Volume 31 No. 6
June 2015
Site of former Allegheny Center Mall to undergo major modern makeover, serve as technology business hub
Councilwoman Darlene Harris wins primary By Justin Criado Long-time councilwoman and incumbent, Darlene Harris, 62, of Spring Hill, won the Pittsburgh City Council District 1 primary May 19 with about 47 percent of the votes and 98 percent of precincts reporting. “The people of the North-
Photo courtesy of Faros Properties
An aerial view of recently announced Nova Place, which will feature a tech incubator, office spaces and retail locations. New York-based Faros Properties announced the purchase in March. By Justin Criado Faros Properties announced its renovation and rebranding plans for the former Allegheny Center Mall Thursday, May 21 during a press conference inside the current office complex. Renamed Nova Place, the building will be a campus of sorts for tech companies and other businesses, while offering various shops and restaurants. “This facility will become the hub of technology and innovation,” Jeremy Leventhal, Faros managing partner, said. “We’re hoping that Nova Place becomes a beacon of innovation and a cata-
lyst of entrepreneurship. This project is about building community.” Faros bought the four apartment buildings that are now Parkview Apartments in Allegheny Center last year, and announced the purchase of the 1.2 million-square-foot office and parking complex in March. “It’s not just an investment it’s a belief in where Pittsburgh is going,” Mayor Bill Peduto said. “This building is symbolic of that. For decades this building has stood as a wall; a wall between the central business district and the community that’s around it. “Today we’re here with a
new vision. It will be a partnership between this city, this county and corporate community to see that happen.” The announcement also brought news that Innovation Works, a non-profit tech investment company, will move its headquarters to Nova Place after the renovation is complete within the next 12-24 months. “The plans for our new home will offer us the opportunity to enhance our entrepreneurial programs with the ability to host educational and networking events, help reclaim the promise of this See Makeover, Page 10
See Primary, Page 12