Tuesday, Jan. 6: Mayor’s Oath + Bank Expansion + Traffic Signal
Tuesday, Jan. 6
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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O’Connor sworn in as mayor, Shapiro pledges partnership.
Corey O’Connor was sworn in Monday as the 62nd mayor of Pittsburgh, following in the footsteps of his late father, Bob O’Connor, who held the office two decades ago. In an emotional speech, O’Connor said: “It is my own family that motivated me to launch my campaign. I want everybody to choose to raise their families in Pittsburgh.” Governor Shapiro offered his support during the ceremony, saying, “When Pittsburgh succeeds, our entire commonwealth does as well.” New and returning city council members were also sworn in yesterday, including Kim Salinetro, who now represents District 2.
PNC closes $4.1B FirstBank deal, expands Denver-Phoenix reach.
Pittsburgh-based PNC Financial has finalized its $4.1 billion acquisition of Colorado’s FirstBank, marking its first major deal in five years. The merger, announced in September and cleared by regulators in December, expands PNC’s footprint in Denver and Phoenix—two key growth markets. Integration into PNC’s national platform is underway, with customer conversions expected this summer. CEO Bill Demchak says the move reflects shared values and a growth-focused vision. The deal supports PNC’s broader expansion plans, including a $2 billion investment in 300 new branches nationwide through 2030.
State funding adds North-James signal to North Avenue project.
Pittsburgh’s North Avenue safety project will now include a key traffic signal, thanks to newly announced state funding. The city had previously lacked the money to install a light at North and James Street as part of a $5 million plan to calm traffic near Allegheny General Hospital and Allegheny Commons Park. But with $1.4 million from PennDOT’s Green Light-Go Program, Pittsburgh will replace that and two other signals. The project, shaped over a decade of community input, also includes lane reductions, medians, and safety islands.
Brookline Teen Outreach gives teens meals, support, belonging.
In Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood, a nonprofit is helping teens manage stress and connect with peers. Brookline Teen Outreach, founded in 2015, offers free educational support and social programming for youth ages 10 to 18. Executive Director Caitlin McNulty says the center serves around 270 young people each year, offering everything from meals and games to mental health resources. The nonprofit partners with Compassionate Counseling for individualized support and employs a student wellness coordinator to assist teens facing behavioral challenges. The goal: to offer teens a space where they feel respected, supported, and empowered.
Pittsburgh City Paper shuts down after 34-year run.
The Pittsburgh City Paper has officially ceased operations, ending a 34-year run as the city’s leading alternative weekly. The closure was revealed by staff on social media, with editor Colin Williams calling it “a bigger loss for Pittsburgh readers.” Parent company Block Communications confirmed the shutdown, citing “economic realities facing news organizations.” Block had acquired the paper in 2023 from Eagle Media. The closure leaves a notable gap in the city’s media landscape, especially in arts and alternative coverage.
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