The Voice A publication of the Polish Hill Civic Association

We are the community … we are one voice!

3060 Brereton Street ☼ , PA 15219 ☼ (412) 681-1950 ☼ [email protected] ☼ www.phcapgh.org

November Work begins on implementing 2012 community plan goals and partly in Lawrenceville. This project is Contents important because of its size, proximity to the bus line and potential for a large-scale devel- PHCA Updates 2 opment that would impact Polish Hill resi- dents and their quality of life. 3 News and When projects involve property owned by Announcements others, the PHCA's role is to act as an advo- cate for residents, and help ensure that the principles and guideposts from our commu- More News and 4 nity plan are represented during the public- Announcements input process. While the organization can't After the Polish Hill Community Plan dictate what happens at sites we don't control, was completed in November 2011, the next we can have a say in, and some influence over, step was to identify which projects should be Iron City Brewery the type of development that occurs. Many of tackled first. Several meetings were held in Site Development 5 these initiatives are ongoing and will unfold early 2012 to help create an implementation over several years. Some involve adjacent matrix -- a spreadsheet quantifying short- neighborhoods while others include multiple and long-term goals, ranking level of diffi- Traces of Previous 6 partnerships and citywide or even regional culty and cross-referencing project overlap. Occupants planning. We are fortunate to be armed with Creating this matrix, an essential component our own community plan, which brings of a community plan, would help identify strength to our collective voice. Traces, continued 7 which projects were the highest priority. The community plan contains many worthy goals, Green space restoration ranging from longer-term projects involving funding and partnerships, to smaller initia- Starting the Development tives that can be done on our own or solved Process for the Polish Hill Community 8 by teaming up with local officials. Brereton Street Fire Site

Plan reaches citywide By Alexis Miller strategy In June of this year, the new PHCA leadership began moving ahead on the items identified On Nov. 7, 2007, a fire that started at 3109 as priorities. Near-term efforts include traffic Brereton destroyed three homes. What be- Traffic Updates 9 calming, where we already have been able to gan as a neighborhood tragedy will soon be- claim a few small victories, and come an opportunity. expanding our volunteer base -- something we continue to do. The Polish Hill Civic Association has been Mineral Extraction 10 Legislation working with Pittsburgh Housing Develop- The long-term projects that combine a num- ment Corporation (PHDC) and its parent ber of goals connect to locations in which new organization, the Urban Redevelopment development or redevelopment of existing Authority (URA) to secure this and several Membership 11 buildings could occur. One such project is the surrounding properties for future develop- Application and Brereton-Dobson Fire Site, where a 2007 ment. Other partners over the past five years PHCA items for sale blaze claimed three buildings near the sym- have included the Design Center (formerly bolic center of our neighborhood. Another CDCP), Tai + Lee Architects, PHCA housing longer term goal is to help facilitate the even- committee members and board directors. The Voice is a quarterly tual redevelopment of the Immaculate Heart The Brereton-Dobson Fire Site Project in- published in February, of Mary School, which is now privately owned cludes three parcels with two vacant lots and May, August and and sitting empty. And we’re participating in November. four houses that front Brereton and Dobson the community-input phase of the Iron City streets. Although much of the work on the Brewery site, which sits partly in Polish Hill Continued on page 8 Page 2 Polish Hill Voice From the PHCA Again this year: P-Rogue™ holiday cards President’s Message Redstone Candies Fundraiser to benefit the PHCA Twice a year, Polish Hill resident This fall, the PHCA is seeing a lot more Julia Sinicki coordinates a Redstone change than just the leaves. Allow me to Candies fundraiser on behalf of the share some of our laundry list with you: PHCA. Product lists and order forms are now available at the PHCA office; We're getting ready to vote on the largest orders are due with payment by No- revision to the PHCA bylaws in over a vember 16. To see the full Christmas decade, which will ensure that the by- selection in full color, log onto the laws reflect the current and future state Redstone Candies website (http:// of the organization, residents and mem- www.redstonecandies.com). bership. We're working with Pittsburgh Housing Development Corporation on The three holiday plans for new development on three par- card designs by Recommendations artist Myra Falisz. cels near the intersection of Brereton submitted for revisions Each card carries and Dobson streets, one of the biggest the traditional changes to our housing landscape in to PHCA bylaws greeting of nearly a decade. Sto Lat, for 100 A bylaws committee began meeting years of health We worked with multiple City officials in June 2012 to discuss revisions to the and happiness. and departments to see some of the most PHCA bylaws to make them more clear improvements by the City to our cross- and applicable to how the organization currently operates. The committee is walks, traffic signage and stop signs in This year the PHCA will again offer composed of Janice Heagy (board many years. We hosted a near record holiday cards by Polish Hill artist Myra number of volunteers to clean up our member and committee chair), Alexis Miller (PHCA president), Josiah Park- Falisz, featuring her pierogi characters, streets, city steps, hillsides, public gar- known as P-Rogues™. One design fea- dens and lots. inson (board member), Tom Ogden (board member) and John Rhoades tures a red sleigh with a pierogi couple moving through a snowy landscape; We marched in the Hallow- (subscription member). The committee also received assistance from the another shows a dancing pierogi girl een Parade for the first time. We're wearing a colorful Polish costume. The about to start working with web design- Community Technical Assistance Center. third design sports a festive P-Rogue ers on an exciting new website for our couple coasting downhill on a red tan- organization. We voiced our thoughts The committee presented the proposed dem bike. All cards include the phrase and concerns about major plans and of celebration, Sto Lat, wishing you 100 development in the Strip District and bylaw revisions at the membership years of great joy and good cheer. former Iron City Brewery. meeting on October 2. Copies of the

changes were also available at the Pricing: six cards for $15 (plus $2.50 We reopened communication with the PHCA office and on our website. shipping); payable by cash or check. owner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Voting on the revisions took place at Choose whether you prefer all six of School, and have been meeting with peo- the membership meeting on Wednes- ple to help find an interested third-party one design, or a mixed set with two of day, November 7, 2012. Members who developer as well as requesting assis- each. Cards also are sold individually were paid for calendar year 2012 and tance from the Mayor's Office for ways for $3.50. For more information, present at the November membership to clean up the exterior of the site. We email [email protected], or call us at meeting were eligible to vote on the have hired a real estate and community 412.681.1950. Cards can be purchased bylaw amendments. Members are also development consultant to help us at the PHCA office, 3060 Brereton St., welcome to make motions for other strategize and fundraise for these pro- Pittsburgh, PA 15219, Tuesday through changes to the bylaws. If the member- Saturday, 10:00 a.m. until 6 p.m. jects, and other renovation and facade initiated revisions need more discus- improvements in the neighborhood. Proceeds from selling the cards will sion or research, they will be voted on help support community projects. at a future membership meeting and As the winter chill sets in, we'll still be treated as a separate amendment. busy, so stop by, drop us a line, give us a Want to continue ring or come to a community meeting The bylaws are a living document and and find out how you can help be a can be revised at any time as long as the receiving the Voice? change-maker too. revision is approved by the PHCA

membership. Moving forward, it is the Use the form on page 11 Alexis Miller intention of the PHCA to review the to renew for 2013! bylaws annually. Polish Hill Voice Page 3 News and Announcements New owners for PHCA receives One Young World Delegates donations on the get a warm welcome Lili Cafe Pittsburgh Day of Giving in Polish Hill

October 3 was a special day for the PHCA and hundreds of other area non- profits -- it was the Pittsburgh Gives 2012 Day of Giving. The Day of Giving is an annual event presented by the Pittsburgh Foundation. It features one day in which donations made to eligi- ble nonprofits are increased by a per- centage of matching funds. During the event, more than 20 people donated to Photo by Leslie Clague the Polish Hill Civic Association. Sup- porters rallied both nearby and far On October 20, 2012, Polish Hill par- Photo by Leslie Clague away -- from our own backyard to ticipated in a unique and inspiring event Maryland, California and even Hawaii. Lili Cafe now has new owners: Heidi that brought over 1,000 young leaders Tucker and Mark Clowney bought the The October 11 announcement from from all over the world into over 100 business from Rob Levkulich, who homes and communities in Pittsburgh. opened Polish Hill’s first coffee shop in the Pittsburgh Foundation confirmed that the amount of matching funds for These leaders were in Pittsburgh for the June 2010 and named it after his young third annual One Young World Sum- daughter. Heidi and Mark have re- nonprofits in Allegheny County will be 10.5 cents for every dollar received. mit. Home dinners, coordinated by the painted and made a few changes to the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, were decor, but the name will remain, and it’s We value the opportunity to be part of a special way to welcome them and intro- still the same friendly, welcoming place. duce them to Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh- the event and are delighted by the number of supporters. Many thanks to ers. Polish Hill Civic Association Presi- Heidi has been a familiar face behind the dent Alexis Miller and owner of Lili Cafe, counter for most of Lili's existence, and all the donors and to the Pittsburgh Foundation for spearheading the Day Heidi Tucker, hosted a potluck dinner in she's devised some of the most-loved Lili Cafe that was attended by over 30 dishes at the coffee shop. She has also of Giving, which raised more than $8.4 million dollars for hundreds of Polish Hill residents and friends. organized art shows and special dinners featuring guest cooks. Heidi and Mark participating nonprofits from Alle- gheny and Westmoreland counties. The conversations were as warm and plan to continue with new ideas and wonderful as the food that everyone events to help make Lili even more of a brought. The enthusiasm and interest neighborhood asset. that the four One Young World delegates Become a member or renew from Boston, London, The Netherlands We wish Rob good luck in his future your membership and India had about Polish Hill, Pitts- endeavors, which include renovating his burgh and the PHCA was undeni- house on Revere Street. And we welcome If you haven't renewed your member- able. Likewise, the neighborhood's inter- Heidi and Mark in their new roles as est in and friendliness towards these four neighborhood entrepreneurs. It’s good ship for 2013, this is the time to do it! A wonderful benefit of becoming a visitors was overwhelming. Everyone left to know that a beloved neighborhood that evening with big smiles and we all establishment is in good hands. member of the PHCA is that you can visit the Heinz History Center free of waved to their departing bus until they charge. All you have to do is let the were out of sight. front desk staff know that you are a BLOGSKI member of a Heinz History Center Myra Falisz and Alexis Miller were lucky Affiliate, and show them your PHCA enough to see them again on Sun- With new postings and pictures membership card. day. Tom Ogden contacted us earlier that each week, Blogski is the most day, offering to sponsor destination gifts up-to-date source of news The museum is kind enough to extend for our guests. We drove Downtown on and information for this courtesy to the PHCA as an affili- Sunday night and met the four of them in residents and friends of Polish Hill. ate, and we are very happy to be able to the lobby of their hotel to give them each offer this wonderful benefit to our a special Polish Hill memento -- Pierogi Just type in this address: members. Don't miss the fourth floor, moon over Polish Hill t-shirts (designed where they have a large photo-mural by Myra)! They were so touched by the blogski.phcapgh.org showing a view of Polish Hill. gesture that several of them planned to put the shirts on right away. They also Continued on page 4 Page 4 Polish Hill Voice

More News and Announcements Helping to control the stray Continued from previous page Francis from Mt. Assisi Convent in cat population: please Bellevue (North Hills), PA. spay or neuter your cat couldn't stop thanking us for such a wonderful experience and telling us that The facility supplies an important re- Polish Hill resident Judy Vertullo the dinner was one of the best parts of source for seniors. Older Polish Hill and some of her neighbors on Dobson their five days in Pittsburgh. As a token residents who no longer wish to have Street are concerned cat lovers who try of their appreciation, they gave us a the burden of maintaining a home can to take care of the stray and feral cats copy of the book "Interventions" that still stay in the neighborhood. The facil- that live nearby. This population of had been give to them by the closing ity also is home to many people who stray cats keeps growing, due in part to speaker, former United Nations secre- came to Polish Hill from elsewhere. unspayed male cats -- not strays, but tary-general Kofi Annan. Inside the On warm days, residents sit outside on cats whose owners allow them to roam. book, they wrote the following message: the terrace to chat and visit. Judy has asked us to remind residents not to let their cats wander around the Dear Polish Hill Community, A celebration was held on October 21 to neighborhood if they're not spayed or Thank you for your warm hospitality and commemorate the 30th anniversary of neutered. Judy says the un-neutered touching our lives. John Paul Plaza. A special Mass of domestic male cats are fathering a lot of It is a night we will always remember! Thanksgiving was celebrated on October kittens. Sadly, these kittens are born We hope your community prospers and that 21 by Rev. Joseph Swierczynski at outside and don't live long. our paths cross again in the near future. Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Kindest Regards, Church on Brereton Avenue. Following It's the responsible thing to make sure Charles, Megan, Karan and Louise the Mass there was a catered dinner for your cat doesn't help make more cats --

Plaza tenants and invited guests. To and cost is not an excuse to not spay or In return, we wish them all the best and highlight the occasion, Johnny Angel neuter your pets. The City of Pittsburgh thank everyone who attended and and the Halos performed a concert. Animal Control has a free spay-neuter helped make this evening so energizing program and they'll take up to five ani- and dynamic! The PHCA would like to offer congratu- mals from each family. For an applica- lations to the staff, management and tion, call 412.255.2036. residents of John Paul Plaza on the oc- John Paul Plaza celebrates casion of this anniversary, and wish Event Calendar its 30th Anniversary them many more successful years to Nov/Dec/Jan come.

Nov 7| Monthly Community Polish Hill represented in the Meeting Bloomfield Halloween parade 6:30 p.m. | West Penn Recreation Center (Senior Center, lower level)

Nov 14 | Council-to-Go with Councilman Patrick Dowd 7:00 p.m. | PHCA office, 3060 Brereton St. Photo by Carl Bergamini Dec 4 | Monthly Community At the intersection of Herron Avenue Meeting and Holiday Potluck and Hancock Street, near the top of Bre- Dinner reton, is Polish Hill's only high-rise Photo by Mark Knobil 6:30 p.m. | West Penn Recreation Center building: John Paul Plaza, a 70-unit, (Senior Center, lower level) affordable senior-living facility for those The PHCA was proud to participate on fixed or limited incomes. in the Bloomfield Halloween parade -- Dec 7 | Light up the Street Night a first for any neighborhood organiza- 6:30 p.m. | Intersection of Brereton and Named for Pope John Paul ll, the first tion, according to Janet Scullion of the Dobson streets and at the PHCA office Polish pope, John Paul Plaza was built Bloomfield Citizens Council. PHCA in 1982 under the direction of Rev. John board members marched to the music Jan 9 | Council-to-Go M. Jendzura, C.S.Sp., former Pastor of of Lungs Face Feet and the May Day Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, and with Councilman Patrick Dowd Marching Band. The musicians also 7:00 p.m. | PHCA office Sister M. Coleman Conroy, OSF, the brought along some dancers and jug- Executive Director of Christian Hous- 3060 Brereton St. glers. The PHCA was happy to part of ing, Inc., and Sister Veronica, OSF. Pittsburgh's only remaining nighttime Presently, the Plaza is under Housing Feb 5 | Monthly Community Management Services, and Sister Eileen parade, which organizers say drew a Meeting Magill, OSF, is the Executive Director. record crowd this year. We look for- 6:30 p.m. | West Penn Recreation Center The Property Manager at John Paul ward to bringing even more musicians (Senior Center, lower level) Plaza is Sister Lorita Kristufek, OSF, a and performers to next year's parade! member of the School Sisters of St. Polish Hill Voice Page 5

Iron City Brewery development public meetings highlight differing visions for the “highest and best use” of a historic site

By Leslie Clague

As we go to press, the master planning process for the Iron City Brewery site which began this spring, is still under way. A steering committee, made up of nearby community stakeholders includ- ing PHCA President Alexis Miller and District 7 Councilman Patrick Dowd, has been meeting with DLA+ Architecture and Interior Design, the firm hired to help create the master plan. Collier Development, the property owner, and Lawrenceville Corporation, led by Execu- tive Director Matt Galluzzo, pledged to secure both private and publicly sourced funds for the master plan. Matt Galluzzo is also leading the steering committee and its process of gathering public input during the planning. The Iron City Brewery site as seen from location of the site makes the clash of October 16 was the second public en- Polish Hill. The large 1890s brick struc- visions almost inevitable -- it borders gagement session for the Iron City Brew- tures marked with Xs in the photo might be four neighborhoods, is surrounded by demolished as part of the development. residential streets, and conveniently ery site planning. At this meeting, DLA+ (Photo by Leslie Clague) presented different possibilities for located near the busway and downtown. developing the site. The meeting was proved vehicle access from Liberty Ave- attended by more than 40 people, includ- nue as well as multiple pedestrian paths. In particular, Lawrenceville and Polish ing several PHCA board members and The development would feature office Hill are seeing property values increase Polish Hill residents. space, possibly some apartments and partly due to the scale and historic feel of perhaps a hotel (the developer has al- their communities. For stakeholders The most drastic of the development op- ready been contacted by a national hotel from these neighborhoods, the need for a tions would involve demolition of 50 per- chain interested in the site). There likely sensitive, preservation-focused develop- cent of the buildings on the site. These would be some retail and restaurants, ment of the Iron City Brewery site seems include very large metal-frame storage and possibly other amenities. It was also clear. Yet a number of times during the buildings from the 1980s and brick struc- mentioned that for a development of this second community meeting, the pre- tures from the 1930s and 40s. Also being size, 800 – 900 parking spaces would be senter made a point of saying that while considered for demolition are two 1890s required, composed of both surface public input can inform or influence the structures from the largest block of parking and a new parking garage. process, it won’t dictate what the devel- buildings on the site, which are probably oper ultimately will do. But that doesn’t the most visible structures as viewed Most of the attendees at the Iron City mean speaking up is futile. from Polish Hill. DLA+ told meeting Brewery meeting indicated that they val- attendees that structural engineers have ued the historic character of the site as a We urge all Polish Hill residents to stated that the buildings are not safe. whole, and many felt that preservation acquaint themselves with the progress of This doesn't mean that the buildings can- of all brick structures (if not the large this development and weigh in with your not be saved, only that it would be very 1980s warehouses) was of great impor- comments now. Carol Peterson, a mem- expensive to do so. The structural prob- tance. The meeting ran over the sched- ber of the nonprofit advocacy group lems may have been worsened by the uled time due to a spirited discussion, Lawrenceville Stakeholders, has been tons of rubble piled up against them from becoming heated at points, about the closely involved in the site from the be- a 1980s building that was demolished a historic value of the site. The debate ginning. She states, "Although [Collier couple of years ago. focused mainly on the value of spending Development] bought the property aware millions to save and repurpose old build- of the prohibition against demolishing its The Iron City Brewery site is large, ex- ings vs. replacing them with new build- buildings, I think they have use for a cou- tending along Sassafras Street in the val- ings. Some presenters became impatient ple of the buildings at most, and commu- ley under the Bloomfield Bridge. What- at what they perceived as an overwhelm- nity folks are the only thing that makes ever development happens here will be a ing concern for preservation over the them think of demolition penalties as big project. The site is zoned urban in- “highest and best use” of the site. The anything more troublesome than a park- dustrial, which gives leeway to the devel- definition of “highest and best use” var- ing ticket." oper. All plans presented include im- ied according to who was speaking. The Continued on page 8 Page 6 Polish Hill Voice Traces of Previous Occupants

By Leslie Clague Tom Ogden, who lives on Melwood Ave- nue, found numerous empty whiskey A lot of people who have purchased bottles stashed in the rafters of the laun- and are renovating houses in Polish dry room. He kept one, with the brand Hill have mentioned finding interest- "Chickencock Whiskey" and the picture ing things in the process. It seems of a rooster on the label. With the impli- there are still a lot of washboards in cations of empty whiskey bottles in mind, basements; that many housewives Tom wondered, "Maybe this is not the plugged holes with rags, or lined cabi- story you were looking for?" nets with old newspaper; that every man kept a can of nails and screws, Left: A patch and perhaps a bottle of whiskey. Harry Harenski’s Last over the hole Supper relief, and

from a missing everyday items of In the course of renovating my house, baluster; a tiny yesteryear: Glover’s there have been many of these small brass animal Hair Application discoveries: a tiny brass toy animal (with a bottle Mange Medicine, and tucked behind a baseboard, perhaps cap, for scale). an elegantly labeled intentionally -- to hide it from an box of suppositories. Right: Chicken- acquisitive younger sibling? The cock whiskey (Photos by Marc Rettig) tools left behind in the basement -- bottle that Tom were they no longer useful? And the found tucked in way a hole from a missing baluster the basement was carefully patched -- other balus- rafters. ters were replaced; why not that one? (Photos by Leslie Clague)

Marc Rettig, of Bethoven Street, said that the previous owners of his house dili- gently removed everything, but there are a few pieces from the owner before them, Harry Harenski. Harry was a well-known work on the house. Harry played basket- fixture in Polish Hill, living in the same ball for the Immaculate Heart of Mary house from sometime in the 1940s until church team in 1915! He fought in World selling it in 1999. Harry was over 100 War I. He worked as a machinist, coming years old at the time, and when he sold back to this house each day. There's the house he made Denny and Cheryl something sentimental and lovely about (who sold the house to Marc) make two these details, and these small items found promises. First, if and when they sold the in the house help make those stories con- house, they must sell it to someone who crete." wanted to live in the neighborhood. And second, that Harry's relief of the Last Alida Baker's house on Paulowna Street Supper must stay with the house. was previously occupied by a priest. Like the many layers of wallpaper, in Naturally, there were lots of religious floral patterns of different eras, each Marc says, "There's still a little construc- objects, such as ornate gold plastic frames discovery suggested a story. I be- tion dust on it. Sorry, Harry. When my with pictures of the crucifixion and ornate came aware of the stream of people renovation is complete I'll find a place of gold metal switch plates. She says that who had passed through the house. honor for the Last Supper." there were also a lot of cup hooks, all over

the house, probably to string clotheslines I asked other Polish Hill homeown- Marc also found a galvanized metal dairy to dry laundry. ers what traces of previous occupants delivery box, "Property of Menzie Dairy," they had found. The responses were and a small metal toolbox containing More mysterious to the new owner were intriguing, oddly personal, and shoeshine materials. Oh, and a box of some chalk markings over the doorways. sometimes cryptic. The contents of suppositories, and a medicine bottle. Following renovation work, three of them our homes show the paths of our eve- remain. One is over the door leading ryday, most private existence. Most Marc's house has not had many owners, down to the basement and that reads of us never imagine that others will and he says, "The fact that Harry lived "20+K+M+B-10." There are two more see these details, but something is there so long gives the place a sense of over doors in the basement; both read always left behind, no matter how history I definitely feel as I live in and "20+K+M+B+08." Long time Polish resi- thorough the cleaning. Polish Hill Voice Page 7

stop was a male police officer. Of the knotweed and grape vine have estab- drivers who came through the stop lished a strong hold there. With the sign in a 47-minute period, 52 were help of a Sprout Fund grant, and men and 38 were women. countless hours from volunteers, we have been able to decrease the tenacity Although this was a small, one-time of certain plants growing there by study, it supports what residents and means of physical extraction. No the PHCA have been telling the City: chemicals have been used on the site, stop signs are not enough to slow and we are trying various methods to down speeding drivers; more is keep it that way. needed. We will continue to work with officials to find ways to make One method of controlling knotweed is Polish Hill safer for pedestrians and to create an environment that is inhos- cyclists. pitable to its growth. This can be done Chalk markings over the doorways in Alida by creating a healthy tree canopy to Baker’s house. (Photos by Alida Baker) Restoration of native shade out the plant. Armed with this knowledge, I contacted Tree Pittsburgh dents might recognize the marks as the trees to help reclaim and asked for their help on restoring Twelfth Night blessing from the central Melwood Avenue the area with trees that are best suited European tradition. Each year during the to the former tot lot site. Feast of the Three Kings, the occupant green space would have taken blessed chalk and in- It may seem counterintuitive to remove By Valerie Testa scribed numbers representing the date trees to create a canopy of tree cover- and the initials of the Magi, separated by age. One of the many factors in mak- crosses, above doorways in his house. ing this decision is the current tree stock growing at the site. Some of When we move on, these houses will them are just as invasive as knotweed. probably remain and shelter others. Some There are several mulberries, a couple future resident will find that small object of silver maples, and several Ailanthus we lost or notice an idiosyncratic repair. altissima (Tree of Heaven). With care- Perhaps, like so many of the people I ful planning and the support of spoke with, those who come after us will neighbors, several of these trees have been marked for removal by the city’s look at these traces of our existance and PHCA photo be charmed and fascinated. Perhaps they forestry department. will choose to preserve some of these There’s a lot of green space in Polish Ailanthus, mulberry, knotweed and small details, in remembrance of those Hill. We aren’t in the middle of a for- wild grapevine share a common thread. who lived there before. est or anything, but there are enough They like to grow in urban spaces that patches of lovely shades of green to have been cleared of its original remind us that we are lucky to have so growth. While this can be looked at as much urban open space. a way of the land reclaiming itself, I

Traffic study, continued from page 9 choose to look at it as an opportunity Some of this space is on surfaces that to take the land back to its original otherwise aren’t suitable for construc- The point of the study was to test the state of varied trees and shrubs. tion or landscaping -- like my giant cliff hypothesis that men are more likely than of a back yard or the hillside that leads women to run stop signs. Anjelica chose We’ll be planting approximately 20 down to the East Busway. On the other the intersection of Dobson and Hancock seedling trees at the site on November hand, we have several sites that because she felt it would be the most con- 27. If you’d like to participate in the neighbors help maintain for everyone venient place to observe traffic because planting or would like to learn more to enjoy. A few that come to mind are the outdoor seating at Lili Cafe offers a about the upkeep of the site until the Maly Park, the Melwood parklett, and perfect view of the intersection. trees get established, please contact more recently, the parklett at the cor- me. The success of this restoration ner of Brereton and Hancock. These She observed the stop sign for a total of 47 project and the possibility of doing spaces are established and open for us minutes. Out of the 90 motorists who similar projects around the neighbor- to enjoy. arrived at the stop sign during that time hood will be a learning experience for period, 20 of them came to a complete everyone involved. If you’re interested Over the past few years, we’ve been stop. Of those 20, 11 were female and in participating, or learning more trying to get another area of the nine were male. This means that 70 mo- about this project, please email neighborhood uncovered from a blan- torists did not come to a complete stop. [email protected] or call ket of invasive species. The site is lo- Of those 70, 27 were female and 43 were 412.537.2752. male. Anjelica noted that one of the mo- cated under the Melwood Bridge, and torists who did not come to a complete until the 70s, was a tot lot for the neighborhood kids. Over the years, Page 8 Polish Hill Voice

Fire site development, continued operative/co-housing, green space and scenically towards downtown, while project may not be evident right now, innovative mixed-use development. enjoying the vistas of Frank Curto Park there will soon be visible activity and What are your ideas? Stay in touch with and the City skyline along the way. The multiple opportunities for community us as this development grows. passionate lobbying brought initial re- engagement. sults. Bigelow Boulevard, envisioned as a complete street accommodating bikes During the creation of the recent How our community plan and pedestrians, made the slideshow of Polish Hill Community Plan, the site reaches citywide strategy re-imagined possibilities at Wednesday was identified as a high priority and a evening’s presentation. creative opportunity for innovative, by Myra Falisz sustainable mixed-use development in Most importantly, the PHCA formed an the center of our most historic and Several PHCA board members repre- alliance with Patrick Roberts, the princi- culturally significant streets. The sented Polish Hill at the MOVEPGH pal transportation planner for Pitts- PHDC currently owns these three kick off meeting in February and subse- burgh’s Department of City Planning. parcels and manages tenants at two of quent public-comment meetings held in Interestingly, Patrick is a car-free project the properties on Dobson Street. early August. MOVEPGH is the first manager for the MOVEPGH initiative. time the City is putting together a com- He was not familiar with Gold Way and In October, PHDC put out a request bined initiative that features multi- Melwood until the PHCA team kept for proposal (RFP) to demolish two modal transportation, a bike/pedestrian bringing it forward during the sessions. vacant and condemned houses at 3111 plan and a street design manual. The Brereton Street and the house behind initiative is part of PLANPGH, the City’s On Wednesday evening, the last day of it at 3110 Dobson Street. Over the first ever comprehensive plan for the initial planning phase, Patrick told us winter and spring, the PHCA will growth over the next 25 years. The that members of the MOVEPGH team, work in partnership with PHDC to process is open and inclusive, focusing including himself, went for a bike ride solicit community input on develop- on public participation and the opportu- earlier that day so they could experience ment at this site. The goal of this pre- nity to incorporate ideas from neighbor- the corridor and how it might be trans- development design phase is to pro- hood plans into a citywide vision. formed. This is the best result we could duce an inspired, community-based hope for. Not only did we get the gate- preliminary site plan that reflects the During the August public-comment ses- way on his radar, but we also inspired neighborhood’s desire for moderate- sions, Myra Falisz, Catherine McCon- him to appreciate firsthand its potential income affordable housing and com- nell, Alexis Miller and Valerie Testa sat as a greener, safer way for pedestrians mercial space, incorporating all as- with City and transportation design and bikes to travel between Oakland and pects of sustainability: environmental, planners, presenting the principles es- Polish Hill. social and economic. This step will tablished for the Transportation & Gate- ensure that the development princi- ways section of our community plan. ples established in our plan are trans- All four board members focused on the Iron City Brewery, continued from page 5 lated into specifications for the site cut-through and speeding challenges, as Commenting on a recent Blogski post, that will then be included in the well as the positive aspects of our loca- Carol explained, “ ... The Pittsburgh PHDC’s RFP. The purpose of the RFP tion as a pivot point between downtown Historic Review Commission designated is to look for a private developer inter- and neighborhoods east. The group was the Iron City complex for protection as a ested in purchasing this site from able to share a unified vision with a va- city historic site, preventing demolition PHDC and then developing it. By riety of planning officials. of its significant buildings, as a result of sharing your best and brightest ideas Lawrenceville and Polish Hill residents to include in the RFP, Polish Hill resi- PHCA representatives volunteered a working together to nominate the prop- dents can help shape what is built total of ten hours spanning three ses- erty. So, community opinion and activ- here. sions and concentrated on two main ism have already impacted what can be areas of concern. The group communi- done there.” Because of its central location in the cated ideas for transforming Bigelow community, the Brereton-Dobson Fire Boulevard into a complete street safely Iron City Brewery has long been a quiet, Site has always had a highly visible, shared by pedestrians, bicyclists and little-noticed site down the hill, but economic and sociological influence. motorists, and also advocated for a that’s going to change in the next year or The PHCA believes strongly that the walking and biking green corridor along so — and what happens in this location scale and potential impact of this pro- Gold Way to Melwood. will affect our neighborhood, for better ject on the neighborhood requires or for worse. The next public meeting community feedback and ultimately They spoke passionately about Bigelow will be held on November 27 in Building more detailed studies, but this process as a major connector from all neighbor- T along Liberty Avenue at 6:00 p.m. will not be starting from scratch. hoods east to downtown, especially Pol- Meeting presentation files and updates Based on ideas that came from the ish Hill, Oakland and the lower Hill Dis- can be viewed at www.lvpgh.com. Community Plan process, some possi- trict. The goal was to help the City and Please consider coming out and adding ble solutions may include small com- transportation design team appreciate your voice to the process. mercial spaces, move-in condition that Bigelow presents an amazing op- homes, sustainable architecture, co- portunity to move people safely and Polish Hill Voice Page 9

Parallel actions help get more traffic calming elements in place. a much-needed Board member Valerie Testa has been working with Officer Kaine of Zone 2 to crosswalk into place advocate for speed humps to slow down drivers. In October, Officer Kaine in- By Leslie Clague stalled black boxes at a few sites to gather In early September, a neatly painted data on speeding that may help convince four-way crosswalk mysteriously the City that stronger measures are appeared at the intersection of Mel- needed. Officer Kaine also is interested wood and Finland streets. This inter- in teaming up with us to determine The hand-painted crosswalk looked quite whether a 15 MPH speed limit along the section is one of the problem spots official. Photo by Leslie Clague. along a street where residents have Melwood -- Gold Way corridor is feasi- been suffering the impact of speeding ble. solution. And drivers seem much more and careless drivers for years. The aware that this is a real stop sign." PHCA recently had been successful at We also need the help of residents with securing a stop sign at Gold Way and this project. The City hears from the Following a PHCA e-blast and Blogski Denver along this traffic-challenged PHCA a lot, but what makes a situation a post about DIY traffic calming, the corridor. The group also had been lob- priority is for the City to hear from multi- hand-painted crosswalk attracted wide bying with the City to paint a crosswalk ple residents. The City's 311 center can media attention, including articles in at the Melwood – Finland intersection. by used by concerned residents to report the Post-Gazette and the Tribune, and traffic issues, and to request things like segments on all three local television As it turned out, the crosswalk wasn’t new stop signs or a reduction in the stations. A small Associated Press item put there by the City. It was painted by speed limit. In the City of Pittsburgh, about the crosswalk was picked up by persons unknown who were quickly dial 3-1-1. Outside of Pittsburgh, call 412- news outlets across the country, and dubbed "the Crosswalk Vigilantes." 255-2621. All calls to 311 are answered even made the lead-in for National PHCA President Alexis Miller contacted by a live operator from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 Public Radio's Morning Edition. the City to let them know that while the p.m., Monday through Friday. At any The media attention clearly helped organization didn’t initiate this action time, you may leave a voice or text mes- bring results. During his interview with (and doesn’t know who did), we share sage for the 311 Response Center by dial- KDKA's Mary Robb Jackson, the head the same concern that motivated it. ing or texting 412-573-9736. Another of Public Works, Rob Kaczorowski, said Every resident we heard from liked the way to reach 311 is to use the online that city crews would be installing lar- crosswalk and hoped it would remain. form, available at http:// ger stop signs at the Melwood – www.pittsburghpa.gov/311/form. Finland intersection and would paint a Kalie Pierce, who lives near the inter- new, regulation crosswalk. Even better, section with her husband and kids, Public Works also added traffic calming Small traffic study supports said, "I spend a good amount of time on elements to the Dobson – Hancock in- residents’ belief that stop signs my porch and at the community table tersection, another site where cars tend are not slowing drivers near this intersection, and have to speed through. The PHCA had also observed a significant increase in folks been lobbying diligently for painted In October the City painted a cross- obeying the stop signs, which had in the crosswalks at this second location, and walk at the intersection of Dobson and past been either less noticeable or eas- was pleased the City responded to re- Hancock streets, something that resi- ier to ignore. We have children and quests for both locations. dents and the PHCA had been request- pets as do many other homeowners in ing for some time. The intersection the area, the simple addition of some The vigilante crosswalk painting rein- already had stop signs, but drivers often paint on the road is a lovely method of forced efforts already under way, and in seemed to ignore them. As in the case attracting attention to safety and the process, helped make the voices of of the Melwood -- Finland intersection, changing driving behaviors. I hope the residents heard. PHCA President Public Works initially declined the re- city is too busy solving actual problems Alexis Miller said, "The actions of the quest to add crosswalks. It was resi- to spend resources removing this crosswalk painters speak louder than dents and business owners, observing improvement to our neighborhood." any statement I could make about the the intersection day after day, who

way the neighborhood feels about traf- noticed that the stop signs weren't stop- Eric Woodward's family lives right on fic and speeding.” ping drivers and continued to advocate the corner of Melwood and Finland. for crosswalks. He stated, "I can say without a doubt It's good news that one location where that these crosswalks have made a huge traffic calming was badly needed now A more methodical approach supported difference. I am very proud to live in a has those elements in place. But the what residents had noticed. In July, community whose members go above Melwood – Finland intersection is one Polish Hill resident Anjelica Joy and beyond to look out for one an- location on one street. Speeding, care- Miskanin did a small traffic study at the other.” Mark Knobil of Bethoven Street less drivers and too much cut-through intersection of Dobson and Hancock for declared, "Bravo! This makes me so traffic are problems all over Polish Hill. a graduate class in research methods. proud of Polish Hill! It is the perfect The PHCA is continuing to work to get Continued on page 7 Page 10 Polish Hill Voice

Councilman Patrick Dowd Introduces Mineral Extraction Legislation to City Council By Nathaniel Hanson, from the Office of Councilman Patrick Dowd

On Tuesday, September 25, Coun- cilman Patrick Dowd introduced legis- lation that, if passed, would create strict zoning protections for City of Pittsburgh residents by regulating and restricting natural gas drilling in the City of Pittsburgh. Councilman Dowd’s legislation would establish much needed procedural requirements and land use standards to regulate drilling and protect citizens and their environ- ment.

The legislation allows for the creation Oil and gas drilling permits issued in Pennsylvania in 2011. Image from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. of Mineral Extraction Districts. To be approved, proposed MEDs would have chance that it would be overturned. In its decision, the Commonwealth to meet specific acreage requirements, Without zoning legislation in place to Court ruled that municipal governments as well as engage in an extensive public regulate and restrict drilling activities, have the fundamental right to zone at process that would include mandatory the overturned ban would leave almost the local level based upon the unique public hearings and also the approval no municipal regulations for where, how needs of their residents. The of both the Planning Commission and and when drilling could take place in Act 13 ruling provides judicial precedent City Council. The creation of regulative the City. The creation of zoning regula- for Councilman Dowd’s zoning legisla- procedures will ensure protection of tions and restrictions, including Coun- tion, allowing for better-guaranteed the City’s land, water, as well as the cilman Dowd’s requirements for a protections for City residents than the health and safety of residents. master planning process, informed drilling ban, for which there is little le-

neighboring community support, and gal support. These points have lead to questions baseline soil and water testing require- about how Councilman Dowd’s pro- ments, will allow for additional compre- Councilman Dowd’s zoning legislation posed legislation relates to the current hensive protections for City residents. will provide increased legal protection ban on natural gas drilling in the City. for the City of Pittsburgh, while also When passed by City Council, the drill- Many have asked why Councilman ensuring that there are strictly defined ing ban in Pittsburgh was a political Dowd’s zoning legislation would be bet- procedures that hold natural gas com- statement, one that did not have judi- ter equipped than the drilling ban to panies accountable and help keep our cial sustainable or enforceable provi- withstand a court challenge. The environment clean. sions. To effectively protect citizens, answer lies in the recent ruling by the City Council must enact zoning legisla- Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court on Our office is happy to answer additional tion that provides tangible and legal the state law Act 13. Act 13 attempted to questions about the proposed legisla- protection for its citizens. give the state government the power to tion, as well as questions about the cur-

override the right of cities and munici- rent ban. We can be reached by email at If the current ban were to be chal- palities to individually zone and regu- "mailto:[email protected]" lenged in court, there is a very good late drilling activities at the local level. [email protected] or by phone at 412-255-2140. Be sure to stay Seeking submissions for the February issue of the Polish Hill Voice! updated on the issue by regularly check- ing our website, Deadline Publication Date Months Covered www.pittsburghpa.gov/district7, for more information. January 15 Early February Feb/Mar/Apr Editor's note: This article is Submissions of news items, articles or photos relating to the interests and concerns of presented to inform residents about Polish Hill residents may be emailed to [email protected], or by mail to the Polish Hill the details of upcoming legislation. Civic Association, 3060 Brereton Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Images may be JPEGs (200 dpi or higher) or camera-ready art. Publication of this information does Due to space and content constraints, we may not be able to accept every submission. not imply endorsement on the part If you have any questions, please call us at 412.681.1950. of the PHCA . Polish Hill Voice Page 11

Polish Hill Civic Association Membership Application Benefits of Membership term is by calendar year. membership Just $5 makes you a PHCA member for January through December 2013

PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION NAME: A free subscription to the Voice (4 issues a year)

(Street Address)

(City) (State) (ZIP) Free courtesy admission to the PHONE: Heinz History Center for yourself and up to EMAIL: three others (Show your PHCA I’m not currently subscribed to the PHCA e-blast which comes out every other week — sign me up! membership card at the front desk) REGULAR MEMBER ~ Or ~ SUBSCRIPTION MEMBER _____(Polish Hill residents) _____(Non-residents)

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Members who are For office use only: also Polish Hill REC’D BY: ______DATE: ______GOT CARD ______LOGGED ______residents get a vote on Make checks payable to the Polish Hill Civic Association and mail with this application to: neighborhood issues! Polish Hill Civic Association, Membership Chair, 3060 Brereton Street, Pittsburgh PA 15219

Polish Hill items benefit the PHCA—order here!

Polish Hill Item Qty Cost Total t-shirt The crowned eagle on Red t-shirt Circle size(s) desired Short sleeve15.00 a red or black shirt, Youth S M in adult or youth sizes. Adults S M L XL XXL Long sleeve 20.00

Short sleeve $15.00 Long sleeve $20.00 Black t-shirt Circle size(s) desired Short sleeve15.00 Youth S M Adults S M L XL XXL Long sleeve 20.00

Polish Hill button .50 ea.

Pierogi pins and Pierogi pin 5.00 ea. ornaments $5 Handmade from felt Pierogi ornament 5.00 ea.

Button .50 ea. Postcard .50 ea. Crowned eagle on a red background, Postage 5.00 1½” diameter TOTAL Make your check out to the Polish Hill Civic Association . Ship to: Postcard Name .50 ea. Address A colorful sunset view of Brereton Street by Mark Knobil Phone, email POLISH HILL VOICE

3060 Brereton Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Phone: 412-681-1950 [email protected] www.phcapgh.org blogski.phcapgh.org

Contributors: Leslie Clague Myra Falisz Sister Lorita Kristufek Alexis Miller Anjelica Joy Miskanin Valerie Testa

Photos contributed by: Alida Baker Leslie Clague Mark Knobil Marc Rettig and the PHCA Archive

Copy Editing Josiah Parkinson

Editorial Advisor Myra Falisz

Editor and layout Leslie Clague

The PHCA’s mission is to respect and preserve the sense of community in Polish Hill while promoting economic and housing development opportunities, and improving the quality of life for our community.

Upcoming Community Meetings: Dec 4 Jan 8 Feb 5

Community meetings are open to all residents of Polish Hill — you do not have to be a PHCA member to attend!

Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Senior Center on the lower level of the West Penn Recreation Center, 450 30th Street at Paulowna Street.

It's that time of year: United Way of Allegheny County is beginning their campaign for donations to your favorite local organizations. Please consider supporting the Polish Hill Civic Association. Our organization number is 258.