PITTSBURGH — A Pittsburgh homeowner is seeking property restoration from the city after construction crews removed several structures from his yard four years ago to stabilize a sliding road.
John Harris, husband of the late former Pittsburgh City Councilwoman Darlene Harris, claims the city promised to restore his property following the construction project.
Crews built two retaining walls on the Spring Garden property after the road above and below the home began sliding.
Darlene Harris, who served on the Pittsburgh City Council from 2006 to 2019, died earlier this year. John Harris believes political pushback regarding his late wife’s outspoken tenure on council may be stalling the resolution of his claim.
The city work required removing a pool, deck, shed, fence and steps leading down to the yard. Construction crews also damaged siding on the house. Pointing to where steps previously connected to the yard, John Harris explained that access was lost during the project.
“Yeah, right where the opening is here,” Harris said, noting that “everything was supposed to be replaced.”
Harris said he and his wife secured a written agreement with the city legal department prior to construction, outlining that all removed items would be replaced or repaired. After facing delays, Harris hired attorneys and filed a lawsuit against the city.
“It’s all in writing and signed off by their legal department,” Harris said.
The city previously offered a $24,000 settlement to resolve the property damage claims. However, Harris obtained a $63,000 estimate to fix the siding, repair landscaping and rebuild the pool, shed, fence, deck and steps. Harris turned down the city’s offer.
“No, not at all. It was a slap in the face,” Harris said.
Discussing his expectations from the city, he added, “That’s all, yeah. Not asking for much...only what’s owed.”
Harris suspects political friction contributed to the ongoing standstill, noting his late wife’s outspoken nature while serving 13 years on City Council.
“I’d say part of it’s political,” Harris said. When asked if her past actions caused the delay, he said, “Yeah, that’s how I feel.” Seeking resolution after years of inaction, Harris said, “That’s why I’m reaching out to you (11 Investigates).”
Following inquiries and documentation provided to the mayor’s office, city officials stated they are reviewing the matter. The city is currently preparing a new settlement offer.
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