Allegheny County Charts 2024 Transportation Priorities

The region will see expansions in air travel options, Amtrak improvements, and a redesigned bus system to better serve post-pandemic needs.

1 minute read

December 31, 2023, 5:00 AM PST

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Blue suitcase sits on empty train platform with sign above labeled "Pittsburgh."

Zerophoto / Adobe Stock

Federal transportation funding is spurring major projects around the country, including in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. An article by Sydney Carruth in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette runs down what residents can expect in 2024.

In transit news, “Pittsburgh Regional Transit took the first steps toward a years-long Bus Line Redesign Project that will continue into the new year. “The department said many of its bus lines don’t reflect how riders travel post pandemic. The study will address areas of the county not currently served by bus lines and update existing routes to directly link more neighborhoods together, expanding service out of Downtown.”

PennDOT also received federal grant funding to improve Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian route and rail along the Keystone West Corridor.” However, a bus operator shortage could lead to service cuts on local bus lines.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh International Airport expanded its routes in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024, while “PennDOT will receive $143.6 million in 2024 for rail improvements designed to allow Amtrak to add a second daily passenger train to the Pennsylvanian route.” Other rail projects will assess the feasibility of expanding rail lines to other Ohio cities and Chicago.

Monday, December 25, 2023 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

For Lease painted on window of vacant commercial space.

2024: The Year in Zoning

Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.

January 8, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Cyclist on bike in green painted bike lane at intersection with three-story buildings in background.

NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide

The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.

January 8, 2025 - National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)

Colorado flags draped between buildings in downtown Denver, Colorado.

Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns

City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.

January 9, 2025 - Governing

24-hour parking sign above parking garage entrance through which you can see a white SUV driving

Comprehensive Parking Supply, Cost, and Price Analysis

Every time somebody purchases a vehicle they expect governments and businesses to provide parking for their use. These facilities are costly. For every dollar motorists spend on their vehicles somebody spends about a dollar on parking.

3 hours ago - Comprehensive Parking Supply, Cost and Price Analysis

Red and white "Wildfire Evacuation Route" sign on signpost.

Learning From Wildfire Evacuations

Researchers are working to understand how people behave during wildfire events and how to most effectively get people to safety during deadly fires.

4 hours ago - Wired

Empty large outdoor parking lot with green trees in background.

Parking Reform Yields New Housing

As more cities eliminate or reduce their minimum parking requirements, the impact on housing supply is coming into focus.

5 hours ago - The New York Times

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.