Hello everyone, I’m looking forward to a productive fall now that Council has returned from recess. We will soon be entering budget season, with the Mayor’s Office and the Office of Management and Budget presenting preliminary operating and capital budgets to City Council at the end of September. Earlier this summer, I submitted more than 20 capital budget requests totaling nearly $24 million for District 1. I look forward to reviewing the preliminary budget and advocating for all the pressing needs on the Northside.
I’m happy to share that at the end of July, Council passed legislation I introduced to strengthen Pittsburgh’s parking regulations. Bill 2026-0771, removes an outdated exception in the City Code that allowed vehicles to stop or park in prohibited locations for the purpose of “protecting a vehicle.” This update provides greater clarity in the parking code and supports more consistent enforcement, helping keep sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, and other restricted areas clear, safe, and accessible. While this is an important step forward, I recognize that more work remains to ensure our streets remain safe and accessible for everyone who uses them. My office will continue working with city departments to identify additional improvements that enhance safety throughout our neighborhoods.
Short-Term Rental Regulation Bill 20260009 was briefed at the Planning Commission last month, with a hearing scheduled for Sept. 8 at 2 p.m. After the Planning Commission issues its recommendations to Council, a separate public hearing will be scheduled. As a refresher, the bill would prohibit new short-term rentals in residential zoning districts while establishing where short term rentals are permitted throughout the city. The companion licensing legislation, Bill 2026-0008, will remain on hold until the zoning bill completes this process and returns to Council. I encourage anyone interested in this issue to stay engaged and participate in the public process. For the latest information on the Planning Commission’s decision, meeting materials, and opportunities for public comment, visit: pittsburghpa.gov/Business-Development/City-Planning/Public-Notices.
The 10th Annual Garbage Olympics will take place on Sept. 19 from 9-11 a.m. with a closing ceremony at Spirit (242 51st St.) from noon to 2 p.m. featuring free food from their kitchen sponsored by the Clean Pittsburgh Commission. To learn more, register a team, or join an existing team, visit www.pghgo.org/.
Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) is holding a public comment period for its proposed Bus Line Refresh project until Sept. 30. A public hearing is scheduled for Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Heinz 57 Building, 345 Sixth Ave. This is a great opportunity to share your feedback directly with the organization as they move forward with a final proposed network. For details about the project and how to provide public comment, visit engage.rideprt.org/buslineredesign.
This month, the Department of City Planning will host five final public workshops for residents to review the draft Comprehensive Plan and share critical feedback before revisions are applied and the plan moves into the approval and adoption process. To find out more and register for a workshop, visit pgh2050.com/#welcome-join-us-and-share-your-voice-at-upcoming-events.
I’m thrilled to share that the City of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy received a 2026 Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Award from Preservation Pennsylvania for the rehabilitation of the Valley Refuge Shelter in Riverview Park. The project received a Construction Award for Rehabilitation, recognizing exemplary work to preserve Pennsylvania’s historic places while adapting them to serve communities for generations to come. The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy has been a tremendous partner for residents of the Northside, investing in projects at both Allegheny Commons and Riverview Park, and I look forward to continuing this relationship.
If you have any questions or concerns, call us at (412) 255-2135, email us at [email protected], find us on Facebook, and sign up for our newsletter (pittsburghpa.gov/City-Government/City-Council/Districts/Bobby-Wilson-District-1). My staff and I look forward to hearing from you!
