Gainey Again Pauses Massive Oakland Crossings Development

Pittsburgh PA

08 February, 2022

1:04 PM

Description

PITTSBURGH, PA — Mayor Ed Gainey once more has delayed a zoning change necessary for a controversial project to remake a large chunk of South Oakland. Gainey on Tuesday asked for a second 30-day continuance on the zoning alteration that would permit Walnut Capital to proceed with its proposed Oakland Crossings development. He suggested in a prepared statement that he would prefer the project proceed gradually. "Long-standing issues of displacement and inequity have become more acute during this time of public health and economic crises," he said. "For that reason, it is important that we consider this zoning ordinance in a thoughtful and deliberate manner through a phased approach." Walnut Capital, which developed Bakery Square in the East End, has proposed remaking 17 acres of south Oakland. The project would involve replacing dozens of homes along the Boulevard of the Allies, McKee Place, Halkett and Bates streets and building multiple apartment buildings that would not cater to students from the nearby University of Pittsburgh. In addition to the 1,000 new apartment units, Walnut Capital is promising an elevated pedestrian bridge over the Boulevard, a new full-service grocery store and public spaces that increase community green space by 25 percent. Theproject is supported by Pitt, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and former Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, whom Gainey replaced last month. Be the first to know what's happening in your community and region. With a free Patch subscription, you'll always be up to date on local and state news: https://patch.com/subscribe.