Date: April 28 – May 3, 20224

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Sponsor: Point Park University

Panel Chair: Leigh Ferguson, Board Member, Consultant, LMF Holdings and JMB Companies

Short-Term Recommendations: 

• Strengthen connections between PPU and the Cultural District through collaborative initiatives aimed at promoting cultural exchange and engagement. 
• Form a coalition with other universities to address housing challenges collectively through joint ventures and collaborative solutions  
• Facilitate a convening to address equity issues and foster dialogue among stakeholders to ensure inclusive decision-making processes, including equity objectives in construction RFPs 
• Implement temporary measures to enhance the Boulevard of the Allies, creating a more inviting and pedestrian-friendly environment. 
• Economic/Social Impact Study RFP: Commission a study to assess the economic and social impact of proposed projects and initiatives, informing decision-making processes. 
• Activate Wood Street: Activate Wood Street with initiatives and programming to increase foot traffic and enhance the street’s vitality in collaboration with the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP). 
• Ground Floor Pop-Ups with PDP: Partner with the PDP to facilitate ground floor pop-ups and activations, revitalizing underutilized spaces and enhancing the overall streetscape. 

Medium-Term Recommendations: 

• Increased Ground Floor Programming: Expand ground floor programming to further activate public spaces and encourage community engagement.  
• Develop comprehensive plans for improving the streetscape along the Boulevard of the Allies and implementing gateway designs to enhance the area’s visual appeal and functionality. 
• Work towards restoring student housing options to pre-COVID levels to meet the needs of an increasing student population. 
• Secure stable funding sources to support the development and maintenance of an event venue, catering to both university and community needs. 
• Establish Inclusive Neighborhood Planning Task Force 
• Promote Findings of Economic/Social Impact Study: Disseminate findings from the economic and social impact study to raise awareness and garner support for proposed initiatives and projects. 

Long-Term Recommendations: 

• Connect Wood2Wharf: Establish a connection between Wood Street and the waterfront (Wharf), enhancing connectivity and accessibility within the downtown area. 
• Implement permanent streetscape enhancements along the Boulevard of the Allies to create an inviting and functional urban environment. 

• Install gateway structures to delineate entry points and enhance the identity of the area. 
• Identify and secure a suitable site for the development of an event venue, catering to the needs of both the university and the broader community. 
• Investigate innovative financing tools and mechanisms to support the development of affordable housing options in the area. 
• Anchor Institution Collaboratives & Anti-Displacement Strategy 
• Increase Diversity & Representation among PPU Staff and Leaders 

Conclusion: 

Incorporating these recommendations into its strategic planning process, Point Park University can continue to serve as a catalyst for positive change in downtown Pittsburgh while advancing its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and equity. Through collaborative efforts and proactive initiatives, PPU will position itself as a leader in higher education and urban revitalization for years to come.