“I was deeply saddened to learn of Jerry Cohon’s passing over the weekend. Jerry served as the President of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) for 16 years and our region was transformed during this time—in large part because of his leadership and forward thinking.

“His influence on our region’s economy cannot be understated. Jerry was consistently focused on innovation, attracting talented students from across the world, and he proactively looked for ways to partner with the private and public sectors.

“Jerry knew that collaboration among our community stakeholders is our region’s greatest strength. His working partnership with former University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) President Mark Nordenberg is a perfect example. Jerry and Mark came together to spearhead entities like the Pittsburgh Digital Greenhouse, Pittsburgh Robotics Foundry, and Pittsburgh Life Sciences. With CMU’s focus on robotics and AI and Pitt’s focus on life sciences, Jerry and Mark were able to bring the most talented students and professionals from each of their respective schools to forge new ground. These bold strategies resulted in both universities securing competitive funding and leading economic development partnerships. Simply put, Jerry’s pioneering mindset helped put Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania on the global map.

“I know I join many in saying that our region is deeply grateful for Jerry’s leadership and the positive impact he made will be felt for generations to come. I want to extend my heartfelt thoughts and sympathies to his family at this difficult time.”

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“It is with great sadness that I learned about the passing of Jim Roddey this evening. Jim helped to usher in the County’s new government in 2000 and served our community in so many ways. From his philanthropic efforts to improving our economic climate, the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and all of Southwestern Pennsylvania was made a better place to work and live because of his public service.

Having been a native son of the South, he never lost his accent but he became a true black and gold Pittsburgher. From his hard work ethic to his tenacious spirit—he embodied the values of our region.

While we sometimes disagreed on political issues, for me personally, he became a mentor and sounding board when I became the County Executive. He was always available for me, and gave advice that was sound and rooted in what he believed would benefit county residents.

We all knew Jim had a wonderful sense of humor. He always had a witty joke, often times at his own expense—and had the ability to captivate an audience like few do. I am sure that he is making angels laugh this evening.

I know I join many in saying that we want to thank Jim and his family for their years of sacrifice and service to our region, and we will be ever grateful. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

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The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) $11,389,925 in grant funding to support two separate transit improvement projects. The two projects are:

• The next phase of the PRTX University Line Bus Rapid Transit project, which will extend BRT from Oakland to Squirrel Hill, will receive $7,418,343 in funding to support transit stations and rider amenities along Forbes Avenue from Craig Street to Murray Avenue, and the
• Microtransit Pilot Project will receive $3,971,582 in funding to support smaller scale transit solutions in five communities.  

“We are focused on modernizing, increasing accessibility, and meeting our riders needs,” said Katherine Kelleman, CEO of Pittsburgh Regional Transit. “The first phase of construction on the University Line BRT has already started and our Microtransit Pilot Project will deliver affordable, accessible transit for residents living in Tarentum Borough, Brackenridge Borough, Harrison Township, the City of McKeesport, and Versailles Borough. We rely on partners like SPC to help us with our planning needs, and we’re grateful that this funding is going to support two innovative projects.”

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects in the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.        

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation. 

“PRT is focused on forward-thinking transit projects that will help propel our region forward,” said  Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “The BRT and Microtansit Pilot Project are just two examples of how PRT is innovating its services for riders. Its buses, light rails, inclines, and paratransit services already deliver more than 30 million rides annually, and our organization is here to support PRT with its ongoing efforts to increase accessibility in communities that need it the most.”

Initiatives like PRT’s transit improvement projects reflect the vision of SPC’s Long Range Transportation Plan which strives to ensure that the region is connected and has multimodal mobility for all. It also aligns with SPC’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Strategic Action Plan. TDM focuses on the decisions that people and businesses make every day about travel, and involves providing travelers with information, options, and incentives that expand travel choices.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding the City of Pittsburgh $6,603,495 in grant funding to support three separate pedestrian safety improvements projects. The three separate initiatives are:  

• Brownsville Road Corridor project will receive $3,603,495 in funding to make improvements to traffic signals and enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility improvements;  
• East Ohio Street Safety/Streetscape project will receive $1,500,000 to make improvements to traffic signals and enhance pedestrian safety; and
• East Liberty-Negley Avenue project will receive $1,500,000 to make safety improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists.

“Making Pittsburgh the safest city in America means making our streets safe for everyone who drives, rolls, or walks on them every day,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “This funding will support our ongoing efforts to put our residents first, as their safety and well-being is the number one priority of my administration.”

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects in the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.        

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation. 

“Pedestrian safety is a key focus of our organization, as we work to support the region,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “From Brownsville Road to East Ohio Street to East Liberty and Negley Avenue, these streets are used heavily by both pedestrians and bicyclists. To foster their safety, ongoing improvements need to be made and we’re proud to support the City with its ongoing effort to do just that.”

Initiatives like the City’s pedestrian improvement projects reflect the vision of SPC’s Long Range Transportation Plan which strives to ensure that the region is connected and has multimodal mobility for all. It also aligns with SPC’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Strategic Action Plan. TDM focuses on the decisions that people and businesses make every day about travel, and involves providing travelers with information, options, and incentives that expand travel choices.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding $1,802,060 in grant funding to support two trail projects in Allegheny County. The Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) will receive $1 million to support the expansion of the Panhandle Trail Extension and South Fayette Township will receive $802,060 in funding to make improvements along the Fairview Park Trail Network.

“We are thankful to the SPC for its commitment to trail building throughout our region,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato. “We look forward to working on securing the expansion of the Panhandle trail so that residents and visitors have access to trail systems that contribute to our economy and quality of life.”

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects in the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.    

“A lot of thoughtful planning and development went into making South Fayette Township the thriving community that it is today but there is still work we have to do,” Chuck Lazzini, President of the Board of Commissioners for South Fayette Township. “We are thankful to SPC for recognizing and valuing the merits of our grant application and awarding us with this funding. This grant nicely complements our Active Transportation Plan and will go far to improve outdoor recreational opportunities for our residents.”

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation. 

“We are fortunate to have trails like the Panhandle and Fairview Park Network that provide not only wonderful recreational opportunities for residents, but serve as anchors for economic growth,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Fostering this area of economic development is how we holistically support our local communities while also ensuring that we protect and preserve our environment.”

Outdoor recreation is a critical sector in the state’s economy. In 2021, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), outdoor recreation added $14 billion to the state’s economy which included nearly $1.3 billion that was spent on trips, trailside businesses, lodging, and hospitality establishments.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding Bike Share Pittsburgh (dba POGOH) $2,160,000 in grant funding to support bikeshare station expansions, ebikes, and charging stations. POGOH applied for grant funding under its Mobility Justice in Mircomobility initiative. POGOH is a 501c3 non-profit organization located in the Strip District and it operates Pittsburgh’s bikeshare system.

“Our mission has always been to provide Pittsburgh with a sustainable, equitable, and affordable mobility service for both residents and visitors,” said David White, Executive Director of Bike Share Pittsburgh. “Over the years, Pittsburgh has been completely transformed by introducing new people to biking as a mobility option, and by the robust support received from the private and public sectors. This grant will enable us to expand our reach within the city by expanding POGOH’s availability in new areas, and we are thankful to SPC for its continued support. We couldn’t do this work without them.”  

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects in the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.        

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation. 

“Bike Share Pittsburgh has demonstrated that bikesharing can be a reliable, accessible, and convenient transportation option for many,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “The organization is committed to increasing accessibility and connectivity for City residents and visitors, and we’re proud to support their efforts.”       Initiatives like Bike Share Pittsburgh’s Mobility Expansion Project reflect the vision of SPC’s Long Range Transportation Plan which strives to ensure that the region is connected and has multimodal mobility for all. It also aligns with SPC’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Strategic Action Plan. TDM focuses on the decisions that people and businesses make every day about travel, and involves providing travelers with information, options, and incentives that expand travel choices.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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Pittsburgh, PA—The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding Kittanning Borough $500,000 in grant funding to support pedestrian and accessibility improvements for its streetscape project.

“Kittanning’s streetscape project is an ongoing initiative that has been a borough-driven initiative that the county fully supports,” said John Strate, Chair of the Armstrong County Commissioners. “The borough played significant role in our region’s history, and making these kinds of efforts to beautify and revitalize the downtown area for our residents and small business owners is another step in helping to grow the local economy.”

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects in the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.

“I am encouraged investments continue to be made throughout Kittanning to revitalize the community. The Southwest Planning Commission (SPC) funds will complement the recent $500,000 in Redevelopment Assistance Capitol Program (RACP) funding my office helped secure for this important initiative. These improvements will build upon the revitalization efforts that were made on Market Street over the last several years,” said Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman. “I look forward to continuing to support these efforts and working with the SPC, Armstrong County Commissioners, Rep. Donna Oberlander and Kittanning Borough Council. It is imperative we continue collaborating together to revitalize the county seat.”

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

“Our borough has a rich history, and we are excited for its vibrant future,” said Chris Schiano, Kittanning Councilman, Vice President of Ward 2. “We are in the midst revitalizing our downtown corridor, and this grant will support the borough’s efforts to enact changes that will positively impact our business community and residents.”

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation.

“As the county seat of Armstrong County, Kittanning is a lively borough with a strong small business community and nearby trails that many bicyclists and walkers use,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Allocating funding for the borough’s streetscape project is a tangible way for the SPC to support the community, and demonstrates that we’re focused on helping to improve the quality of life for the communities we serve.”

Initiatives like Kittanning Borough’s streetscape project reflects the vision of SPC’s Long Range Transportation Plan which strives to ensure the region is connected and has multimodal mobility for all. It also aligns with the organization’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Strategic Action Plan. TDM focuses on the decisions that people and businesses make every day about travel, and involves providing travelers with information, options, and incentives that expand travel choices.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding Greene County $946,083 in grant funding to support sidewalk and pedestrian safety improvements as part of the Waynesburg Commons  Multimodal Improvement Project. This project will make improvements around Commons Park near Waynesburg University safer for students and community residents that utilize the area.   

“The Waynesburg Commons Multimodal Improvement Project will enhance the livelihood of students that attend Waynesburg University and local residents that frequent the park,” said Jared Edgreen, Chairman of the Greene County Commissioners. “This park is a vital part of our community, and we want to ensure that anyone walking in or near it has safe sidewalks to use. We are grateful for SPC’s funding, as it will go a long way to ensuring this project comes to its full fruition.”

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects in the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.        

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation. 

“Increasing safety for pedestrians is one of our organization’s priorities and this funding will directly impact local residents,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “When we create environments that foster mechanisms which protect and keep residents safe during their travels, communities have the opportunity to thrive.”    

Initiatives like the Waynesburg Commons Multimodal Improvement Project reflect the vision of SPC’s Long Range Transportation Plan which strives to ensure that the region is connected and has multimodal mobility for all. It also aligns with SPC’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Strategic Action Plan. TDM focuses on the decisions that people and businesses make every day about travel, and involves providing travelers with information, options, and incentives that expand travel choices.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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Pittsburgh, PA—Today, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) Board elected Armstrong County Commissioner Pat Fabian to serve as Chair, Fayette County Commissioner Vince Vicites to serve as Vice-Chair, and Greene County Commissioner Betsy McClure to serve as Secretary-Treasurer. Commissioners Fabian, Vicites, and McClure were elected by their fellow board members to these positions, and will serve a two-year term.

The Board’s new officers will shape the Commission’s work for the next several years and intend to focus on workforce and economic development, transportation planning, and other initiatives like investments in broadband, water resources, attracting business investments, and expanding pedestrian and bicycle trails throughout the region.

“Together, Commissioners Fabian, Vicites, and McClure make a dynamic team, and we are fortunate to have their leadership,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Our organization functions as a consensus builder and we work in a collaborative manner in order to support the needs of the entire region. We bring entities from the public and private sectors together to discuss wide-ranging issues that impact our 10 counties. By having Armstrong, Fayette, and Greene counties at the helm of our Board, I know that the Commissioners will elevate the priorities of all of our urban, suburban, and rural communities.”

Commissioner Fabian has served as County Commissioner since 2016. During his time as Commissioner, he has increased the County’s operating reserve fund from $600,000 to $8 million and led efforts to significantly change the County’s pension funds from $60 million to $85 million. Additionally, he has worked diligently to reduce the County’s debt by 20 percent since he was first elected. Prior to serving as County Commissioner, Fabian was a Supervisor in Manor Township. Before entering public serve, he spent more than 15 years as an outpatient and family therapist at the Family Counseling Center of Armstrong County where he was responsible for providing counseling to patients and creating individualized treatment plans. He has his Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Gannon University and his Master’s degree in Community Counseling from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

“I cannot wait to hit the ground running and serve the Board in this leadership role,” said Pat Fabian, Chair of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “The entire region is well-positioned to work collectively as a team with one voice on major issues like job creation and broadband connectivity. While our approach to challenges may, at times, be different, we all have one goal—and that is to improve the overall quality of life for Southwestern Pennsylvania’s residents. We are able to advocate better for them when we all work together.”

Commissioner Vicites has served as Fayette County Commissioner two separate times. The Commissioner first served County residents from 1996 to 2011 and then again from 2016 till the present day. He was born and raised in Uniontown and has worked in county government for over 30 years. Prior to serving as County Commissioner, Vicites was the Fayette County Recycling Coordinator and started the Hard to Recycle Events at the County’s Fairgrounds, which has continued for over 30 years. As County Commissioner, he has been instrumental in creating and retaining over 10,000 jobs and securing over $200 million in economic and infrastructure projects for Fayette County residents. He graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Human Resources from St. Francis University.

“I am excited to work with my fellow officers and board members on initiatives that will benefit Fayette County residents and the entire region,” said Vince Vicites, Vice-Chair of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “We’ve made a lot of tangible progress in recent years on issues like economic investments and the expansion of trails, but there is still more work to do and we are ready for it.”

Commissioner McClure has served as Greene County Commissioner since 2020. She has been a lifelong resident of Greene County and prior to serving as County Commissioner, McClure was a registered nurse for over 25 years. As Commissioner, McClure has been focused on making the county a better place to live and work. She is deeply committed to attracting businesses and industry development that strengthens the economic livelihood of Greene County, while ensuring that residents are still able to maintain the advantages of living in a rural community. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and her Master’s degree in Education from California University of Pennsylvania.

“I am looking forward to serving in this new role, and advocating for the needs of our residents,” said Betsy McClure, Secretary-Treasurer of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Whether it is workforce development, increased access to transportation options, or outdoor recreational sites that spur local economies, our entire region is on the precipice of exciting growth.”

SPC employs 50 individuals that work on behalf the 10 county region in Southwestern Pennsylvania. As the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDA), the organization works to keep the region connected and moving forward. As part of this work, SPC helps counties, cities, municipalities and townships access approximately $39 billion in state and federal transportation and economic development funding that has been allocated to the region through 2045.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic and workforce development priorities for the region.

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The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is awarding the City of Butler $1,545,356 in grant funding to support sidewalk and pedestrian safety improvements along downtown Main Street. This project will make improvements to sidewalks and crosswalks, and increase accessibility for both local students and residents. 

“The City of Butler is a vital part of our County’s economy and Main Street is frequented by all County residents,” said Leslie Osche, Chair of the Butler County Commissioners. “This funding will ensure that our sidewalks are safe for not only County residents and visitors, but our local students who use it as a way to get to and from their schools downtown—this project helps to ensure that their safety remains at the forefront of ongoing revitalization efforts.”

SPC recently completed the selection process for its discretionary competitive grant program which selects certain projects within the region to receive federal funding. The organization has a selection committee that reviews grant applications submitted from counties and municipalities within its coverage area. The grant applications are then competitively reviewed and scored to ensure that these projects adhere to federal standards.

“The City is vibrant and we have so much to look forward to,” said Bob Dandoy, Mayor of the City of Butler. “We are very fortunate to work closely with our County Commissioners, and Joe Saeler from the Butler County Community Development Corporation. Joe was instrumental in supporting us throughout the grant application process. I am confident that because of this existing collaboration, robust support and hard work, the City will continue to flourish. When we all work together towards a common goal, our students, residents, and business community will reap the benefits.”   

As the region’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Local Development District (LDD), and Economic Development District (EDD), SPC receives an allotment of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it can award to entities that have improvement projects which qualify under three areas: Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program (CMAQ), Carbon Reduction program (CRP), and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) program.

The CMAQ and CRP programs accept applications from counties and municipalities that have projects which will help to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Eligible initiatives under these two programs can include pedestrian and bicycle facility projects, transit improvement programs, electric vehicles and charging stations, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and diesel engine retrofitting/replacements. The TASA program accepts applications from counties and municipalities for projects that support transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving access to public transportation, enhanced mobility, recreational trails, safe routes to schools, and environmental mitigation. 

“Awarding this grant to the City of Butler so that it can increase pedestrian safety for its local residents and students is one of the ways that the SPC works to make that happen, said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Students need to be kept safe on their way to and from school and when we are able to play a role in ensuring that happens—we are living up to our commitment to serve and support our region.”

Initiatives like the City of Butler’s pedestrian safety improvement project reflects the vision of SPC’s Long Range Transportation Plan which strives to ensure the region is connected and has multimodal mobility for all. It also aligns with SPC’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Strategic Action Plan. TDM focuses on the decisions that people and businesses make every day about travel, and involves providing travelers with information, options, and incentives that expand travel choices.

Media Inquiries: Caitlin O’Connor
Cell: 412-719-5366
coconnor@spcregion.org

###

About Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission:
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) is the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO), local development district (LDD), and economic development district (EDD) serving 10 counties. The organization’s coverage area includes Allegheny including the City of Pittsburgh, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties. It is responsible for planning and prioritizing the use of state and federal transportation funding and establishing economic/workforce development priorities for the region.

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