Restoration of Roberts and Skinny Buildings Facades

Mayor William Peduto, and Arthur Ziegler, president of the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation, announced the exterior restoration of two additional historic buildings in Downtown.

The Roberts Jewelers and Skinny Buildings at the corner of Wood Street and Forbes Avenue are part of a $4 million grant of Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which has already funded the exterior restoration of eight other important historic Downtown buildings.

Completed so far:

•       Fifth Wood Building (Kashi Jewelers and adjoining buildings at 445 Wood and 254 Fifth Avenue)

•       Italian Sons and Daughter Building at Forbes and Wood Street

•       Cast Iron front buildings at 418 to 422 Wood Street

•       The Thompson Building, 435Market Street being developed by Landmarks Development Corporation, a subsidiary of PHLF. Ralph Falbo, Ernie and Julian Vallozzi, have entered into an agreement with Landmarks to develop a grocery store in the building that will open in early fall.

“These projects bring together much of what makes Pittsburgh great: government working hand-in-hand with outside partners like the PHLF, and the ability to preserve and celebrate our past while building for the future,” said Mayor Peduto.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority contracted with PHLF to administer the RACP including selecting architects, overseeing drawings and specs, taking bids, and providing construction management, in partnership with URA.

“I believe our government and preservationists working together to preserve the best historic blocks while providing ample space for new development to rise among them is unique among the cities in the United States,” said Mr. Ziegler.

Landmarks Design Associates is the architect and Waller Construction is the general contractor.