Swissvale Council Puts Kenmawr Bridge in PennDOT's Hands

Swissvale borough council voted to give PennDOT the lead on the Kenmawr Bridge project at Wednesday's meeting.

While the borough will still be included every step of the way, according to Borough Engineer Bob Zischkau, giving PennDOT the responsibility for the project will expedite the process. 

“I whole heartily approve this. We believe that PennDOT can move and shake this project faster,” Zischkau said. 

Council also approved the potential demolition of five buildings, although according to Fire Chief Clyde Wilhelm funding through a grant will most likely only cover the cost of demolishing three.

Properties listed for potential demolition included: 7212 Agnes St., 7701 Jeremiah St., 7705 Jeremiah Street, 7728 Stanton Ave., and 2439 Woodstock Ave.

A Swissvale resident came forward during the council meeting to try to lay claim on the property at 7701 Jeremiah St. which he said he would like to buy and refurbish. 

Wilhelm said the building was still rehab able despite having roof issues.  

The council approved applications for multiple Community Development Block Grants to finance updates on Collingwood and Memorial Parks, demolition of the Filmet Building and the approved vacant properties, and Phase 2 of the plan to revitalize Swissvale businesses.

Upcoming Events
Members of the Pittsburgh Mennonite Church will be picking up trash around Swissvale in an effort to be more connected with the community. Interested volunteers will meet in front of the church located on South Braddock Ave. around 6 pm on Tuesday August 13. 

The Swissvale Rotary Club is having its annual "Wings over Swissvale" cook off at Memorial Field on September 7. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. 

Save Our Swissvale will be doing a trash pick up at 10 a.m. Saturday August 17. The group will meet at the Noble St. parking lot. 

The group will also have a meeting on August 21.