2020 Comprehensive Plan Annual Report

2020

Comprehensive Plan Annual Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION

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CORE OBJECTIVE 1: ALIGN WORKFORCE, EDUCATION, EMPLOYERS, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

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Strategies 1.1 - 1.6

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Core objective 2: Discover westmoreland

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Strategies 2.1 - 2.5

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Core objective 3: reposition our towns

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Strategies 3.1 - 3.5

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core objective 4: connect with parks and nature

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Strategies 4.1 - 4.4

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core objective 5: build healthy and whole communities

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Strategies 5.1 - 5.7

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core objective 6: plug into the new economy

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Strategies 6.1 - 6.4

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core objective 7: create transportation choices

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Strategies 7.1 - 7.7

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Conclusion

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Westmoreland County commissioners

Realizing the goals of Reimagining Our Westmoreland wouldn’t be possible without the leadership, commitment, and diligent work of the Westmoreland County Board of Commissioners. Thank you to the Commissioners, for your service and for going above and beyond for Westmoreland County residents,

Gina Cerilli, Secretary

Sean Kertes, Chairman

Doug Chew, Vice-Chairman

business, and organizations.

Introduction

Population Change

Westmoreland County 2018 to 2019* Natural Change

Births 2,869

Reimagining Our Westmoreland Mission Attract, develop, and retain a diverse and stable workforce that will sustain a healthy economy Reflecting on 2020, there is no denying that the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic presented a number of challenges and brought about immense economic, political, and social uncertainty for many.

Each of us, from parents and students to business owners, teachers, municipal leaders, and everyone in between have all had to make significant changes to everyday life and pivot to make it through this time of crisis.

For many of our community leaders, this past year was an incredible learning opportunity and season of growth, illuminating what’s truly important. It has allowed us to see just how critical broadband infrastructure is in everything that we do; how even in a time of crisis, we can and must pull together to do what’s necessary to help our neighbors and small businesses; and how we still have a long way to go when it comes to making Westmoreland County a more welcoming and inclusive place.

Although this past year was anything but normal, 2020 also provided us with the opportunity to show our ingenuity, resourcefulness, and sincere commitment to community. Through these difficult times, we have found ways to keep our doors open, lights on, and take steps forward as a county. Amid the challenges, together, we have continued to make progress on Reimagining Our Westmoreland’s goal of attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse and stable workforce that will sustain a healthy economy.

This annual report is intended to provide a brief summary not only of our collective work, but also reflective of and upholding the plan’s principles for action including accountability, partnership, action, creativity, communication, and performance monitoring. Let us celebrate our accomplishments and remember this past year as a chance to come together and show up in unique ways, dig deep, and work hard.

Jason Rigone, Director Westmoreland County Department of Planning and Development

Migration

International Migration 42

Deaths -4,435

Domestic Migration -8

Net Migration 34

Natural Increase -1,566 Net Change -1,532

*2020 figures were not available at the time of report publication

Strategy Champions Throughout this report, we highlight the Strategy Champions or organizations most relevant for strategy implementation. These organizations have identified themselves as Reimagining Our Westmoreland strategic partners and have taken the lead on, or are involved with, actions within a given strategy.

Thank you to our Strategy Champions, for undertaking this important work and for committing your time, energy, and resources to help make the vision of Reimagining Our Westmoreland a reality.

thank you, frontline workers A special thank you to frontline workers for sacrificing so much to ensure the health and safety of our community and continued operation of our economy. From nurses and doctors, to public works crews, police and fire services, grocery store employees, bus drivers, restaurant workers, and many, many more, you are the heroes seeing us through this crisis. Thank you for showing up every day to do your job to keep us safe.

Planning Division Daniel Carpenter, Deputy Director Victoria Baur, Planning Coordinator Connor Shapiro, Planning Coordinator

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Small business Source: Dan Burton, Unsplash

CORE OBJECTIVE 1: ALIGN WORKFORCE, EDUCATION, EMPLOYERS, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP PRIORITIZING AND STRENGTHENING SMALL BUSINESSES THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES The COVID-19 pandemic has made things undeniably tough for small businesses. As restrictions caused uncertainty, many small businesses switched into survival mode and are still reeling. Across the U.S., it is estimated that more than 160,000 small businesses have permanently closed since the start of the pandemic and it may be years before the economic impacts are fully understood. Those affects have been felt close to home in our own Westmoreland County communities.

According to a survey conducted by the Greensburg-based nonprofit, Greensburg Community Development Corporation, 97% of local business respondents reported a decrease in sales since the spring 2020 shutdown, and roughly two-thirds reported that they believe their business will be at risk of permanently closing.

In response to impacts on small businesses caused by the pandemic, Westmoreland County, in conjunction with the Economic Growth Connection (EGC), distributed more than $6 million federal CARES Act funds, made available through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) COVID-19 County Relief Block Grant Program, to small businesses in Westmoreland County through the county’s Small Business Support Grant Program. As a leading private nonprofit economic development corporation that works to develop business opportunities and financing to create, support, and retain quality jobs and companies throughout Westmoreland and the region, EGC provided much needed professional administrative oversight and coordination to review hundreds of small business grant applications for the program.

According to Jim Smith, Executive Director of the Economic Growth Connection, “Businesses are hurting through all of the restrictions and shutdowns which has resulted in a loss of business. This also means that their finances have been seriously hit. As an economic development corporation tasked with supporting small businesses, jumping in to help distribute these critical funds was an easy decision to make.”

The first-come, first-served program doled out funds up to $25,000, or 25% of calculated revenue loss related to COVID-19 impacts and/or pandemic related expenses, per business. Across the two rounds of funding, 380 small business grants totalling $6.38 million were distributed. In ad-

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dition to assisting small businesses, the program also distributed funds to nonprofits experiencing impacts due to COVID-19, resulting in over 130 grants totalling $1.87 million distributed to nonprofits across the two rounds of funding.

“When we think about the restaurants, businesses, and organizations we love to go to, we may not always think about how that place of business is the life or livelihood of the people who work there. Supporting businesses through this difficult time is supporting their livelihoods,” said Smith.

In addition to the Small Businesses Support Grant Program, EGC helped administer and distribute other funds to businesses through the PA DCED COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program totalling $3.7 million and through the Economic Growth Connection Recovery Grant Program, which was funded by a $250,000 grant from the R.K. Mellon Foundation.

To help track success stories and promote local businesses working to keep their doors open and lights on, EGC developed the #KeepTheLightsOn social media campaign. Complete with video interviews with local business owners that have received funding assistance, according to Smith, the campaign serves as a way to give small businesses recognition for “weathering the storm.” “We created the #KeepTheLightsOn campaign to help our local businesses get their name out there and to let their customers know that they are still there.” He continued, “Instead of going to a chain restaurant or businesses, why not choose to support our local small businesses?”

Looking ahead, EGC plans to support small businesses, specifically those in the hospitality-related industry, by administering the COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP). Funded by PA DCED’s COVID-19 County Relief Block Grant Program, CHIRP will distribute grants in $5,000 increments up to $20,000 to restaurants, bars, inns, and other businesses negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To learn more about the Economic Growth Connection’s efforts to support small businesses, including the CHIRP program, visit https://egcw. org/.

Strategy Updates Strategy 1.1

Champion Skilled Labor • •

University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg’s Service, Initiative, Transition, Resource, Education, and Partnership (SITREP) program helped transition local veterans into college Eastern Westmoreland CTC in Derry and Central Westmoreland CTC in New Stanton received grants from the PA Department of Education to update equipment to train students for occupations that are in high demand

Strategy 1.2

Strategy Champions Economic Growth Connection Penn State New Kensington Saint Vincent College SBDC Westmoreland County IDC Workforce Forum

Leverage Local talent • • • •

The Westmoreland County Community College (WCCC) announced a collaboration with Hempfield Area High School that will allow students to graduate with Associate of Arts degrees while attending high school IUP announced plans to partner with WCCC on a new dual admissions program, aimed at streamlining the transfer process for students Seton Hill University announced plans to launch new undergraduate certificate programs in Addictions & Substance Abuse and Business Leadership that can be completed in eight months Eastern Westmoreland CTC re-initiated Manufacturing 2000, a free grant-funded machining course, for adults looking to gain new skills

Strategy 1.3

assist small businesses • •

• •

Westmoreland County continued to make supporting and assisting small businesses a priority during the global pandemic, distributing more than $6 million COVID-19 relief funds to small businesses Saint Vincent College’s SBDC helped 14 Westmoreland County entrepreneurs successfully launch their own small business, like Allusion Brewing in downtown Vandergrift, through services such as no-fee confidential business consulting and educational programming PSNK developed the Westmoreland County Success(ion) Planning Program, to help keep businesses operational and successful GCDC’s COVID-19 Relief Main Street Jump-Start Program, funded through a $150,000 grant from the R. K. Mellon Foundation, helped provide relief to 25 small businesses in downtown Greensburg

Penn State New Kensington Source: Rebecca Dietrich

Strategy 1.4

Advance entrepreneurialism •

Export Makerspace opened on Kennedy Ave in Export Borough and provides both space and tools to makers and entrepreneurs to see their ideas for projects through

Eastern Westmoreland Career & Technology Center Source: https://www.ewctc.net/

Strategy 1.5

Connect with tech •

•

PSNK made progress on building the infrastructure, personnel, and programming that will be offered at the Digital Foundry in New Kensington.

The $5.5 million digital innovation and manufacturing lab will support education and manufacturing in the region In an international competition, ARCH Cutting Tools’ plant located in Unity Township, won the 2020 ANCA Tool of the Year Award for its carbide cutting tool

Strategy 1.6

provide development-ready sites • • • •

WCIDC completed renovation work on an unoccupied building at the Jeannette Industrial Park with a $657,000 state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant Affival Inc. of Plum relocated its operations to the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park (formerly Schreiber Industrial Park), keeping 50 manufacturing jobs in the Alle-Kiski Valley RACW made progress at the former Porcelain Park in Derry Borough to create development-ready sites with utilities RIDC Westmoreland announced plans to renovate the RIDC Westmoreland Industrial Complex near New Stanton, which could bring more than 100 jobs

Digital Foundry at New Kensington interior rendering Source: R3A Architecture

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Welcome sign Source: Belinda Fewings, Unsplash

CORE OBJECTIVE 2: DISCOVER WESTMORELAND A WELCOME WESTMORELAND - KEY ORGANIZATIONS TAKE THE LEAD ON TACKLING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY, WORK TO GROW POPULATION Over the last decade, Westmoreland County’s population has experienced rapid decline. From 2010 to 2019, the county saw a decline of roughly 16,000 people. This is due to, in general, people having fewer children, deaths outpacing births, and migration, or people moving both in and out of the county, being virtually neutral. This trend is not only true at the county-level, but also for the entire region. From 2010 to 2019, the 10-county region saw a decline of roughly 37,000 people. With these downward trends, we are facing a critical workforce issue. The immediate concern is that local employers and companies are going to have to close, automate, or relocate outside of our area, further complicating the issue.

In response to these trends, Westmoreland County developed Reimagining Our Westmoreland to identify goals and strategies that will help attract, develop, and retain a diverse and stable workforce that will sustain a healthy economy. One strategy that specifically speaks to the plan’s mission is Strategy 2.3, Welcome Everyone, which lays out policies, programs, and projects to help better embrace and welcome new people into Westmoreland County, and to also cultivate an open and inclusive environment.

Utilizing a $75,000 grant from the R. K. Mellon Foundation, the Greensburg-based nonprofit, Westmoreland Community Action, took the lead on this strategy by kicking-off the Welcome Westmoreland initiative in October 2020. The initiative has already created two committees, the Welcoming Westmoreland Committee and Diversity & Inclusivity Committee, both of which are filled with representatives from nonprofit, business, local government, civic, and educational sectors.

“I saw this as an opportunity to be able to take steps in making Westmoreland a more welcoming and diverse place,” said Mandy Zalich, CEO of Westmoreland Community Action. “If folks don’t feel like this is a welcoming place to move to, they aren’t going to, regardless of how many great resources we have. Generally speaking, if you don’t feel at home somewhere, you’re not going to take a job or willingly move there.”

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To support cultivating a welcoming environment and attracting new residents, the Welcoming Westmoreland Committee is focused on business and marketing initiatives, and developing information, resources, and content for a future website and social media channels. The Diversity & Inclusivity Committee is focused on developing training resources and policies or codes of ethics for businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations to use internally or within the community. Other goals of the initiative are to increase social engagement, build social connections, and grow social inclusion in Westmoreland.

Other organizations working to tackle diversity and inclusion in the county include the Westmoreland Diversity Coalition and Westmoreland Museum of American Art. Throughout 2020, the museum worked to promote diversity and inclusion by highlighting the talents of LGBTQ+ artists and performers through online programs and events. The museum also created a new artist residency program to help support marginalized artists and artists of color.

Additionally, thanks to a partnership between the Westmoreland Diversity Coalition and the Westmoreland Museum of American Art, ten artists worked to create original artwork for the Diversity Billboard Art Project around the theme “Make Our Differences Our Strengths.” The project, funded by a $150,000 grant from the Heinz Endowment’s Just Arts program, installed artwork on highway billboards around the county as a way to convey how diversity and inclusion can make Westmoreland County stronger.

Through these efforts, Westmoreland County organizations are showing their commitment to realizing the plan’s goals by working to embrace diversity and nurture an open and inclusive environment, ultimately shaping our local culture to welcome all.

Strategy Updates Strategy 2.1

Create & promote a county brand • • • •

Westmoreland County made progress on the creative development of a countywide brand campaign, which is set to roll out in 2021 Greater Latrobe School District was ranked among the best school districts across the state by the Pittsburgh-based website, Niche.com GO Laurel Highlands rolled out a #FreshAirFun campaign emphasising outdoor activities as a way to continue to attract visitors to tourist destinations amid pandemic restrictions GO Laurel Highlands launched the second year of Pour Tour passports which support local craft industries and tourism

Strategy Champions GO Laurel Highlands Westmoreland Community Action Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce Westmoreland Cultural Trust Westmoreland County Planning

Strategy 2.2

Cultivate arts & entertainment •

• • •

•

Westmoreland Cultural Trust created a virtual platform to livestream performances thanks to a $200,000 grant from the R. K. Mellon Foundation. The Trust also organized a variety of outdoor concert series and events Westmoreland Community Action completed construction of an amphitheater on Clay Ave in Jeannette, across from newly opened Sobel’s Obscure Brewery Downtown Greensburg Project’s 4th annual Craft Beer Week provided a variety of both indoor and outdoor opportunities for people to support local businesses Construction was completed on the new $150 million mini casino, Live!

Casino, at the former Bon-Ton space of Westmoreland Mall in Hempfield Township. The casino features 750 slot machines, 30 table games, sports bar, and restaurant Events like the Vandergrift Improvement Program’s annual Artfest, Fort Ligonier’s annual Connon Ball, & Latrobe’s annual Banana Split Festival went virtual

Ribbon cutting at Live! Casino, Hempfield Township Source: Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce

Strategy 2.3

welcome everyone •

• •

•

Pittsburgh-based artists, D.S. and Anqwenique Kinsel, were the first to take residence at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art. The residency emphasizes the museum’s commitment to identify and support marginalized artists and artists of color Westmoreland Museum of American Art hosted a Virtual Pride Celebration Week, highlighting the talents of LGBTQ+ artists and performers through online programs Westmoreland Diversity Coalition, in partnership with the Westmoreland Museum of American Art, worked with ten artists to create original artwork for the Diversity Billboard Art Project around the theme “Make Our Differences Our Strengths'' Utilizing a $75,000 grant from the Richard King Mellon Foundation, Westmoreland Community Action kicked-off an initiative focused on making Westmoreland County more welcoming and inclusive

Diversity Billboard Art Project, artist Ginger Brooks Takahashi Source: https://makeourdifferencesourstrengths.com/billboards/

Strategy 2.4

Grow Local • • •

Ligonier Country Market landed in the top spot for the northeast region in a poll for America’s most essential farmers market Caffe Barista in downtown Greensburg announced plans to create the Caffe Barista Marketplace, an indoor, year-round, farmers market Local farms like Schneider, Turner, and Marburger dairies participated in the federal Farmers to Families Food Box Program, where $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy, and meat products were purchased from suppliers significantly affected by COVID-19

Ligonier Beach, Ligonier Township Source: Joseph, https://www.flickr.com/photos/josepha/9487693775

Strategy 2.5

Develop recreational destinations • •

R. K. Mellon Foundation awarded $500,000 to the Latrobe-GLSD Parks and Recreation Department for the development of the Latrobe Sports and Recreational Complex in Unity Township Ligonier Township was awarded a $42,500 PA DCNR grant to help renovate and redevelop the former Ligonier Beach landmark into a greenspace and natural area, creating a recreational destination

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Voodoo Brewery Source: Westmoreland County Planning

CORE OBJECTIVE 3: REPOSITION OUR TOWNS INVESTING IN DOWNTOWNS, ONE INFILL DEVELOPMENT AT A TIME Across Westmoreland County, investments are being made to help revitalize our communities in a variety of ways. A major area of focus for these investments is our downtowns. From the creation of craft breweries to the redevelopment of dilapidated buildings into restaurants and shops, businesses throughout the county are taking significant steps towards improving the areas in which we live.

One of these businesses is Allusion Brewing Company, located in Vandergrift. Allusion Brewing Company opened in October 2020 after months of delays caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Now up and running, the brewery is getting a great response from its customers and is contributing to the broader revitalization of Vandergrift.

In recent years, a range of businesses have begun to occupy storefronts around the borough. From breweries to wineries to boutique craft shops, these new businesses are transforming the feel of Vandergrift and injecting new energy into the area. “I think we are bringing excitement for the future of the community,” said Robert Buchanan, co-owner of Allusion Brewing Company.

Allusion Brewing Company, like many of the other new businesses in Vandergrift, attracts customers through its uniqueness. One thing that makes the brewery stand out when compared to others in the area is its décor. Designed to match the style of the time in which Vandergrift was founded, the building has many prohibition-era features throughout its interior. Buchanan says another thing that makes the brewery unique is the wide variety of beers that they brew. While some breweries specialize in brewing one kind of beer and are successful in doing so, Buchanan believes that one of Allusion Brewing Company’s greatest strengths is the extensive selection that they are able to offer.

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Allusion Brewing Company is helping to draw a range of new people into Vandergrift. Not only are locally-based visitors stopping by, but also those who live across state lines. Buchanan said that he has had customers come from Delaware, West Virginia, and Ohio to visit the brewery.

This influx of people is beneficial to the brewery itself, as well as to the other businesses in downtown Vandergrift. As more and more visit, the status of Vandergrift as a destination that people want to travel to and spend time in will continue to rise.

Another community that is being revitalized is New Kensington. A major contributor to this revitalization process is Olde Towne Overhaul, a development group led by Michael Malcanas. Over the past few years, Olde Towne Overhaul has acquired and transformed a number of formerly blighted buildings throughout New Kensington. More than fifteen buildings around the city including a deli, tattoo shop, ice cream shop, and several bakeries have either opened or are in the process of opening thanks to the work that Olde Towne Overhaul has done.

One of the first redevelopment projects that Olde Towne Overhaul took on was Voodoo Brewery, located in downtown New Kensington. Filling the former site of the Ritz Theater, the brewery offers food and an assortment of craft beers and is contributing to the excitement and energy around New Kensington. As interest builds, new people are drawn to the area, benefiting the community in a number of ways. “Bringing people to New Kensington that have never been here before completely changes everything for the city…it brings revenue, excitement, and employment,” said Michelle Thom, Operations Manager at Olde Towne Overhaul.

These kinds of investments in both Vandergrift and New Kensington are playing a significant role in helping to make Westmoreland County a destination. Redeveloping run-down and unused buildings helps to eliminate eyesores that diminish the perception of our towns while creating new assets that will draw people to the area for years to come.

Strategy Updates Strategy 3.1

Invest in downtowns • • • •

GCDC’s G-Fund and soft costs grant programs helped to incentive developers and support new and expanding businesses in the city Craft businesses like Allusion Brewing Co. in Vandergrift and Voodoo Brewery in New Kensington opened for business, filling in formerly vacant buildings in downtowns Eagle Scout projects such as the installation of flower pots and bike racks near the Westmoreland Heritage Trail helped enhance and revitalize downtown Export Borough Westmoreland County Land Bank acquired properties in downtowns such as Vandergrift and Mount Pleasant to support new development and commercial rehabilitation

Strategy Champions Westmoreland County Planning

Strategy 3.2

provide housing options • • •

•

Construction of the $18.2 million Pioneer Apartments in New Kensington was completed. The building provides downtown housing, a portion of which are subsidized and accessible for people with special needs Homes Build Hope announced plans to build a nine-unit affordable housing development on Mary Street in downtown Latrobe, filling in empty lots formerly home to blighted structures WCHA completed construction of the $13.1 million dollar, 47-unit, senior housing complex, Odin View Apartments, in Hempfield Township.

WCHA also announced plans to develop a 50-unit, $14.5 million, senior housing project, Grand View Senior Residences, in Irwin RACW invested $120,000 in the acquisition and transfer of properties in Latrobe, Hempfield, Greensburg, and Vandergrift to new homeowners and private rehabilitation investors. RACW also installed 10 chair ramps and 27 stairlifts in low-income households at a cost of $120,000

Allusion Brewing Co. grand opening, Vandergrift Source: James Kunkel, Saint Vincent College SBDC

Strategy 3.3

cultivate a restaurant industry • • • •

Station House 7, an event venue located in Delmont Borough, launched a weekly food truck event, drawing people to the borough and making use of an otherwise empty parking lot GCDC’s, Greensburg Restaurant Week, helped drive support for local restaurants, eateries, and other businesses Trafford-based restaurant, Olives & Peppers, opened in the historic downtown Greensburg Train Station after more than three years of vacancy Greensburg loosened its food truck regulations and also lifted restrictions on sidewalk and outdoor dining for bars and restaurants, helping to accommodate businesses amid pandemic restrictions

Food truck festival Source: Micheile Henderson, Unsplash

Strategy 3.4

utilize planning best practices • • • •

Latrobe announced plans to update its zoning ordinance by working with Pittsburgh-based nonprofit, Scenic Pittsburgh thanks to a $29,000 grant from the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation Youngwood Borough adopted a hybrid form-based zoning ordinance for the first time in over 30 years, thanks to assistance from Westmoreland County Planning’s TRAMS program Monessen, Rostraver Township, and Penn Township adopted new or updated comprehensive plans that are focused on topics such as economic development, revitalization, and improved housing options Greensburg updated its zoning ordinance in an effort to streamline its development process. The city also digitized its zoning map, thanks to assistance from Westmoreland County Planning’s TRAMS program

Conceptual vision, Town Center Zone, Youngwood Source: Youngwood Borough Zoning Ordinance

Strategy 3.5

Direct density • •

Phoenix-based developer, Urban Communities, announced plans to redevelop two vacant buildings in downtown Greensburg to create 99 “workforce” housing apartment units, after receiving a parking variance A $13 million adaptive reuse project, Morning Sun Lofts, was proposed by developer MVAH for the site of the former East Vandergrift School in East Vandergrift Borough. The project would provide 42 fully accessible units and use $300,000 affordable housing funds from the county

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No Mow Zone, Murrysville Source: Mark Jackson, Westmoreland Conservation District

CORE OBJECTIVE 4: CONNECT WITH PARKS AND NATURE PRIORITIZING A CONNECTION TO PARKS & NATURE - MUNICIPALITIES SET THE EXAMPLE The natural environment in Westmoreland County is abundant, with plenty of parks, open space, and more. These natural assets are enjoyed every day by both local residents and visitors. Because they are such valuable resources for the county, it is crucial that local governments take steps to ensure that they are protected, well maintained, and enhanced when possible.

One community that prioritizes the protection of the natural environment is the Municipality of Murrysville. Recently named the 2020 recipient of the J. Roy Houston Conservation Partnership Award by the Westmoreland Conservation District (WCD), Murrysville has a progressive approach to environmental preservation. To improve the management of stormwater, the municipality has upgraded more than a dozen detention ponds in the past few years. In addition, Murrysville has a requirement that all new parking lots are to be built with 50% permeable material, which allows for more water to be reabsorbed into the ground.

The municipality has two streams, Haymaker Run and Steele’s Run, that are designated as “high-quality” by the PA Department of Environmental Protection - a designation rarely placed on streams located in suburban communities. In an effort to preserve this quality, a “no mow” area and a riparian buffer of over 300 trees and shrubs were created in Murrysville Community Park along Steele’s Run in 2018 to filter out potential pollutants flowing into the stream.

One of the main reasons that Murrysville has been so successful in its conservation efforts is the commitment that both its residents and municipal officials have to environmental preservation. According to Jim Pillsbury, Hydraulic Engineer with WCD, “We think the key has really been one of attitude - the attitude among municipal leaders and staff and the residents, that they value the natural environment and work to protect it.” This mindset has been a driving force behind the proactive steps that Murrysville has taken.

Murrysville continues to collaborate with WCD, with the two currently working together on projects funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Growing Greener program.

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Another community that is taking steps to protect and improve its natural assets is the City of Greensburg. The city is currently in the process of renovating Spring Avenue Park, a 1.4-acre park located in Greensburg’s Fifth Ward that has experienced decline in recent years, resulting in reduced use among nearby residents over time. In an effort to reverse this trend and encourage the park to become a centerpiece of the surrounding neighborhood, Greensburg hopes to make it much more welcoming and accessible to residents.

To help with the design of the park’s renovations, the city hired Environmental Planning & Design (EPD), a landscape architecture and urban design firm based out of Pittsburgh. The renovation of the park will be split into two phases, design and construction. The project is currently in the initial stage of the design phase, which EPD says will be based around engaging the public in order to determine what kinds of changes to the park they would like to see.

As part of the effort to collect input from stakeholders, an online survey was circulated in the fall of 2020. Respondents were asked questions related to their familiarity with the park and what kinds of features they would want to be included in the redesign. With the collection of responses from the survey recently being completed, the next step in the design phase will be to develop conceptual plans that include park features chosen by city officials and the public. Following this, finalization of construction documents, bidding, and permitting will take place before the renovation begins.

Greensburg hopes that the redesigned park will have a transformative effect on the surrounding neighborhood and help bring the community together. Following the completion of the Spring Avenue Park project, Greensburg officials will begin to look at improving other parks in the city.

Strategy Updates Strategy 4.1

Enhance Trail Systems • • • •

Progress was made on a feasibility study for the “Middle Gap” portion of the Westmoreland Heritage Trail (WHT) between Export and Delmont.

Once completed, the WHT will span 22 miles from Trafford to Saltsburg Westmoreland County approved the lease for the Five Star Trail, renewing it for another 25 years. The new lease will allow officials to secure additional funding to make improvements along the 6-mile trail Greensburg announced plans to improve a portion of the Five Star Trail with a $389,000 project Westmoreland Conservation District (WCD) partnered with Sewickley Creek Watershed Association, Western PA Conservancy, and West Newton Borough to upgrade the West Newton public boat launch on the Youghiogheny River, across from the GAP trail

Strategy Champions Westmoreland County Bureau of Parks & Recreation Westmoreland Conservation District Westmoreland County Planning

Strategy 4.2

make parks welcoming & accessible • •

• • •

Conemaugh Valley Conservancy utilized grant funds to improve boat access to the Conemaugh River. Also improving access to the Conemaugh River, WCD assisted with a new boat launch in Bolivar Westmoreland County Bureau of Parks & Recreation modernized and improved the accessibility of public restrooms, parking, and walkways, and upgraded the playground equipment and signage at Cedar Creek, Twin Lakes, and Northmoreland parks Irwin Borough announced plans to reconstruct and resurface the walking path around Irwin Park to better meet the needs of active users Hempfield Township made progress on the rehabilitation project of Hempfield Park. The township also made progress on the conceptual plans for two newly proposed parks Unity Township announced plans to use CDBG funds to update playground equipment at the site outside of the township office to include handicap-accessible facilities

Kayak trip, Conemaugh River, Bolivar Source: Rob Cronauer, Westmoreland Conservation District

Strategy 4.3

Preserve Open space & protect natural assets •

• • • •

Western PA Conservancy purchased 173 acres of land in Ligonier Township, 20 acres of which will be available for public access to Mill Creek and the Laurel Highlands Trout Trail. The Conservancy also acquired 50 acres of land along the Route 30 Greenway Corridor in Ligonier Township and preserved nearly 30 acres of farmland in South Huntingdon MAWC announced plans to open up a 3,000-acre site around Beaver Run Reservoir, located in Bell Township, to deer hunters as a method of protecting tree growth and reservoir water quality Powdermill Nature Reserve, located in Cook Township, announced plans to construct a new Avian Research Center thanks to a $1 million R. K. Mellon Foundation grant Westmoreland Conservancy added 26 acres of protected natural area to the King Reserve in Murrysville Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania received a $1.2 million federal grant to help preserve Buffalo Creek Watershed

Cedar Creek Park playground, Rostraver Township Source: Westmoreland County Bureau of Parks & Recreation

Strategy 4.4

improve & sustain water resources •

• • • •

WCD assisted 12 municipalities adopt stormwater ordinances consistent with the county’s newly adopted IWRP. Over 40 municipalities are currently in the process of adopting consistent ordinances. WCD also launched an updated website, completed multiple Growing Greener grant projects to reduce erosion and runoff, and expanded its stormwater monitoring program Murrysville was named the 2020 recipient of the J. Roy Houston Conservation Partnership Award by WCD, thanks to its commitment to stormwater and erosion control work in recent years Ralph Frye family and their operation, Pleasant Lane Farms, located in Unity, was named the 2020 Conservation Farmer of the Year by WCD for their commitment to control erosion and protect local water Jacobs Creek Watershed Association led the cleanup of a section of Jacobs Creek as part of a regional effort to “sweep” trash out of waterways in the Ohio River Basin MAWC announced plans to upgrade a 50-year-old sewer plant in Avonmore Borough to increase the plant’s reliability during heavy rains, increase capacity, and modernize operations

Lowber Treatment System iron removal project, Sewickley Township Source: Rob Cronauer, Westmoreland Conservation District

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House Source: Jacques Bopp, Unsplash

CORE OBJECTIVE 5: BUILD HEALTHY AND WHOLE COMMUNITIES HEALTHY HOMES, HEALTHY LIVES - WESTMORELAND STRENGTHENS ITS HOUSING STOCK THROUGH NEW LEAD ABATEMENT PROGRAM The use of lead-based paint in homes was outlawed in 1978. With around

be made in the case of an emergency, such as a household that has a

70% of Westmoreland County’s housing stock built prior to that year,

child with elevated lead levels.

there are a significant number of residents that may be at risk of lead poisoning. Young children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning,

The grant money will be allocated to contractors in the area to enable

which can lead to irritability, abdominal pain, slowed mental and physical

the removal of lead and other health and safety hazards from homes. In

development, and more. Because of this, it is crucial that steps are taken

addition to limiting certain health risks faced by county residents, the pro-

to ensure that residents’ exposure to lead is limited as much as possible.

gram will also provide great work opportunities for local state-licensed abatement contractors and contractors who are training to obtain lead

In 2020, Westmoreland County secured $3 million to address lead-based

credentials. As more contractors gain experience in lead removal, the

paint hazards, along with an additional $400,000 for home-related

worker pool will increase, leading to a greater availability of specialists for

health and safety hazards. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing

lead abatement projects in the future.

and Urban Development’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes, the new county program will aim to eliminate lead hazards in

The new program has been praised by both county and state leaders.

142 housing units through a Lead Hazard Reduction Grant. Additionally,

Sean Kertes, Westmoreland County Commissioner and Chairman said

other household hazards such as mold and allergens will be addressed in

“This program serves to protect Westmoreland County children and

80 housing units through a Healthy Homes Grant.

families from the toxic effects of lead exposure in their homes. On behalf of my fellow board members, we are elated to support bringing this vital

As the risks of lead exposure are the greatest for children, the program

program to Westmoreland County.”

will be aimed at low-income households that have a young child spending significant time in the home. To qualify for the program, applicants

Support for the program was also voiced by Congressman Guy Reschen-

must have an annual household income of $67,000 or less. In addition to

thaler, who said “With this federal funding, the county can address the

this, the household must also have a child under the age of 6 that spends

dangers of lead exposure, particularly for young children in low-income

at least six hours per week in the home.

families, to improve the health outcomes for some of our most vulnerable residents.”

According to Janet Thomas, Deputy Director of the Westmoreland County Department of Planning and Development’s Community Devel-

The county plans to implement the program beginning in the summer

opment Division, households that apply will be selected to participate in

of 2021.

the program on a first-come, first-served basis. However, exceptions may

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Strategy Updates Strategy 5.1

Eliminate blight • • • •

Jeannette worked to address blight by creating a red X inventory of blighted structures and by removing a number of blighted structures RACW demolished 17 blighted structures throughout the county at a total cost of $172,000 and cleared and prepared parcels in Vandergrift for a new community garden, greenspace, and stormwater management Westmoreland County received $3.4 million in federal funds to create a new program, Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Reduction, which will remove lead-based paint and other hazards from low-income houses Greensburg partnered with Westmoreland County Planning through its TRAMS program to create a comprehensive inventory of blight, thanks to a $10,000 grant from the Realtors Association of Westmoreland, Indiana, and Mon Valley

Strategy Champions Excela Health Redevelopment Authority of Westmoreland County Westmoreland County Land Bank Westmoreland County Planning

Strategy 5.2

invest in beautification • • •

North Belle Vernon Borough completed a streetscape project along Broad Ave utilizing a multimodal grant of $150,000, to display stamped logos of former North Belle Vernon schools over major intersections Trafford Business Association hosted its annual series of beautification events known as “Power Wash and Paint Days,” engaging volunteers to improve public spaces and business facades around Trafford Borough The former Mailey’s Bakery building in downtown Latrobe received facade improvements thanks to assistance from the Latrobe Community Revitalization Program

Visitors on the Fred Rogers Trail, Latrobe Source: Latrobe Community Revitalization

Strategy 5.3

go green • • •

Westmoreland Cleanways and Recycling Center used part of a $20,000 grant from the R. K. Mellon Foundation to create videos explaining the organization’s recycling programs Delmont Borough completed construction on a new library building which incorporated a rainwater collection system and solar panels Hempfield Township officials announced plans to implement a solar farm fee, which replaces the need for costly commercial building permits, to encourage solar farm projects within the township

Strategy 5.4

bolster age-friendly communities & services •

Westmoreland Museum of American Art created a pen pal program, Postcards That Care, to connect people with seniors who may be isolated amid pandemic restrictions

Westmoreland Cleanways moves to its new facility, Unity Township Source: Rob Cronauer, Westmoreland Conservation District

Strategy 5.5

get healthy • •

Construction began on the new UPMC St. Margaret New Kensington Family Health Center which will improve access to health care Excela Health was recognized as one of the Healthiest Employers in Western PA, by prioritizing the well-being of their employees through a commitment to workplace wellness and exceptional benefits offerings

Strategy 5.6

address fragmentation •

• •

Remaking Our Westmoreland - A Plan for the Alle-Kiski District, the county's first sub-regional plan, was completed. The plan identifies the land use, mobility, and intergovernmental priorities specific to the Alle-Kiski Planning District. The effort will continue with the Alle-Kiski Intergovernmental Council The Planning District process will continue on to the central District Allegheny Township announced plans to consider merging with West Leechburg Borough which could help avoid growing tax hikes

Millennium Park, Smithton Source: Jennifer Perry, Smithton Borough

Strategy 5.7

create a design “playbook” •

Westmoreland County Planning made progress on the development of a design “playbook,” utilizing SmartCode principles

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Zoom call Source: Chris Montgomery, Unsplash

CORE OBJECTIVE 6: PLUG INTO THE NEW ECONOMY PRIORITIZING BROADBAND CAPACITY FOR A BETTER CONNECTED COUNTY AND REGION With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, our lives were significantly altered in a number of ways. As in-person appointments, instruction, and business quickly began to threaten public health and safety, entire institutions and industries had to scramble to respond. Many of us were faced with having to adapt and overcome the challenges related to working, learning, teaching, and even socializing from home with the shelter-inplace order. The reality of having to shift our lives into our homes and online shed a harsh light on the digital divide that exists not only in Westmoreland County, but in communities across the U.S., and emphasized the critical importance of broadband infrastructure and access.

Across the U.S., it is estimated that roughly 44 million households do not have a standard broadband connection due to a lack of access or affordability. In response to this, closing the digital divide through expanded and enhanced technology infrastructure was identified as one of the top objectives outlined in the county’s comprehensive plan, Reimagining Our Westmoreland.

As a first step to understanding and addressing these needs, Westmoreland County joined forces with seven other counties to participate in a regional broadband feasibility study, led by Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission, to assess current broadband needs and assets. The study, which was completed in 2020, indicated that Westmoreland County has large areas designated as “unserved” in the northern and southeastern parts of the county, with smaller areas throughout. Based on survey data collected, it’s clear that Westmoreland County residents and businesses are anxious for better internet service.

The study found that 83% of county respondents are interested in faster and more reliable internet service and that 91% believe local government should help facilitate better internet access.

In response to the study’s findings and to growing concerns over the health crisis, Westmoreland County provided a $145,000 grant, funded by the federal CARES Act, to the Westmoreland County Federated Library System to install internet hotspots at 22 of the county’s 25 public libraries. The project expanded the range of Wi-Fi service with signals reaching up to 328 feet, about the length of a football field, which more than tripled the existing library Wi-Fi networks.

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“Expanding Wi-Fi service at our county’s public libraries was one way to provide some immediate relief to those in need,” said County Commissioner, Vice-Chairman, Doug Chew. “This is a first-step towards bringing broadband to more locations in Westmoreland County.”

With the upgrades, the libraries now offer users increased flexibility for social distancing while connected. The Wi-Fi service enables the public to connect to the network from library parking lots via smartphones, tablets, or laptops by entering their library card number or ZIP code.

According to Cesare Muccari, Executive Director of the Westmoreland County Federated Library System, “This project was the second phase of a larger initiative to update technology infrastructure and install fiber-optic internet at our libraries. Despite the disruptions caused by COVID-19, Westmoreland County’s public libraries remain committed to providing stellar library services to residents.”

The Library Network’s expanded Wi-Fi hotspot project is just one way the digital divide is being tackled in Westmoreland County. Meta Mesh Wireless Communities, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit, piloted free, wireless, high-speed internet service to 150 households in New Kensington and Arnold. The effort called “Every1online” is thanks to a partnership between Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State New Kensington, and the Keystone Initiative for Network-based Research.

Additionally, more than $1.3 million funds will be used to expand broadband to homes and businesses at nearly 1,400 locations in the county over the next 10 years. The broadband expansion effort is possible through the first phase of the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. The fund is a Federal Communications Commission program aimed at closing the digital divide in the U.S. by committing billions of dollars to construct broadband networks in rural areas.

As the county continues to make informed decisions about increasing broadband capacity, leaders hope it might also help to boost Westmoreland County’s population. “If we continue to make progress and move forward with broadband infrastructure in the county, I think we have a real chance at attracting people who may be moving away from more densely populated places,” Chew said. “With more people working from home, there’s an opportunity to market the county to those leaving larger cities to go to more rural or suburban places such as those we offer here in Westmoreland County.”

Strategy Updates Strategy 6.1

Develop Broadband Capacity •

• • •

•

Westmoreland County, along with seven other neighboring counties, participated in a regional broadband feasibility study to assess current broadband needs and assets. The effort identified fixed point wireless broadband as an important strategy for improving service as well as the development of public/private partnerships to make targeted investments in basic broadband infrastructure such as towers and dark fiber Westmoreland County provided a $145,000 grant to the Westmoreland County Federated Library System to install internet hotspots at 22 of the county’s 25 public libraries, more than tripling their reach Pittsburgh-based nonprofit, Meta Mesh Wireless Communities, piloted free, wireless, high-speed internet service to 150 households in New Kensington and Arnold in an effort called “Every1online” R. K. Mellon Foundation’s Economic Impact and Recovery Initiative, along with Carnegie Mellon staff, created Wi-Fi “bubbles” which brought lowcost internet service to families in the New Kensington-Arnold School District area and Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood The FCC announced that more than $1.3 million funds will be used to expand broadband for homes and businesses at 1,388 locations in Westmoreland County over the next 10 years, thanks to the first phase of the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund

Strategy Champions Economic Growth Connection Greenforge Inc. Penn State New Kensington Westmoreland County Planning

Strategy 6.2

integrate new technologies •

• • •

Students at Greensburg Salem Middle School, Westmoreland IU, and Norwin High School utilized technology such as 3D printers to print masks and face shields for frontline workers and used coding skills to bridge gaps between frontline workers and mask makers The R. K. Mellon Foundation provided a $200,000 grant to the Westmoreland IU to enhance virtual learning for children and their families amid pandemic restrictions ATI announced plans to invest between $65 million to $85 million into its Vandergrift facility, converting its operations from standard stainless steel sheet products to specialty rolled products Murrysville-based company, Software Design Solutions, announced plans to assist Pittsburgh-based tech company, Atrobotic, test the Peregrine Lunar Lander’s system controls before it launches to the moon in 2021

Learning from home Source: Annie Spratt, Unsplash

Strategy 6.3

invest in industry 4.0 •

•

PSNK hosted the digital “groundbreaking” of the Digital Foundry at New Kensington utilizing an augmented reality digital twin on the site of the future foundry with the help of Carnegie Mellon University. Construction on the lab, which will help connect the region to Industry 4.0 technology, is planned to begin in 2021 East Huntingdon-based 3D printing company, Tronix3D, received hightech upgrades from the U.S. Army which equipped its machines with cloud-connected sensors that will allow the company to collect and share data about its manufacturing processes to promote security and consistency of products

COVID-19 3D printed facemasks sign Source: Red Dot, Unsplash

Strategy 6.4

embrace hemp •

NO UPDATE for 2020

Virtual groundbreaking for the Digital Foundry, New Kensington Source: Rebecca Dietrich

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Bike lane Source: Sahin Sezer, Unsplash

CORE OBJECTIVE 7: CREATE TRANSPORTATION CHOICES TWO COMMUNITIES, ONE PLAN, WORKING TO CREATE WALKING AND BIKING OPTIONS MORE ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL Walking, biking, traveling by wheelchair, canoeing, or kayaking - these are the kinds of self-propelled modes of active transportation that leaders in Smithton and Scottdale Boroughs have worked to prioritize over the last year. Culminating their work with the creation of the Smithton-Scottdale Active Transportation Plan, these communities hope to use the plan as a guide to improve existing bicycle and pedestrian trails and routes and to install “Trail Town” amenities like information kiosks, rest areas, and public restrooms, ultimately making their places safer and better connected for visitors and residents alike.

Although 11-miles apart, the two boroughs looked to their common assets such as a close proximity to the Youghiogheny River, Jacobs Creek, Great Allegheny Passage, and Coal & Coke Trail and used their shared interest in improving the active transportation network between and within both of their communities to drive the effort. The project was funded by a $25,000 grant from the PA WalkWorks Program, which is a collaboration between the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, and was led by the Smart Growth Partnership of Westmoreland County with assistance from Penn State Extension.

“When we started this project, I couldn’t fully imagine how we would use all of this information,” said Karen Primm, Smithton Borough council member. “But I am so impressed by this document - it has really turned out to be way more than expected. I know we are going to be able to use it for funding and to guide us as we continue to revitalize our town.”

She continued, “What I’m most excited about is the potential of having more foot traffic in Smithton and for people to be able to better enjoy the assets of our little town.”

The first-of-its-kind plan in the county establishes five priority areas with corresponding strategies for each community around wayfinding, biking and walking enhancements, connectivity, community enhancements, and outreach. One thing leaders in both of the communities hope the plan will help provide are opportunities for valuable economic development and investment.

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“When you realize that the people out there on the GAP trail are spending money at shops, restaurants, and other businesses along the way that ends up being a huge economic boost,” said Andy Pinskey, Scottdale Borough council member. “There’s potential for that in Scottdale. People could ride down the trail, get something to eat, and/or watch a play at the local theatre. Not only do these assets draw people into Scottdale, but it draws them into Westmoreland County.”

Also motivated by their desire to better and more safely connect all people to destinations within and between the communities, the boroughs sought to develop and adopt Complete Streets policies that accompany the active transportation plan. Complete Streets, according to the National Complete Streets Coalition, are streets for everyone - they make it easy to cross the street, walk to shops, jobs, and schools, bicycle to work, and move actively with assistive devices. The policies serve as a formal commitment that all future transportation projects will prioritize the safety of the most vulnerable people who use the street.

According to John Turack, Executive Director of Smart Growth Partnership, “The communities in the southern part of the county have so many great assets and there’s so much potential to build off of. I hope this plan, and the priorities and actions within, will be an example to other municipalities to replicate.” He continued, “I hope that other communities can see this plan and take a look at their trails, sidewalks, and other active transportation facilities and consider ways they can make better connections and improvements.”

The Smithton-Scottdale Active Transportation Plan and Complete Streets policies were adopted by both municipalities in December 2020.

Strategy Updates Strategy 7.1

enhance transit, increase ridership, & promote transit oriented development •

WCTA completed upgrades to the North Huntingdon park-and-ride which increased the number of parking spots, improved lighting, and installed a large enclosed shelter for waiting passengers. WCTA also extended its hours, for a period of time, to boost ridership amid pandemic restrictions

Strategy Champions Westmoreland County Airport Authority Westmoreland County Transit Authority Westmoreland County Planning

Strategy 7.2

create mobility plans •

• •

Section 1 of the Laurel Valley Transportation Improvement Project (LVTIP), located entirely in Mount Pleasant Township, moved into the final design phase. Construction of the 4.5 miles of Section 1 is planned to begin in 2021. Section 3 of the LVTIP in Unity Township is in the preliminary design phase Construction on a $ 2.4 million PennDOT adaptive traffic signal project along 3 miles of Route 30 in Hempfield Township began. The project will adjust 11 traffic signals to improve traffic flow Spawning from Youngwood Borough’s comprehensive plan process, and in collaboration between Westmoreland County Planning, the borough, PennDOT, and design consultant Stantec, the $23.8 million reconstruction of US 119 began. The project aims to improve safety and increase multimodal connectivity throughout the corridor

Westmoreland Transit bus Source: Jarrett Stewart, https://www.flickr.com/photos/m877/8686959262/

Strategy 7.3

increase walkability & biking options • • •

Smithton and Scottdale Boroughs developed an active transportation plan and Complete Streets policies to help make walking, biking, and other modes of transportation safer, easier, and more accessible for all Latrobe announced plans to update traffic signals and curb ramps to improve traffic flow, ADA accessibility, and pedestrian safety Penn Township announced plans to utilize a $325,000 grant from PennDOT to replace an obsolete traffic light at the intersection of Route 130 and Route 993 and to include safety features for pedestrians

Strategy 7.4

increase flight options •

Arnold Palmer Regional Airport completed both indoor and outdoor upgrades including the strengthening and widening of the runway, addition of terminal seating and terminal reconfiguration, and a parking lot expansion. The upgrades have positioned the airport to withstand heavier aircraft, more frequent flights, and opens the airport up to the possibility of cargo with the expanded commercial capacity

Arnold Palmer Regional Airport progress, Unity Township Source: Westmoreland County Airport Authority

Strategy 7.5

improve passenger rail service • •

PennDOT gathered feedback to update the PA State Rail Plan that will identify possible freight and passenger rail investments into 2045 Amtrak announced plans to consider adding a second Pittsburgh-to-Harrisburg daily round-trip train beginning in 2023

Strategy 7.6

augment ridesharing options •

NO UPDATE for 2020

Strategy 7.7

Amtrak train Source: Johannes Krupinski, Unsplash

focus on freight • •

A 4-mile section of freightline in Hempfield Township was rehabilitated with $2.3 million. The upgrades, which included newly welded rails, will allow train speeds to increase along this section in 2021 As part of the $750 million series of I-70 projects from Washington to New Stanton, PennDOT is making progress on the $66.8 million reconstruction of the SR 31 interchange, and the $92.8 million reconstruction of the Yukon and Madison interchanges

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Twin Lakes Park, Unity Township Source: GO Laurel Highlands

conclusion Despite the challenges that this past year presented, the accomplishments outlined in this report are evidence of the immense progress we collectively made towards reaching the plan’s goal set back in 2018, to attract, develop, and retain a diverse and stable workforce that will sustain a healthy economy. This compilation of updates provides only a brief glimpse of the work that is being done across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Thank you to all of our partners for helping to remake our Westmoreland!

To all of the municipal and community leaders, we applaud you for your resiliency and resourcefulness in figuring out ways to maintain day-to-day operations, all while continuing to plan for the future of your communities. It takes immense courage and commitment to consistently respond to arising challenges, however big or small they may be, and remain resilient.

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We thank you all for taking the time to have some gratitude for the bright spots of 2020. There’s still plenty of work ahead of us to do and we look forward to an even brighter and more productive 2021!

If you would like to assist in our efforts, please contact us at wcplanning@co.westmoreland.pa.us.

Westmoreland County Department of Planning & Development Reimagining our westmoreland 40 North Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 520 Greensburg, PA 15601 Phone: (724) 830-3600 Fax: (724) 830-3611 Email: wcplanning@co.westmoreland.pa.us www.co.westmoreland.pa.us/planning