Controversial Zoning Changes Clear the Way for New Pittsburgh Subdistrict

The Pittsburgh City Council voted recently to move forward with zoning changes to accommodate a new subdistrict development that would add 1,000 apartment units and amenities to the neighborhood of Oakland. The zoning amendment is now onto the city's planning commission for a hearing and a recommendation.

Mark Belko reports on the council's vote, unanimous despite the opposition of some in the neighborhood, like the Oakland Planning and Development Corporation, "a registered community group that has led the fight to delay action, ripped council’s decision." Opponents are hoping the city would wait to approve the zoning changes until the completion of a neighborhood master plan.

Hanging in the balance is a proposal by developer Walnut Capital "to add a new subdistrict to five existing public realm districts in Oakland," according to Belko. "The change would accommodate its proposal to add 1,000 apartment units and other amenities in the central and south parts of the neighborhood."

Councilmember Bruce Kraus, who represents the neighborhood of Oakland, negotiated changes to the zoning amendment for the project that include "drastically" reduced building heights, according to Belko.

The development, as currently planned, could include more than six new apartment buildings, with no allotment for affordable units. The legislation would require, however, "that at least 10% of the units in an apartment complex be designated as 'walk to work' housing. Those units cannot rent for more than 30% of a person’s gross income."