In case you missed it: this week’s good reads about Pennsylvania’s urban issues
The sun hangs over the skyline of downtown Pittsburgh, beginning to melt the ice on the Allegheny river. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
It’s Friday, and at least here in Pittsburgh, it’s snowing. Perfect time to catch up on some reading!
It’s Friday, and at least here in Pittsburgh, it’s snowing. Perfect time to catch up on some reading!
Government
Pittsburgh’s Mayor Bill Peduto wrapped up his first year in office. How’s he doing? He gets pretty high marks.
A group of lawmakers has introduced a bill hoping to put stricter requirements on companies that receive corporate incentives from the state.
State Treasurer Rob McCord resigned to return to the private sector, and is allegedly under federal investigation.
The saga of the charterization of York’s public schools continues.
Families and families-to-be around the state might want to pay attention: Philadelphia is exploring ways to make child care more affordable for the poor, while Pittsburgh is looking at paid family leave for city employees.
York Mayor Kim Bracey talks optimism, underdogs and ‘paying dividends for generations’. You can also read more urban leaders weigh in on our “Five Questions with…” here.
Changing cities
The new Governor gets some advice and ideas on how he can help cities around the state.
Pittsburgh has a shiny new reputation as a most livable city, but a new report says it might not be so livable for African Americans.
Chicago planners have mapped their crumbling infrastructure in a whole lot of detail. Do you wish your city did this?
Drexel University is trying to counteract the real estate pressure it has put on the community it resides in with a center designed to serve not just faculty and students but mainly local residents.
Pittsburgh’s downtown is booming. Also, new Financial Opportunity Centers are connecting Pittsburghers to jobs, coaching, and wealth-building.
Energy news
Governor Tom Wolf restored a moratorium on new drilling leases involving Pennsylvania’s public lands.
The state Senate unanimously approved two bills Wednesday that aim to give more protections to people who earn royalty money from oil and gas drilling.
Energy companies are jostling for experienced engineers in Western Pennsylvania, where industry growth is outpacing the growth of the talent pool.
Join us!
The snow has delayed our forum in Reading to next Monday, February 2. This video will get you ready and excited for the event.
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