Pittsburgh downtown tax diversion plan draws criticism for lack of transparency

A proposed new development tax faces opposition from transit advocates.

1 minute read

June 29, 2026, 6:00 AM PDT

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Buildings in downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. | Agnieszka Gaul / Shutterstock

Pittsburgh's proposed Downtown Transit Revitalization Investment District is facing criticism from residents who say the plan lacks transparency around public transit and affordable housing components, reports Mia Hollie in Pittsburgh's Public Source.

According to Hollie, "The plan also diverts 20% of future tax revenue toward public infrastructure projects, while the remainder of the TRID proceeds would be directed toward improvements Downtown, such as housing or storefront lifts. For its first phase of borrowing, the URA anticipates that $10 million would go to public infrastructure projects, while $40 million would go to the Golden Triangle." 

The program, which would require approval from three local taxing bodies, would divert tax revenue from new developments and direct them to residential or commercial development projects.

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