 Pennsylvania Budget Address to a joint session of the General Assembly at 11:45 am. The address will outline proposed investments that affect communities across the Commonwealth.
▶️ Watch live on PCN-TV: https://pcnselect.com/landing.php?j=landing_pabudget2627&b=pol
💬 Later that afternoon, the Pennsylvania Policy Center will host a virtual rapid response roundtable breaking down the Governor’s proposal and what it means for Pennsylvanians statewide.
▶️ Register to watch the discussion: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/fpQxDOpwSZWrbYDLxH90bg
💰If state funding priorities matter to you, watching is worth your time!
🚨 Happening tomorrow! 🚨
Tune in to watch Governor Josh Shapiro deliver the 2026–2027 Pennsylvania Budget Address to a joint session of the General Assembly at 11:45 am. The address will outline proposed investments that affect communities across the Commonwealth.
▶️ Watch live on PCN-TV: https://pcnselect.com/landing.php?j=landing_pabudget2627&b=pol
💬 Later that afternoon, the Pennsylvania Policy Center will host a virtual rapid response roundtable breaking down the Governor’s proposal and what it means for Pennsylvanians statewide.
▶️ Register to watch the discussion: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/fpQxDOpwSZWrbYDLxH90bg
💰If state funding priorities matter to you, watching is worth your time!
📬 Missed the Weekend Roundup? Catch up here.
🏘️ City advances planning for vacant structures in the Hill
A new stabilization strategy moves forward as the City lays groundwork for a pilot program focused on long-neglected properties.
🏗️ Hill District development meeting takes on townhouses and greenways
Residents and organizations dig into a proposed three-unit townhouse project and ongoing conversations around the Hill District Greenways.
📰 Press freedom groups condemn arrests of two journalists
Advocacy organizations respond after the arrests of Don Lemon and Georgia Fort, calling the move a serious threat to First Amendment protections.
🏛️ Tuesday watch: Gov. Shapiro’s State Budget Address
The Governor delivers his budget address, followed by a Penn Policy Center response breaking down what it could mean for communities across Pennsylvania.
Read the full Weekend Roundup: https://ow.ly/spj750Y7A5I
Sign up to get future editions here: https://ow.ly/Ub9r50Y7A5H
📬 Missed the Weekend Roundup? Catch up here.
🏘️ City advances planning for vacant structures in the Hill
A new stabilization strategy moves forward as the City lays groundwork for a pilot program focused on long-neglected properties.
🏗️ Hill District development meeting takes on townhouses and greenways
Residents and organizations dig into a proposed three-unit townhouse project and ongoing conversations around the Hill District Greenways.
📰 Press freedom groups condemn arrests of two journalists
Advocacy organizations respond after the arrests of Don Lemon and Georgia Fort, calling the move a serious threat to First Amendment protections.
🏛️ Tuesday watch: Gov. Shapiro’s State Budget Address
The Governor delivers his budget address, followed by a Penn Policy Center response breaking down what it could mean for communities across Pennsylvania.
Read the full Weekend Roundup: https://ow.ly/spj750Y7A5I
Sign up to get future editions here: https://ow.ly/Ub9r50Y7A5H
News
Events
February 12, 2026 @ 10:00 am
Small Business Hours with the University of Pittsburgh Institute for Entreprenurial Excellence
February 19, 2026 @ 10:00 am
