Castle Shannon Revitalization
By Councilman Mike Warhold

     Like many mature communities in Pennsylvania, significant changes in consumer shopping patterns and development costs have combined to increase competitive pressure on traditional small to medium retailers in traditional commercial districts including our own downtown business district.

     To respond to these community challenges, we have revived the Castle Shannon Revitalization Corporation (CSRC). This revival has lead to the official IRS designation of the CSRC as a 501c(3) nonprofit entity. Individuals wishing to donate can now make donations which are tax deductible. The CSRC has also begun the initial steps to secure funding to initiate a comprehensive downtown redevelopment planning effort.

     Much has been discussed about the pending development and ancillary benefits of the Shannon Station. The impact this development will have can not be minimized, however, other initiatives currently planned by the CSRC are just as promising. These initiatives include:
     Antique/Farmers Market–This project, although still in the planning stages, will involve a partnership with the Port Authority to utilize their large park and ride lot off of Castle Shannon Boulevard to conduct a monthly community market involving both antique/ craft exhibitors/dealers as well as local farmers and produce growers.

     Shannon’s Soldiers (Hometown Heroes)–We are extremely proud of this effort to honor members of the community that have served in all branches of the armed forces in all of the country’s conflicts. Families participating in this undertaking will have a banner with a picture of the family member in service which will be displayed downtown. The CSRC envisions this to be continuing event in which banners are rotated several times per year. Applications are available on line at Castle Shannon Commerce.com or at the Municipal offices. A formal dedication is scheduled for Veterans Day.

     Community Garden - Driving into the Borough from the City of Pittsburgh on Rt. 88 you will begin to see the development of the Castle Shannon Community Garden. This project was spearheaded by our newest Junior Council Member, Kristie Munson. Ms. Munson has devoted many hours to overall site planning, soil analysis, flower and tree location, and securing of the required permits. This vacant parcel of ground will be soon be gradually transformed into an all season community garden. Any individuals interested in volunteering to assist with the garden can call the borough at 412-885-9200, ext. 103.

     These initial works will not change the character of our downtown area overnight, but their success has encouraged me and the other members of the CSRC to continue to press forward with this activity.

     Council and the CSRC recognizes that fundamental changes of this magnitude do not happen overnight but can only be accomplished with a long term perspective and a vision for what we believe is possible.

For your Holiday Shopping needs
Please visit
http://www. Castle Shannon Commerce .com