PITTSBURGH — It’s out with the old and in with new development in Oakland.
This time, the development is not necessarily catered to students at the University of Pittsburgh.
People we talked with said they are thrilled about the change.
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“I think it’s wonderful. Nothing should be left empty. Keeping commerce alive, keeps the city alive,” said Donna Deangelis of Westmoreland County.
Pitt has a bright vision for Oakland, and it’s looking to take the overall living experience to the next level for everyone.
The plan is to redevelop the old Quality Inn into a new living space.
It shut down last year at the height of the pandemic.
The future Boulevard of the Allies location would specifically house university and hospital staff, and nearby professionals so they could conveniently walk to and from their jobs.
“Everywhere housing prices are going up, rents going up, so yeah, I’d imagine that they need it here,” said Mark Barsic of Greenfield.
Pitt has hired Walnut Capital for the multimillion dollar project.
After soliciting resident feedback, Pitt now plans to build a grocery store in the same exact area.
People living and working nearby have felt the void for sometime and say it’s essential for both students and long-term residents.
“It’s always been a problem in Oakland. There was a grocery store, a Giant Eagle, which then was a CVS, which is now gonna be something else, but again that was like 20 years ago,” Barsic said.
“I think it’s wonderful to add a grocery store to make things easier. I work over at Magee and to come over and grab some lunch, different options, adds a little more to the area,” said Deangelis.
The plan is to keep Panera exactly where it’s located.
There is no official timetable on when work starts and when it will be completed.
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