Part of beginning to revitalize the business district involved working in conjunction with volunteers, businesses, and community leaders, to develop an extensive plan to set the ball in motion. Read the full Wilkinsburg Business District Plan.

Read more about WCDC’s programs and projects:

• Image and Identity
• Green, Clean, and Safe
• Education and Youth

Read more about the Wilkinsburg Business District Revitalization in the WCDC’s 2010 Annual Report.

The office's new sign adds definition to the corner of Penn and Wood

(click on image for full-size)

NEXT STEPS IN THE
BUSINESS DISTRICT REVITALIZATION PLAN
• Update Business District Zoning recommendations
• Work with building owners to make space code-compliant to respond to market demand.
• Provide incentives for developers and investors to reclaim vacant space
• Work with the Borough to streamline permitting process.
• Pursue the ability to provide liquor licenses.
• Renovate the Business District streetscape as a model of urban sustainability
• Initiate a major clean-up and maintenance effort followed by regular street sweeping, litter removal, and sidewalk cleaning.
• Renovate, stabilize or demolish blighted buildings; hold property owners accountable for paying taxes and complying with building and maintenance codes.
• Initiate the Main Street Program and hire a Main Street Manager.
• Promote a major, visible project on Penn Avenue, such as the renovation of the Penn Lincoln Hotel.
• Engage in a media relations effort to rebrand the Wilkinsburg Business District as safe, “the next big thing,” and a desirable place to own a business and shop.
• Conduct stakeholder interviews to provide feedback on our progress to date