Community calling for affordable housing next to new Market District in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — It’s the same thought from multiple people across East Liberty and Shadyside.

“They knocked down apartments in this area and they don’t rebuild them for the community and senior citizens,” said Bloomfield resident Daniel Goetz.

But a new development just approved by the city will bring just that. In the space of the old Giant Eagle, a brand-new Market District will be built with another building next door with street retail and five floors of apartments above.

“I think it would be important if it was affordable housing. I don’t know how much those apartments are going to cost, but I think it’s good to provide affordable housing in the neighborhood,” said Emily Jones.

The developer has pledged that 15% of the dwellings will be considered affordable. That’s only about 35 of the 231 units.

“No, no — it should be 50-50; you want to do something, do it right. Give the poor people like myself a chance to come up and live there,” said Silas Jennings.

More affordability was a concern for some members of the Planning Commission, but there were no requirements to provide any affordability for this development.

The developers do at least plan to make sure there are safety features when it comes to the bus stops and access to the project.

“I hope it’s not all parking, but pedestrian-friendly on the street front as well,” Jones said.

There will also be a parking garage to accommodate all the shoppers, construction on which should begin in the New Year. The developers hope the project will be done and open by the end of 2024.

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