Allegheny Shores moves forward with site prep, thanks to $1 million infusion from state

Sharpsburg Councilman Corey Ochai believes that the transformation of a 52-acre brownfield along the Allegheny River will grow the borough in the right direction for all.

“I don’t think we’re outgrowing the town’s DNA but improving on it,” said Ochai, of the Allegheny Shores project that broke ground in 2022.

The project is expected to fill the riverfront with housing, retail and commercial property.

The primary objective is to connect residents to the waterfront.

Allegheny Shores got a boost from the state with a $1 million grant through its Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.

The money will be used to complete site preparation for Phase 1, which includes grading, water lines, sanitary sewer lines and electrical work, along with creation of public spaces near 19th Street.

Councilman Jon Jaso called it “another success” for the community.

“Any money that we can bring in that helps develop an old brownfield site is a win-win,” Jaso said.

“I am hoping that with the additional money, this will bring us one step closer to seeing real progress on the development and bring in much needed tax money back onto the rolls. I still believe in the project and can’t wait till things start to happen.”

Planning for Allegheny Shores began nearly 10 years ago by Mosites Co. The dream is to return the 1.5-mile property to a scenic destination after it operated for decades as a slag-ridden scrapyard.

The property, laden with infrastructure and transportation obstacles, accounts for about 12% of borough acreage.

State Sen. Lindsey Williams, D-West View, believes the project is a significant investment in community space.

“This funding is focused on ensuring that our neighborhoods have those all-important third places for people to gather, celebrate, find support or just be,” Williams said.

State Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Fox Chapel, said it is a once-in-a-generation chance to bolster economic redevelopment.

“It is an opportunity to turn the abandoned industrial site into a productive asset for the region, with new development, new jobs and enhance the area’s recreational opportunities,” Steele said.

This most recent grant comes on the heels of a $25 million award in June from the U.S. Department of Transportation. That money will be used to construct a bridge over the Conemaugh rail line, roads, trails and bus stop renovations.

Borough Manager Christine DeRunk said the grants represent a monumental opportunity for the small town of about 3,500 residents.

The impacts could transform the quality of life in the borough, she said.

Ochai agreed, saying that investing in infrastructure will provide long-term benefits.

“All of it is intentional,” he said. “We’re thinking about tomorrow and working on it today.”