South Fayette Connect - Fall 2023 - Volume 8, Issue 4

SOUTH FAYETTE

FALL 2023 ◆ VOLUME 8, ISSUE 4 ◆ FREE THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP

CONNECT

Community Day Moments 42 Officer's Best Buddy 32

Friends at the Bend 20

House with a Horse 36

CONTENTS

FALL 2023

At the Front Manager's Message.................................................................................................................. 1 South Fayette Shorts................................................................................................................2 Ask Abbey: What is the top cause of home fires?..................................................... 3

Inside Chuck Miller, left, and his niece Rebecca Kelly reopened Oasis Restaurant in South Fayette, continuing a 90-year family tradition. Photo by Andrea Iglar.

Meet Riley Supan........................................................................................................................3 Neighborhood Spotlight: The Villas of Wood Creek................................................. 4–5 Code Corner: Park Rules........................................................................................................ 6–7 Around the Township................................................................................................................ 16–21 Business..........................................................................................................................................22–26

News & Features Automated trash collection set for next year .............................................................. 8 Free garbage carts will be provided to households in South Fayette.

Nonprofit aims to conserve land in South Fayette.................................................... 10–11 Allegheny Land Trust seeks donations to protect 141 acres near the Panhandle Trail.

Location and amenities key to success of Abele Business Park........................ 28–31 The largest office campus in South Fayette offers tenant-focused services.

German shepherd O'Neil joins police department.................................................... 32–35 The K-9 works alongside Officer Alex Korkus in South Fayette.

Trigger the Wandering Horse causes a sensation..................................................... 36–39 The fake horse brings real joy to adults and children in South Fayette.

22 On the Cover South Fayette high schoolers Sarayu CM, left, Shreya Duraisamy, Rashmita Chekka, Sruthi Sundaram and Oviya Saminathan enjoy a laugh at South Fayette Community Day in August. Photo by Josh Milteer.

Photo Features Public Works: Old Pond Road.............. 12–13 South Fayette Community Day............ 42–43 Concert in the Park.................................... 44 Touch-a-Truck............................................... 45

Happenings Library Programs & News...................... 40–41 Joy-Thru Fairview........................................ 46 Parks & Recreation Programs.............. 47 TV & Electronics Recycling................... 49

42

Manager's Message JOHN M. BARRETT

A

utumn is my favorite time of year, and it has nothing to do with football season.

Western Pennsylvania truly shines in the fall, especially when a golden sun amplifies the red, orange and yellow of changing leaves against a blue sky.

This fall, as we count our blessings and express our thanks to neighbors, friends and family, let’s also appreciate the natural environment and vibrant landscape of the community.

This issue of South Fayette Connect covers the efforts of the nonprofit Allegheny Land Trust to protect area woodlands and the local watershed (p. 10).

The Panhandle Greenway Conservation Project aims to conserve 141 acres of land near the Panhandle Trail in South Fayette that will connect to various other conserved lands, such as Preservation Park, Boys Home Park and the Boys Home Farm Preserve.

We are proud to support this and similar projects to preserve natural spaces in the township.

Recently I took a walk along the Panhandle Trail and was struck by the vivid tapestry of nature. Whether you stroll on the path around Preservation Park, take a bike ride on the trail or walk your dog in Bark Park at Fairview Park, I encourage you to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the season as well.

While we're at it, let's enjoy some football, too.

Sponsor Advertisements ◆ Thank you!

Green

Gold

Gibson-Thomas Engineering...................... 9

Xtreme Car & Truck Accessories.............. 13

Kimmel Bogrette Architecture................... 14

South Fayette Sunoco.................................... 13

DiMarco Construction Company.............. 15

Colussy Chevrolet............................................ 16

Burns Scalo Real Estate................................ 27

Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care............ 16

Dollar Bank.......................................................... 48

Schulz Service Center.................................... 17

Emerald Goldberg, Kamin & Garvin.......................... 21

Platinum

Sohn Orthodontics........................................... 17 Bedner's Farm & Greenhouse................... 18 Visionary Federal Credit Union................. 18 Be Local Network............................................. 19

Pittsburgh Regional Transit......................... 44

Country Meadows............................................ 19

St. Clair Health................................................... 45

Jackie von Thun, Realty ONE Group....... 22

Diamond HRG......................................................................... 7

Hennecke Group............................................... 23 Embroidery PGH............................................... 23

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Gwen A. Rodi, President Rebecca Sray, Vice President Keith Dernosek Joseph Horowitz Lisa Malosh

TOWNSHIP MANAGER John M. Barrett

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrea Iglar

ART DIRECTOR Andrea Iglar

GRAPHIC DESIGN Andrea Iglar Paula Willis Kristen Bagwell

CONTRIBUTORS Abbey Scheerer Daniel Thompson Photography Josh Milteer Photography

ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE South Fayette Connect is a free magazine published and distributed quarterly by South Fayette Township for the benefit of its citizens.

The magazine is a nonprofit source of public and local government information aimed at building a strong sense of community identity and pride.

If your delivery is missed, please inform your postal carrier. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the editor. © Copyright 2023. All rights reserved.

ADVERTISING South Fayette Connect offers advertisements in exchange for sponsorship of certain community events and programs. Contact the magazine editor or visit SouthFayettePA.com/ads.

PRINTING Knepper Press

CONNECT WITH US

SouthFayettePA.com/magazine magazine@sftwp.com; 412-221-8700, ext. 231 South Fayette Township, Allegheny County PA

McDonald's South Fayette........................... 11 Silhol Builders Supply Company.............. 12 Alpha Residential.............................................. 24 John Kosky Contracting................................ 25 Kiddie Academy of South Fayette............ 25

Scan QR Code with smartphone camera for instant website access

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 1

South Fayette

SHORTS

Leaf collections set Curbside leaf collection will be held Saturdays Nov. 11 and Dec. 2 in South Fayette. The night before pickup, place leaves and other yard waste at the curb in biodegradable paper bags no heavier than 25 pounds each. Yard waste may include leaves, hedge/tree/garden trimmings, brush, lawn edging and grass clippings.

Prepare now for snow season

Cash and credit cards are accepted.

South Fayette Township Public Works recommends preparing now for snow plowing season. Prior to winter, trim back overgrown trees and vegetation so they don't hang into the road. Remove items like basketball hoops that block or hang above the road.

Move your mailbox if it extends over the edge of the road, and repair your mailbox or post, if needed, so it can withstand the force of snow being pushed aside.

Details: southfayettepa.com/snow.

Bloodhound Ellie shirts and hoodies also are available.

Spring sport sign-ups coming up

Police dog shirts available T-shirts and hoodies featuring an emblem of O'Neil, the South Fayette Township Police Department's German Shepherd K-9, are available for sale.

Stop by the police station during regular business hours, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, to purchase a T-shirt ($20; gray, tan or blue) or hoodie ($35; dark green) in adult sizes small to 3X.

Proceeds benefit the police department's K-9 unit fund.

Car accidents decrease by 7.5% Traffic accidents decreased in South Fayette in the year since a dedicated traffic unit took effect in the South Fayette Township Police Department.

From August 2022 to August 2023, the traffic officers stopped more than 2,800 vehicles, and during that time, the township saw 7.5% fewer accidents than the prior 12 months.

Registrations will occur this fall and winter for the spring seasons of community youth lacrosse, soccer and baseball/softball. Contact each athletic association directly for details: southfayettepa.com/athletics.

Glass collections exceed 8 tons Pennsylvania Resources Council collected 8.31 tons of glass in South Fayette during two recycling events in May and September.

TV and electronics recycling set for Jan. 13 at farmers market More than 77 tons of televisions and electronics were collected for recycling at Boys Home Park in July (pictured). South Fayette Township will hold another collection Sat. Jan. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Original Farmers Market, 151 Parks Road, in South Fayette. Details: page 49.

Report trash and recycling misses online Did you put out your trash or recycling on time, but crews missed the pickup?

Report a missed collection any time at southfayettepa.com/request, and Waste Management will be automatically notified. Please be sure to leave your bins at the curb until crews can return and empty them.

Morgan Park updates under way Improvements are under way at Morgan Park. The existing concession stand has been demolished, and a new pavilion with a concession stand and restrooms will be installed. Additional portable restrooms have been placed for temporary use. Please use caution around the construction zone and comply with off-limit areas.

Get news by email or text Be the first to know! Sign up for township news, events, meeting agendas, traffic alerts, job postings and more: southfayettepa.com/notifyme.

Fresh coat on the courts Workers from contractor A.G. Bevec, Inc. of Canonsburg resurfaced and painted two courts at Morgan Park in September.

The playing areas accommodate multiple sports. There is one basketball court and one tennis court. Both courts also are lined for two pickleball courts each, for a total of four. Bring your own net and equipment for pickleball.

Tennis and basketball courts also are available at Fairview Park.

—Photo & text by Andrea Iglar 2|

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Meet

Ask Abbey

What is the top cause of home fires?

Cooking leads to the most fires and fire-related injuries in the home.

You can follow a few safety tips to prevent kitchen fires: fpw.org.

S

tand by your pan! Unattended cooking is the top cause of fires in the kitchen. And overall, cooking fires are the No. 1 cause of fires and fire-related injuries at home.

• Stay alert. If you're tired or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove.

• Remain in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period, be sure to turn off the stove.

• If you are simmering, baking or roasting, check the food regularly, remain at home while food is cooking and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

• Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop—for example, oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, curtains and long sleeves.

• Clean the stovetop, oven and burners.

• Have a kid-free and pet-free zone of at least 3 feet around the stove.

A

fter five summers cutting grass for South Fayette Public Works, Riley Supan joined the township full-time in January. As part of the Parks and Facilities Division, he contributes to the upkeep of buildings, grounds and amenities. "Everyone is good to me, and I enjoy the atmosphere," he says. "I'm always learning."

Hometown: South Fayette Family: Parents Kelli and Bill; older brothers BJ and Cory; fiancee Ashley Pets: Yellow Labrador retrievers Dagwood & Luna; betta fish Hades

Those messages are from the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association, which marked Fire Prevention Week in October with a campaign about cooking safety. These tips can help prevent cooking fires: Always cook with caution.

RILEY SUPAN

If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight the fire…

Education: Graduated from South Fayette High School in 2019; earned associate degree in fire science administration from CCAC; attending Point Park University online for bachelor's in public administration

• On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

Activities: Firefighter for nine years at Oak Ridge Volunteer Fire Department

• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

First Job: Mowing lawns

• Never pour water on a grease fire.

If you have any doubt about fighting a small kitchen fire…

• Just get out. Close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

• Call 911 from outside the home.

Learn more at fpw.org or contact your fire department: southfayettepa.com/fire.

Abbey Scheerer is an administrative assistant with South Fayette Township.

Hobbies: Fishing, going to drive-in movies, hanging with his "fire hall family"

First Car: 2003 yellow Nissan Frontier supercharged pickup truck Favorite Movies: "Star Wars" trilogy and "The Monuments Men" Favorite Food: Grilled Spam and cheddar Bucket List: Visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras Best Quality of South Fayette: "When push comes to shove, we are all there for each other."

Fun Fact: All Supan siblings have worked or interned at the township, and their father is the Oak Ridge fire chief.

— Andrea Iglar South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 3

South Fayette

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

The Villas of Wood Creek

Management Company: Community Management Advisors, Inc.

Neighborhood offers social activities and low-maintenance homes

Years Built: 1997–2002

Patio homes, townhouses draw residents to The Villas of Wood Creek

HOA Top Issues of Interest: Community involvement, parking, stormwater Location: Along Hickory Grade Road, with a portion bordering the 7th hole of Hickory Heights Golf Club Streets: Belle Terre Court, Caledonia Court, Oyster Bay Court Private Amenities: Clubhouse, swimming pool, gazebo, guest parking lots, walking trail Fun Fact: The Villas of Wood Creek is not directly associated with the adjacent single-family plan Wood Creek, which was built from 1993 to 2001. However, Ryan Homes built both neighborhoods.

Patio homes SouthFayettePA.com

South Fayette CitizenLink

On a Tuesday afternoon in September, bedrooms and two bathrooms, an equipped Mary Ann Leonard watered her plants, kitchen, a 1- or 2-car garage and, of course, Lynn Foley walked her dog and Francine a patio. Some people convert an upstairs Gallina taught her neighbors how to play loft into another bedroom. bridge.

The townhouses tend to include The Villas of families with s in a patio home. e Wood Creek was more children, workingv i l li n active than other age adults and those h g neighborhoods for wanting to minimize daytime on a weekday, external home perhaps because many maintenance, some of the residents are of which is covered retired. by homeowner Plus, the South association fees.

Fayette neighborhood Townhouse is designed for resident Leo communal living.

Wisniewski downsized A clubhouse and from a single-family swimming pool home in nearby Wood form a hub to meet Creek 11 years ago. and socialize, while “We were ready attached patio homes and townhouses offer for townhouse living where they take care a neighborly feel. of landscaping and grass cutting and all that A resident named Karin said she chose stuff,” he said. to live in a patio home 10 years ago because Common property starts 6 feet from she didn’t want steps. She also enjoys the each home, but residents such as Leonard social activities and camaraderie. have the opportunity to add plants and “We’re mostly all seniors, so we take flowers with approval from the association. care of each other,” she said.

“If you put the landscaping in, you have The patio homes, arranged into 4-unit to take care of it,” she said, sprinkling her buildings called quads, offer single-level plants with a garden hose. living with the main bedroom on the A resident for six years, Leonard served ground floor. on the garden committee, a group that Each patio home generally includes two waters, weeds and trims common garden

u

Builder: Ryan Homes

Story & photos by Andrea Iglar

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Home Types: 58 townhouses and 124 patio homes (grouped into 31 fourplex buildings, or quads)

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Number of Homes: 182

Jo a n n

Homeowner Association: The Villas of Wood Creek HOA

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Living

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▲ Lonnie Jantsch, left, Francine Gallina, Julie Ghetian and Susan Poore practice bridge in the clubhouse. beds.

Other committees exist to welcome new residents, rent the clubhouse, operate the pool (from Memorial Day to Labor Day), approve homeowner requests and organize social functions.

Retired event planner Aggie Lewis heads the social committee, which holds a monthly coffee gathering, a spring soup and salad meal, a summer cookout, food truck nights, an ice cream social, an Oktoberfest celebration and a Christmas party.

Clubs meet to play cards, discuss books and go out to lunch.

Gallina, a retired English teacher, teaches bridge at the clubhouse twice a week: “I retired and the year after, I went on five trips, and I said, ‘You’ve got to do something else.’”

She has been showing neighbors how to play the card game since 2005.

Joanne McLaughlin, a board member of the homeowner association, moved to the neighborhood after her husband died, drawn by the

communal atmosphere.

She said the social events, centered on the clubhouse, help encourage retired and widowed residents to participate in activities outside their homes.

“We’re very social,” she said.

“It’s nice for the new residents too because they get to meet people.”

While living in a patio home tends to be less expensive than a single-family house, the homeowner group assesses fees to pay for communal maintenance such as lawn mowing, leaf blowing and some snow removal.

Roof, gutter and downspout maintenance is covered for the patio homes.

Over the past few years, the homeowner association has been replacing roofs on the 31 quad buildings.

The association also has treated, removed and fertilized trees, and the group and has worked with nearby Hickory Heights Golf Club to repair a stormwater issue at their common property line.

“We’re proud of that,” McLaughlin said.

▲ Residents of The Villas of Wood Creek enjoy a clubhouse and swimming pool. ▼ Mary Ann Leonard, left, waters plants outside her patio home on Belle Terre Court. Lynn Foley, right, walks her dog, Maggie, near the townhouses on Oyster Bay Court.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 5

South Fayette CODE CORNER

'Safe and enjoyable for everyone' Rules updated for busy township parks

▶ A splash pad in Fairview Park is expected to open in summer 2024.

Regulations added for dog park, splash pad, large events and more

By Andrea Iglar Increased park use and new facilities were the driving forces behind updating the park rules this year in South Fayette Township.

In June, the Board of Commissioners adopted an ordinance adding rules for new amenities in Fairview Park—the wooded, fenced Bark Park that opened for off-leash dogs in May, and the splash pad that is under construction on the Mayview site.

The splash pad is a water feature expected to open next summer, along with the new Mayview Pavilion, which will accommodate 200 people.

Language also was added to govern large events, manage rentals and regulate drones.

Parks and Recreation Director Paula Willis said the rules help protect people and property as park use grows.

“The parks have gotten so much more crowded and busy, and people are using them in so many different ways,” she said. “The rules set expectations to ensure the parks are safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

Dogs The updated regulations eliminate the previous off-leash zone on the hill in Fairview Park and establish rules for the 5-acre Bark Park—the only spot where dogs are allowed off leash in any township park.

Bark Park is available free of charge, and no permit is required.

The dog park features trails and woods, and it is subtly fenced for safety. Hours generally are dawn to dusk.

Highlights of Bark Park rules include: •

The area is for dogs and their owners/handlers only.

•

No children under 16 are allowed without adult supervision.

Small children must be within arm’s reach.

•

Dogs must be properly licensed, tagged and inoculated.

•

No dog that is vicious or aggressive, or has previously bitten any person, is allowed.

•

Dogs in heat and puppies under six months are prohibited.

•

Owners must closely supervise and control their dogs.

•

Three dogs per handler is the maximum allowed.

•

Owners are 100% responsible for any injuries suffered or inflicted by their pet. The township is not liable for any injuries to dogs or people.

•

Handlers must clean up after pets and properly dispose of waste.

•

The township may close Bark Park at any time.

When entering or exiting Bark Park, unleash or leash dogs inside the double-gated holding area, not inside the Bark Park. Leashes must remain visible and handy inside the dog park.

Outside of Bark Park, dogs must be leashed at all times in every area of every park. In addition: •

Maximum permitted leash length is 12 feet.

•

Dogs are not allowed on any athletic field, sports court, playground or splash pad.

•

Owners must clean up and dispose of animal waste.

Splash Pad A splash pad—a recreational feature for water play, with no standing water—is under construction in Fairview Park and expected to open in summer 2024.

The facility will not have a lifeguard. Once open, hours generally will be 10 AM to 9 PM daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The splash pad will be available to the general public at no charge.

These regulations, among others, will apply: •

Kids under 12 must be supervised by adult

•

Children not toilet trained must wear swim diaper

•

No bathing, cleaning, bubbles or soap

▲ Conor Errey and Kristin Errey exit Bark Park in May with dog Stella.

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Drones New regulations address drones, or unpiloted aircraft.

Flying drones for commercial purposes is prohibited in parks.

Recreational flying, purely for personal enjoyment, requires permission from the Parks and Recreation Director. Operators must show the drone is registered with the Federal Aviation Administration, follow applicable FAA rules and provide proof of passing the Recreational Unmanned Aircraft Systems Safety Test.

Find details at faa.gov/uas.

Large Gatherings and Public Events For large gatherings and public events that are not organized by the township, a Large Event Application and proof of liability insurance are required, in addition to a pavilion or field rental.

A large event may be a festival, tournament, 5K or other event open to the general public, whether free or with an entrance fee.

The reserving party must pay a rental fee for all park spaces and facilities used. Also, if renting the Rotary Pavilion or Mayview Pavilion in Fairview Park, and anticipated attendance is beyond 200 people, a $100 Park Impact Fee is required.

Other guidelines are related to the correct disposal of trash and noise limits.

The township may require a parking plan, additional sanitary facilities, police officers and public works employees at the expense of the renter.

No group of five or more adults may gather in a park pavilion without a permit.

PARK RULES Code: South Fayette Township General Legislation, Chapter 183: Parks and Recreation Areas (updated by ordinance June 14, 2023) Purpose: Establishes regulations, policies and procedures for the safety of residents and visitors to parks and recreational facilities Applies to: Parks, trails and other recreation areas owned and/or controlled by South Fayette Township, such as Boys Home Park, Fairview Park, Morgan Park, Preservation Park, Sturgeon Park, Treveskyn Park (undeveloped), Boys Home Farm Preserve (undeveloped), the Panhandle Trail in South Fayette and any future public parks Enforcement: South Fayette Township Police Department, the Parks and Recreation Director, or the Planning Director Code Violation: Minimum of $250 for first offense and $600 for second offense, plus fees and court costs. The township may prohibit someone from using parks in the event of repeated or serious violations.

View Code: southfayettepa.com/parkrules

Field Use Athletic fields are eligible for rental, but scheduling priority belongs to the township and to teams that belong to the South Fayette Athletic Association.

Small, casual pick-up games are allowed when a field is not scheduled for use. However, organized sports and activities need township permission to use fields. Rental rates apply.

Diamond Sponsor ◆ Community Day ◆ Thank you!

General Park Rules Park hours generally are dawn to dusk; no one is permitted in parks overnight. Other guidelines aim to protect parks and facilities and ensure visitor safety. Some highlights include: •

Kids under 12 must be supervised by an adult on playgrounds

•

No sale of goods or services, including food trucks and concessions, without township permission

•

No organized activities or lessons, whether free or paid, without a rental permit or township permission (clearances required if children are involved)

•

No parking or driving on grass, turf or landscaping; no unauthorized off-road motor vehicles

•

No picking flowers/plants or taking wildlife (hunting permits are available for Boys Home Farm Preserve)

•

No hitting golf balls

•

No smoking, gambling, drunkenness or profanity

•

No personal fireworks or fires

•

No political signs

•

No glass containers or outside rubbish

"If we all respect the park rules, everyone can benefit from these great public spaces," Willis said.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 7

New year, new cart on the way Automated trash collection set for 2024 Free garbage carts to be provided to households in South Fayette

By Andrea Iglar Automated trash collection will start next year in South Fayette Township.

Sometime in the first quarter of 2024—the dates will be announced—each household will receive one 96-gallon garbage cart, free of charge, for trash placed at the curb.

Trash pickup will continue in the current fashion until the carts are distributed. Keep using your current cans until you receive the new cart.

Township Manager John M. Barrett said municipal staff and the hauler, Waste Management, will work to make the transition as smooth as possible.

“We have a good service provider and a staff equipped to assist residents through these changes,” he said.

Garbage trucks will pick up and empty the trash carts with an automated arm, instead of a person exiting the truck and emptying cans by hand.

Automated recycling already is in effect with 64-gallon carts. Next year, residents will be permitted to put glass bottles, jugs and jars in their recycling bins. Since 2019, glass has been prohibited in curbside recycling.

The new trash carts will be delivered sometime between Jan. 1 and April 1 to singlefamily houses and residences in buildings with four or fewer units.

Each 96-gallon, wheeled tote holds approximately 7 to 8 tall kitchen bags. Residents will have the option to exchange it for a smaller cart—either 64-gallon (4 to 5 trash bags) or 32-gallon (2 to 3 bags).

A household will be able to rent an additional cart for about $110 a year. The rental fee is intended to cover the cost 8|

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of collecting and disposing of that additional waste. Personal, store-bought garbage cans will not be permitted.

All trash must fit inside the cart; trash outside the cart will not be picked up.

However, two bulk items per month (furniture, etc.) can be placed at curb, outside the cart, during a designated monthly bulk collection (details to be announced).

Leaf and yard waste collections will continue to

communities, including South Fayette, through the South Hills Area Council of Governments, a nonprofit group of municipalities that collaborate and take advantage of the economy of scale.

Waste Management, the current hauler in South Fayette, submitted the low bid and was awarded the 5-year contract.

Each municipality then selected from certain options.

In September, South Fayette approved a contract

▼ Automated trash pickup comes with a wheeled cart like this. (Image courtesy of Waste Management)

be held periodically, using biodegradable paper bags placed at the curb (same as the current procedure). Outside of these special collections, yard waste will be treated like any other trash and must be bagged and placed in the garbage cart.

Special arrangements will be made with certain neighborhoods or streets where automated trash pickup is not possible. Service adjustments will occur as needed for people with limited mobility, unusual topography or other special issues.

Earlier this year, waste haulers provided bids for collection services in 19

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that includes automated trash collection for the years 2024 to 2028. Township staff recommended the automated option after reviewing cost scenarios and 1,128 responses to a public opinion poll.

Barrett said automatic collection will let residents dispose of a greater number of trash bags for a lower cost.

“You get more for less,” he said. “Unfortunately, the best price is still a big cost increase.

This is not just a South Fayette issue. It’s happening all over the region.”

The township pays for trash and recycling services through tax revenue; residents are not

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billed directly. The 2023 cost of waste collection was about $1.5 million. Next year, the cost will rise by 40% ($600,000).

Over five years, the additional expense adds up to $4.3 million compared to the current rate.

The contract did not offer any option for trash collection to remain exactly the same as it has been in past years.

Options were either automated collection or a limited manual option. The manual option would have cost $1.4 million more than automated over five years and would have restricted the number of trash bags to five per week, per household.

In a public survey issued in August, 51% of respondents said they preferred automated collection; 40% said manual; 5% said either way is fine; and the remainder were unsure.

The majority—59%— said they were not willing to pay higher taxes for manual collection. Another 33% said they would pay more, and the rest were unsure.

About a fifth wrote comments and questions.

“The survey gave us a better understanding of what people’s concerns are so we can work on solutions with Waste Management,” Barrett said.

The general trash and recycling schedule is expected to stay the same in 2024. Trash is collected weekly on either Thursday or Friday, depending on the street. Recycling is picked up every other week on the same day as garbage.

South Fayette Township will provide updates as Waste Management rolls out the service changes: southfayettepa.com/ automated.

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Green Sponsor ◆ Joy-Thru Fairview ◆ Thank you!

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 9

◀ People enjoy the natural scenery during a walk on the Panhandle Trail in South Fayette in June. ▼ A banner along Marshall Road promotes an effort by the nonprofit Allegheny Land Trust to conserve 141 acres of woods in South Fayette. The project will buffer the Panhandle Trail, connect conserved lands and provide environmental benefits. (Photos by Andrea Iglar)

Protected and connected

Learn more and donate

Nonprofit aims to conserve land in South Fayette Allegheny Land Trust seeks donations to help protect 141 acres near Panhandle Trail

By Andrea Iglar An expanse of woodlands will be protected and connected in South Fayette.

Allegheny Land Trust is set to conserve 221 acres of land near the Panhandle Trail in South Fayette Township and neighboring Collier Township.

The nonprofit is accepting donations to help preserve 141 acres of woods bordering parts of Marshall Road, Scotch Hill Road and Robinson Run Road in South Fayette— plus 80 acres bordered by Gregg Station Road and Nike Site Road in Collier.

The Panhandle Greenway Conservation Project will provide benefits now and for generations to come, said Lindsay Dill, the land trust's senior director of marketing and community engagement.

“In this part of Allegheny County, sprawling development is just starting to take hold and take away these green spaces, so we see this as an opportunity to proactively connect the incredible assets that this region has to support flora, fauna and humans alike,” Dill said.

The land trust has an exclusive contract to purchase and permanently protect the land, contingent upon raising 10 |

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more than $1.7 million in grants, corporate sponsorships and community donations by December.

The nonprofit is asking for a total of $75,000 from individual donors. Even a small donation will help fill the funding gap and demonstrate community support to leverage large grants, Dill said.

In the spring, South Fayette Township submitted letters of support for the project’s state grant applications.

Preserving the land will connect various public and privately conserved lands, including Preservation Park, the Boys Home Farm Preserve and Boys Home Park in South Fayette, as well as Settler’s Cabin Park, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, Collier Township Park, the Montour Trail and the Panhandle Trail.

Two miles of the Panhandle Trail stretch through South Fayette.

The land will be protected from development, maintaining the scenic views, fresh air and peaceful atmosphere that bicyclists, runners, walkers and other trail users enjoy, Dill said.

“We see this as early stages of creating a @SouthFayetteTownship

@SouthFayetteTwp

network of connected, protected lands both to buffer the Panhandle Trail and also to connect to other efforts,” she said.

The South Fayette land includes 11 acres owned by North Star Coal Company and 130 acres owned by Terrence Teodori.

The land was farmed and then mined for coal between 1938 and the mid-1940s.

“For the last 80 years, aerial imagery shows that it has been slowly reverting to a natural forested habitat,” Dill said.

The conservation project aims to preserve natural beauty, enhance clean air and water, protect wildlife habitat, absorb stormwater and mitigate flooding in the Robinson Run watershed.

Once conserved, the land trust will work with the local community to determine if the area could be used for light recreation or environmental education.

“To us, it’s important to protect one of our region’s best assets, which is its closeto-home green space,” Dill said. “We need all the support we can get.”

Learn more and donate: alleghenylandtrust.org/ panhandlegreenway.

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Collier 80 acres

South Fayette 141 acres

▼ Allegheny Land Trust vice president of land conservation Alyson Fearon, left, and board member Lauren Terpak explore woods to be conserved in South Fayette during a land protection committee meeting in April.

(Submitted photo)

Oakdale Borough

◀ Allegheny Land Trust is targeting 221 acres for conservation, including 141 acres in South Fayette and 80 acres in Collier. The woodlands will connect to other public and privately conserved lands, helping protect the Panhandle Trail and Robinson Run watershed.

Map courtesy of Allegheny Land Trust

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South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 11

FLATTEN THE WASHBOARD Old Pond Road no longer feels like driving on a wavy washboard. The South Fayette Township Public Works Department evened out the surface in September using micro-milling, the process of shaving off 1 inch or less of asphalt. In partnership with Swank Construction Company of South Fayette, crews micro-milled a 1,200-foot section of the road, which leads to Abele Business Park. The result is a smoother, more comfortable ride, with fewer icy patches expected this winter. Old Pond Road likely will be paved next year.

—Photos and text by Andrea Iglar

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▲ Alan Desmet of Public Works drives a dump truck, left, to catch loose millings as Barry Miller directs the vehicle. The milling machine, at back, is operated by an employee of Swank Construction Company of South Fayette. ▼ Leveling the surface of Old Pond Road results in a smoother ride to and from Abele Business Park.

▲ Operating a street sweeper, Dale Kirkpatrick vacuums debris and sprinkles water to reduce dust. ▼ John Selva walks behind the milling machine and sweeps asphalt shavings with a broom.

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South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 13

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South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP

WE ARE MOVING South Fayette Township Offices & Police Station

3

New Location November 2023

New Municipal Center & Police Station

southfayettepa.com 412-221-8700

miles from 515 Millers Run Rd: Left on Millers Run Rd Left on Route 50 Right on Hickory Grade Rd Left on Township Drive

New address, same ways to connect

sfadmin@sftwp.com South Fayette Library & Senior Center remain at 515 Millers Run Rd

100 Township Drive South Fayette, PA 15017

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Graphic adapted from Google Maps by Andrea Iglar

Previous location 515 Millers Run Rd

Six-year-old raises money to benefit dogs for veterans

◀ Emerson Kiefer, 6, of South Fayette accepts donations at her snack shop during the Fairview community garage sale in August.

(Submitted photo)

Six-year-old Emerson Kiefer of South Fayette Township raised $200 this summer to benefit Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans, a Pittsburgh-area nonprofit that places medical service dogs with military veterans.

A first-grader at St. Louise de Marillac Catholic School, Emerson set up “Emme’s Snack Shop” in August during the Fairview neighborhood garage sale. She offered snacks and drinks in exchange for voluntary donations. A week later, she presented the money to William Jeffcoat, president of the all-volunteer organization.

“I like dogs and that they were helping the veterans, so that’s why I picked that charity,” Emerson said in a press statement. “All I did was one small thing, but it was a big thing to them.”

Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans has gifted 50 service dogs to veterans in Western Pennsylvania.

The dogs, which cost $25,000 each to house and train, help veterans who are dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, mobility issues, and other visible and invisible wounds of war.

Details: padogsforvets.org. ▶ South Fayette resident Emerson Kiefer presents a $200.97 donation to William Jeffcoat, right, and meets veteran Craig Hodgkins and his service dog, Foxy, during a community event in Washington County. (Submitted photo)

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South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 17

South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP

Class of 1973 marks 50th reunion A total of 44 alumni of the South Fayette Junior-Senior High School Class of 1973 attended their 50th reunion Sept. 9 at the Alpine Club.

Two dozen participants had attended South Fayette schools for all 12 grades (below).

Earlier in the day, alumni toured South Fayette High School (right) and visited South Fayette Middle School—which was the JuniorSenior High School in 1973.

The class had 99 graduates; 17 are deceased. Collectively, the classmates have 168 grandchildren.

In an email to classmates, reunion committee member Mark Schneider noted his peers are baby boomers and wrote: "Our parents were the result of their parents being South Fayette farmers, miners, steel workers, etc. A rich heritage."

More photos are posted in the Facebook group "South Fayette Jr. Sr. High School - Class of 1973 - 50th Year Class Reunion."

—Andrea Iglar

Submitted photos

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◀ Shirley Petrillo, center, receives flowers and congratulations in July upon her retirement from the volunteer chef position with the South Fayette Area Senior Citizens Association.

Photo by Andrea Iglar

Chef hangs up the apron Shirley Petrillo retires from her cooking duties with the South Fayette senior citizens group

By Andrea Iglar For about a decade, Shirley Petrillo was the chef behind the stuffed shells, Italian salad, chili and other dishes served at the monthly luncheons of the South Fayette Area Senior Citizens Association.

Petrillo retired this summer from her volunteer position as cook for the nonprofit group.

During the July 17 meeting, association officers surprised her with a bouquet of flowers and thanked Petrillo for her service.

Betty Buzzato and Janet Florio, who are sisters, took over cooking duties.

“I have a hard time believing they’ll keep Shirley out of the kitchen,” group

president Margie Smith said to a roomful of laughter.

Each month, Petrillo spent several days planning her menu, shopping for groceries and preparing food. Often, she fed more than 100 people.

Petrillo grew up learning how to cook; her parents owned Mariani’s Club 28 at the corner of Millers Run Road and Battle Ridge Road (not to be confused with Mariani’s Italian Restaurant, which was on the sharp bend in Cuddy where McClelland’s Public House now operates).

“All my family cooked,” Petrillo said.

“It’s in the genes.”

The senior citizens association provides social and recreational opportunities for members age 55 and over and their spouses. The group meets at 515 Millers Run Road in the Morgan neighborhood of South Fayette.

Weekly activities include bingo, card games and Mah Jongg. A luncheon meeting is held on the third Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m.

Eligible adults who live in or around South Fayette are welcome to attend the luncheon for information about becoming a member.

Details: southfayettepa.com/seniors.

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South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP

FRIENDS AT THE BEND Chartiers Bend Retirement Resort in South Fayette Township held an open house in October at its three-level, luxury apartment building on the bend of Chartiers Creek. The allinclusive, resort-style community, next to Hastings on Mayview Road, is designed for adults age 55 and over.

Guests toured the 128-unit facility, met staff and residents,

sampled the food and visited amenities such as a hair salon, fitness center and 150-person theater. One- and two-bedroom units are available under month-to-month leases.

Chartiers Bend, 1001 Hastings Park Drive, South Fayette: 412-677-2155; chartiersbendretirement.com.

—Photos & text by Andrea Iglar

▲ Guests join staff and residents on the second floor of Chartiers Bend Retirement Resort during a tour. ◀ Original Chartiers Bend residents Harry Davis, left, Eileen Davis, Jody Vaughn, Jean Nixon and Gloria McGivern gather in the dining room. ▶ Friends Sophie Malli, left, and Cathy Wall join resident manager Randy Houk for refreshments. ▶▶ Guests tour a one-bedroom apartment.

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South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 21

South Fayette BUSINESS

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Oasis Restaurant reopens in South Fayette Fourth and fifth generations of family-owned Italian restaurant continue business and recipes

By Andrea Iglar Oasis Restaurant is back, and it’s in South Fayette.

Following a 90-year tradition, descendants of the original owners are preparing their family's traditional Italian recipes and homemade pasta on Washington Pike.

The founders' great-great granddaughter, Rebecca Kelly, and her uncle Chuck Miller reopened the hallmark eatery in June. They represent the fifth and fourth generations, respectively, of the business.

“I’m obviously proud of the tradition and legacy that we’re carrying on,” Miller said. “It’s important to our family that this continues.”

Recipes, passed down for generations, include homemade spaghetti, gnocchi, and meat and cheese ravioli. Lasagna is offered on Fridays.

Chuck's father, Mark Miller—Kelly's grandfather—makes sauce from scratch daily, like he has been doing for more than 50 years.

“The main staples have remained the same all this time,” Kelly said.

Italian immigrants Giovaccino "Jack" and Gilda Battistoni (known by family as Nonno and Nonna) started the eatery in 1933 as Jack’s supper club in the Cuddy neighborhood of South Fayette Township.

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In 1954, the restaurant changed its name to Oasis and moved to Heidelberg, where it operated at two locations, first across from the Heidelberg Raceway and, from 1971 to 2005, on the site currently occupied by Walgreens.

Over the years, relatives While Oasis never also operated offshoots of was fancy, it always Oasis, including Little Oasis on had a comfortable McLaughlin Run Road in Bridgeville family atmosphere. and Oasis Pasta House in Carnegie and Cecil.

Through it all, Oasis stayed in the family, passing to the five Battistoni children, and then to Mark and Gary Miller, and eventually to the fourth and fifth generations.

Starting at age 17, Kelly learned the restaurant trade alongside her grandfather. She was working at the Oasis Pasta House in Cecil when it closed for what was supposed to be a temporary period, but it turned into a permanent closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Kelly couldn’t stay away from the restaurant business for long. She joined forces with Miller, who had started rolling pasta and bartending for the family businesses in 2001.

The duo, who are 12 years apart in age, found a space to lease that formerly housed ice cream, pizza and taco places.

The location is near the established Oasis customer base and close home in South Fayette, Kelly said.

“This is my first time owning, so I’m excited this is where I got to be,” she said.

A South Fayette resident, Kelly was born and raised on Sygan Hill, where other relatives continue to reside. Miller lives in Hunting Ridge.

Kelly and Miller said one of the best parts of reopening Oasis has been reconnecting with multiple generations of customers.

“Everyone always has a story about the Oasis,” Miller said.

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▲ South Fayette residents Chuck Miller, left, and his niece Rebecca Kelly prepare for a day's work at Oasis Restaurant in October. The duo reopened the Italian eatery along Washington Pike in South Fayette in June, continuing a 90-year family tradition. (Photo by Andrea Iglar) Many customers have celebrated special occasions at Oasis over the years because, while it never was fancy, it always had a comfortable family atmosphere, Kelly said.

“I can’t tell you how many people got engaged at Oasis,” she said.

Oasis serves lunch and dinner. Takeout is popular because the small, 12-seat dining room is first come, first served. Online and phone ordering are available Monday through Thursday.

Call well ahead for takeout on Fridays and Saturdays.

In addition to pasta, the restaurant offers dinners such as chicken Parmesan (Kelly’s favorite), appetizers, salads (homemade ranch and Italian dressings are available),

sandwiches (especially fish) and homemade soups, such as Kelly’s cheeseburger soup and Miller’s creamy chicken soup.

The owners also create daily specials.

While owning a business is tough—and working with family can be challenging—the niece and uncle felt confident they could work together.

“I knew that we would come through no matter what because we love each other,” Kelly said. “And at the end of the day, that’s the biggest thing—we’re family.”

Oasis Restaurant: 3181 Washington Pike, South Fayette: 412-564-5007; Facebook.

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South Fayette BUSINESS

Apartments set for Newbury South Fayette-based developer to build 416 units along Oak Ridge Road

By Andrea Iglar More than a decade since Newbury first proposed apartments in South Fayette, a project is poised to materialize.

Alpha Residential is developing Apex Newbury, a sixbuilding complex of 416 apartments on 37 acres spanning Oak Ridge Road.

Site work began after a July groundbreaking. Opening is expected in 2025.

Apex Newbury is the first project in South Fayette for Alpha Residential, a privately held investment firm based in the township’s Abele Business Park.

Company founders Jide Famuagun and Lawunmi Famuagun are spouses who live in South Fayette with their two children.

Several employees also live in the community.

CEO Jide Famuagun said he invests in thriving areas where people care about each other.

“The ability to do that in the neighborhood where we live and work was a big positive,” he said.

More than a decade ago, plans for the Newbury mixeduse project included 250 garden apartments in 11 three-story buildings—but that never happened. Famuagun said the apartments were redesigned to be economically viable.

The 232 one-bedroom units and 184 two-bedroom units are geared toward younger professionals and older adults. Rent will start at $1,580 a month (subject to change).

Units range from 737 square feet to 1,294 square feet—sizes less likely to attract families with children, Famuagun said.

In the first phase of the project, two connected buildings on the north side of Oak Ridge will be built with 139 apartments.

The second phase, to the south, will have four connected buildings with 277 units. A crosswalk will connect the two sides.

A 2022 transportation impact study did not recommend any off-site road improvements in the area. The study predicted the apartments will generate 1,894 daily vehicle trips (947 cars in and out), with about 160 cars at the peak morning and evening times.

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▲ Jide Famuagun, left, and Lawunmi Famuagun, 10-year residents of South Fayette, hold shovels at a ceremonial groundbreaking in July for the Apex Newbury apartments along Oak Ridge Road.

The couple's company Alpha Residential is developing the project.

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▶ South Fayette Township Commissioners Rebecca Sray, left, and Gwen Rodi join Alpha Residential for a ceremonial groundbreaking in July for the Apex Newbury apartment project. (Submitted photo)

Overall, Newbury includes 195 single-family houses perched above Presto-Sygan Road, plus Newbury Market, with businesses such as Topgolf, Tesla and BJ’s Wholesale Club, near Route 50 and Interstate 79.

“From an ecosystem standpoint, having a lot of nearby retail also helps the livability and the experience our residents are going to enjoy,” Famuagun said.

The need for housing diversity is a factor in the mid-rise apartment project because most homes in South Fayette are singlefamily.

According to the township’s 2023 Comprehensive Plan, the township should strive to promote a mix of housing options and styles for a wide range of demographic groups.

Alpha Residential, headquartered in the Beacon 1 office building on Abele Road since 2019, has a portfolio of about two dozen multifamily communities in the Midwest and Southeast.

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Apex-branded properties include three in Nashville, Tennessee, and two under development locally in South Fayette and Moon.

Each apartment includes smart-home technology, open layouts and features such as gourmet kitchens with islands, walk-in closets, verandas, and in-unit washers and dryers.

Community amenities include a swimming pool, rooftop clubroom, fitness spaces, co-working spaces, dog parks and a walking trail.

Apex Newbury will be one of a kind in the region, Famuagun said.

“The South Fayette community is going to be very proud of having an Apex in the backyard,” he said.

Details: 412-212-0665; Facebook; Instagram; liveatnewbury.com.

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South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 25

South Fayette BUSINESS

PIZZA AT THE PIAZZA ◀ The wood-fired oven at Pizzaiolo Primo in South Fayette holds a temperature of 1,000 degrees for baking pizza the authentic Neapolitan way.

A wood-fired pizza oven is the centerpiece of Pizzaiolo Primo, an Italian restaurant that opened in October at The Piazza at South Fayette.

The Neapolitan pizza and pasta place, 193 Millers Run Road, features an 84-seat dining room, a 57-seat patio and a bar with an expanded wine selection. The artisan menu includes made-fromscratch pasta and pizza crust.

Lunch and dinner are served every day. The original location is in Market Square in Pittsburgh.

Additional food establishments at The Piazza, developed by Burns Scalo Real Estate, are Primanti Bros. Restaurant & Bar, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, Bartram House Café & Bakery and The MilkShake Factory.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers is under construction and expected to open in January.

Other businesses are European Wax Center, GNC Live Well, STRIDE Fitness and IMAGE Studios (beauty salons).

—Text & photos by Andrea Iglar

▼ Primanti Bros. Restaurant & Bar, Bartram House Cafe & Bakery, IMAGE Studios and STRIDE Fitness are among the businesses that have opened at The Piazza, a 50,000-square-foot shopping center near the Interstate 79 interchange in South Fayette Township.

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Abele Business Park THE IDEAL CHOICE

FOR YOUR GROWING

BUSINESS

Join nearly 100 thriving businesses in South Fayette's most vibrant and convenient office park.

Shannon Rometo

Nick Scalo

412.266.4417 | srometo@burnsscalo.com

412.721.7300 | nscalo@burnsscalo.com

Brokerage Advisor

Brokerage Advisor

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 27

BUSINES Location and amenities key to success of Abele Business Park

Largest office campus in South Fayette offers tenant-focused services

By Andrea Iglar It’s the closest thing South Fayette has to the Hollywood sign.

On a hillside above the Interstate 79 interchange, 12-foot-high capital letters spell ABELE, marking the site of the township’s largest business park.

Abele (locally pronounced AB-ell-ee) is the name of a white poplar tree. The namesake business park has 300,000 square feet of office and flexible-use space in 17 single-story buildings, owned and operated

by Burns Scalo Real Estate.

The area is a hub of activity for about 70 tenants, who lease spaces ranging from several hundred to thousands of square feet.

The largest space belongs to Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania. The nonprofit signed a 10-year lease in 2018 for 17,000 square feet that includes JA BizTown, a business district simulation designed to teach youth about the workforce, finance 28 |

and community functions.

Each year, JA BizTown welcomes 4,000 students from 56 counties in Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, so Abele's location next to I-79 is key, spokesperson Kim Sterling said.

“It provides us the opportunity to really have an easy access point,” Sterling said, noting the business park is situated amid a “hub for a lot of great activity.”

Green Tree-based Burns Scalo, founded in 1956, bought the bulk of Abele in 2015 and renovated the circa-1980s buildings. The real estate firm provides a full slate of services that don’t stop after a client signs a lease.

Brokerage advisor Joe Sheerer said working with clients goes beyond paperwork.

“It makes it better having a more personal relationship with tenants,” he said.

“Building those relationships, seeing each other face to face, makes a huge difference.”

The top level of Abele Business Park in South Fayette is perched on a hill overlooking Interstate 79 and other regional features. (Drone image courtesy of Burns Scalo Real Estate)

SS HUB South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 29

◀ Lewis Music Studio owner Becki Lewis, left, and her spouse, Scott Lewis, host a booth at a community day event in Abele Business Park in September. (Photo courtesy of Burns Scalo Real Estate) ▶ A van approaches the 12-foot-tall letters of the Abele sign on the hillside along Old Pond Road in October. (Photo by Andrea Iglar) ▶▶ Burns Scalo brokerage advisors Shannon Rometo, left, Nick Scalo and Joe Sheerer help clients secure space at Abele. (Photo by Andrea Iglar)

The focus on customer service is perhaps rooted in the family culture of Burns Scalo, where the staff includes relatives who have prepared for their jobs through both formal education and on-the-job training.

Brokerage advisor Nick Scalo, the son of CEO Jim Scalo, painted warehouses in Abele when he was a teenager, later interning at the firm, graduating from West Virginia University with a marketing degree, earning a real estate license and joining the leasing team.

“I know this park very well, so it was easy for me to onboard,” he said.

The leasing team has close ties: Nick works with his second cousin, Shannon Rometo, and Sheerer has been his friend since kindergarten. Ruby Scalo, Nick’s sister, is senior brokerage advisor.

“It’s a testament to how family-owned we really are, not just corporate,” Rometo said. “It’s very cool working with family.”

Providing a range of real estate services, the team works with existing and potential clients to accommodate their needs, whether it is finding the right size and type of space, molding a creative financial deal, customizing interiors or facilitating an expansion.

Becki Lewis, owner of Lewis Music Studio, was operating in Abele for less than two years when she needed more space to teach lessons. In 2021, she quadrupled her space to 2,300 square feet at the top of the hill on Abele Road.

Lewis had wanted to stay in Abele because of factors like the convenient location, nearby amenities, peaceful setting and responsive maintenance crew.

“I said, ‘I desperately need to move, like, next month, I’m 30 |

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out of space,’” Lewis recalled. “Burns Scalo helped us with that.

They told us from the start if you need to expand, we don’t penalize you.”

In addition to renting space in Abele, Burns Scalo can help businesses who need to expand beyond South Fayette. The firm recently joined NAI Global, an international brokerage network of more than 300 offices that allows the South Fayette team to help clients find commercial space around the world.

Locally, Burns Scalo provides an array of amenities to help retain leaseholders, draw workers back to the office and express client appreciation.

Tenants have free parking and private suites with individual entrances. Some spaces offer a dock and drive-in door. The campus includes exercise stations, walking paths and outdoor meeting benches.

The company held a community day at Abele in September and regularly welcomes food trucks.

Amenities don’t stop at the borders of Abele. Burns Scalo has developed The Piazza at South Fayette, a 50,000-squarefoot restaurant and retail center at the intersection of Route 50 and Hickory Grade Road, just minutes from the business park.

A tenant perks program offers discounts at businesses in The Piazza and elsewhere.

Prior to construction of The Piazza, Burns Scalo surveyed tenants of Abele and the firm’s other South Fayette office and flex campus—Bursca Business Park, off Washington Pike—and asked what services they wanted to see added to the area.

“They all very collectively said lunch spots and happy hour spots,” Rometo said. “Some of them said fitness, some of them said hair salon. We actually have all of those. I do feel like we listened and provided that.”

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Occupants of the three-level, tree-filled Abele campus offer medical, legal and financial services; fitness classes; support services; and more. Examples include Kaleidoscope Childcare Center; Ridgeview Physical Therapy & Wellness Center; Rx Partners; Barber National Institute; and Stout PGH, a Brazilian jiu jitsu studio.

Vacancies are available.

The Abele campus also includes Burns Scalo’s Beacon 1, a fourstory, 80,000-squarefoot office building with sweeping views and tenants such as Waldron Private Wealth and iHeartMEDIA, the home of 102.5 WDVEFM and five other radio stations.

Other properties in the park are independently owned by companies such as Cintas and Verizon.

The location of Abele is a huge draw. In addition to being adjacent to the I-79 exit in South Fayette, the business park lies only five miles from the South Fayette Way interchange of the newly built Southern Beltway, which connects to Pittsburgh

International Airport.

Abele traffic uses Hickory Grade Road to access the business park. The township plans to use money contributed from developers to widen and expand Hickory Grade at its intersection with Route 50, starting as early as 2025.

Total value of Abele Business Park’s land and buildings exceeds $21 million, according to Allegheny County. This helps make Burns Scalo one of the top commercial taxpayers in South Fayette Township.

Rometo said Burns Scalo looks forward to continued growth in South Fayette— and she noticed that other businesses are following suit.

“A lot of people are investing in this area right now,” she said. “So it goes to show that something is going on, and people want to be a part of it.”

Abele Business Park, South Fayette Township: 412-250-3000; burnsscalo.com/abele.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 31

South Fayette Township police officer Alex Korkus completes training with K-9 O'Neil, a German shepherd, in July at Shallow Creek Kennels in Sharpsville, Mercer County.

Photo courtesy of Shallow Creek Kennels

32 |

Police K-9 O'Neil clutches his toy ball.

Officer's Best Friend

German shepherd O'Neil joins police department K-9 works alongside Officer Alex Korkus in South Fayette

By Andrea Iglar Like a typical dog, O’Neil loves his toy ball.

But unlike a regular pet, the 2-year-old German shepherd gets up and goes to work every day with a police officer.

Since July 31, the K-9 has accompanied Officer Alex Korkus on all his shifts with the South Fayette Township Police Department.

O’Neil is a certified service canine with three main skills.

He can track the odors of people and objects, detect narcotics and apprehend suspects.

His reward for a job well done? His toy ball on a rope, along with verbal praise.

No matter the task—searching for a missing person, tracking an armed suspect, scouring a building for drugs—the dog is driven by his reward, Korkus said.

“All he knows is he’s going to work, and it’s got to be fun for him,” Korkus said. “He thinks, ‘If I do this, I’m going to get my ball, and that’s all I want.’”

Being a K-9 handler is what Korkus always wanted from police work.

“It’s already been the most rewarding thing,” he said. “It’s the best way to feel like you get something back and actually have a partner. It keeps you motivated every day, knowing the dog is relying on you.”

The South Fayette K-9 unit now includes two dogs: O’Neil and 6-year-old Ellie, a bloodhound who works with handler Sgt. Mike Wesolek.

(The dogs, by the way, have different sniffing skills. The floppy-eared bloodhound can discriminate among multiple odors, whereas the pointy-eared German shepherd can follow a single scent.)

A K-9 is trained to be under the handler’s control at all times. O’Neil can capture a suspect with a bite and hold—but only at the command of Korkus, who also tells the dog when to let go.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 33

South Fayette police officer Alex Korkus practices obedience training with K-9 O'Neil at Fairview Park in September. Photos by Andrea Iglar

Normally, the handler gives a suspect verbal warnings and VIDEO opportunities to surrender before O'Neil & his ordering the dog to bite.

K-9 car According to police department policy, the handler may order a bite when a suspect is placing people in serious imminent danger; when a K-9 is needed to overcome a suspect physically resisting arrest; or when a suspect is concealed in an area that would pose a threat to officers or the public.

Any dog bites must be documented and injuries promptly treated.

“Although O’Neil is capable of apprehension work, everything he does resorts back to his obedience and the commands that he is given,” Korkus said.

O’Neil was born Jan. 8, 2022, in Hungary. The police department secured the dog and the training this year through Shallow Creek Kennels, Inc. of Sharpsville, a privately owned and operated police service dog importing and training facility.

The dogs are hand-picked in Europe to ensure they are healthy and suitable for law enforcement work.

Police Chief John Phoennik said the township selected 34 |

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a calm, mild-mannered dog that would be appropriate for engaging with the public, working in schools, patrolling at businesses and appearing at community events.

“O’Neil is a positive addition to the community,” he said.

“It’s another tool we have.”

The cost for the dog and training was $16,000, offset by a $10,000 grant from the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office that was secured by township Commissioner Gwen Rodi. Equipping a police vehicle for the K-9 cost $7,300. The township allocates money annually for dog food, veterinarian care and insurance.

The Illinois-based nonprofit organization Protecting K-9 Heroes donated a ballistic vest and emergency medical kit for the dog worth about $2,000.

When Korkus visited Shallow Creek in May to meet potential K-9s, he knew he wanted O’Neil the first time they went for a walk together.

“There’s some kind of little bond you form immediately,” he said.

In June and July, Korkus spent six weeks training with O’Neil at Shallow Creek, developing his relationship with the dog and learning how to issue commands in Dutch.

Korkus learned to watch for subtle changes to the dog’s tail, ears, head, speed and movements, while O’Neil tuned into his handler's words, motions and moods.

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K-9 oath of office Police Chief John Phoennik administered the oath of office to K-9 O’Neil during the South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners meeting in September.

“I don’t think it’s possible for him to raise his right paw, but we’re going to go through it anyway," Phoennik said. "This will make it official."

Officer Alex Korkus sat with the dog as the chief read the following oath: "O’Neil, do you swear that you will lay down your life to protect all officers and expect nothing but love in return?

“Everything for him is my tone of voice, body language, my verbal cues,” Korkus said. “The amount of attentiveness and obedience is amazing to me.”

The duo learned how to detect heroin, cocaine, meth and other drugs (excluding marijuana); trace and follow the scents of people and objects; and seize suspects.

Officer Korkus said the training was probably the hardest thing he has experienced in his professional career, both physically and mentally.

Now, Korkus and O’Neil train twice a month with other local police dogs and handlers, and Korkus constantly practices obedience with the dog.

A K-9 tends to take on the attitude of the handler, and Korkus generally has a friendly, easygoing demeanor.

“It’s very important to have the right handler for the right dog, and I think we found that,” Phoennik said.

“Officer Korkus is the perfect fit.”

Korkus has been a South Fayette police officer since May 2019.

Being a K-9 handler means committing to the dog at work, at home and for the life of the dog.

German shepherds typically work for 8 to 10 years and live to be 12 to 14 years old.

Going above and beyond, Korkus built an addition to his house to give O’Neil his own room for a kennel, where the dog spends most off-duty hours napping.

Korkus does not give O’Neil the run of the house like he does his pet pooch. Instead, downtime is structured so the K-9 knows the difference between work and play.

“I’ve always been a dog person as much as the next guy,” Korkus said. “I like having pet dogs. But it is totally different doing this with him every day.

He is a work dog.”

"You will be called on to find lost children, fugitives on the run, drugs and weapons.

"You will be the first sent in and often the last to leave.

"You are the nose and ears of your handler and will serve alongside him every day.

"You will protect and serve South Fayette Township and all of its officers and residents.

"You will uphold your duties as a police K-9, obeying each command, enforcing, serving and protecting your community and your handler to the best of your ability, and in return only ask for love and care for all of your career.

"O’Neil, congratulations, and welcome aboard."

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 35

Th

Trigger the Wandering Horse causes a sensation Fake horse brings real joy to adults and kids in South Fayette

By Andrea Iglar Trigger the Wandering Horse of South Fayette could appear soon on a lawn near you.

The phenomenon of the life-size plastic horse secretly moving locations overnight is like a combination of Elf on a Shelf, Flat Stanley and Where’s Waldo—but it’s uniquely South Fayette.

Trigger moves around undetected, appearing in front yards to mark special occasions.

Passersby take photos with the statue and post them in a Facebook group dedicated to the equine.

Neighbors dress Trigger in colorful hats, sashes and bandanas.

Students on school buses scan the landscape for the horse, and drivers slow down and do double takes, questioning if Trigger is real like the horses they just passed at Rolling Hills Ranch.

In short, Trigger has become a local sensation.

The man behind the horse is Ray Mantia.

“I didn’t expect all this, but I enjoy it,” Mantia said. “I’m glad that Trigger has become a staple in the community.”

A former beef cattle farmer, Mantia has plenty of experience with cows, but Trigger is his firstever horse.

In 2021, Mantia moved from Washington County to 5 ½ acres on Hickory Grade Road near Parkes Farm Estates in South Fayette Township.

Two years later, his property is known as the house with the horse.

“Not knowing anybody around 36 |

Trigger the Wandering Horse of South Fayette—a restored equine statue—takes a break in his home pasture along Hickory Grade Road in September. (Photo by Andrea Iglar)

he House with the Horse

here when I just moved here, I certainly met a lot of people through this horse,” Mantia said.

In May, his sister Brandy was ready to toss a decades-old, 100-pound hollow resin horse statue that had stood at the entrance to a former horse farm she bought an hour southeast in Perryopolis.

Mantia saved the horse from the glue factory.

He sanded, pressure washed, repaired and painted the figure.

The resulting pattern of brown and white wasn’t meant to resemble any particular breed; Mantia just painted the body to loosely resemble a horse he once rode at the neighboring horse ranch.

Then Mantia plopped the horse statue in his pasture. He called his sister and said in jest, “You should see Trigger now”— offhandedly naming the horse after the palomino famous for being the costar of cowboy actor and singer Roy Rogers from the 1930s to 1960s.

The horse hijinks could have stopped there, but they escalated after Mantia moved the horse’s location one night and received a text message from a neighbor who noticed. Mantia moved the horse again as a joke, and then moved Trigger across the street to the neighbors’ place while they were on vacation. “I sent a picture and I said, ‘The horse got out. It’s in your yard.’”

It didn’t take long for kids on school buses to start jockeying for window seats to see Trigger. This enthusiasm prompted Mantia to move Trigger regularly for their amusement. One time, he heard students chanting, “Trig-ger! Trigger!” when they spotted him.

Trigger soon generated buzz in the nearby Parkes Farm neighborhood, including a Facebook group post asking, “Anyone know the story on the ‘horse’ at the house on the corner?”

Now, residents request visits from the horse for special occasions and just for fun.

Trigger cannot fulfill every request for a visit—after all, he South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 37

◀ Cate Giaquinto hangs out with Trigger on Pine Valley Drive to celebrate the "Barbie" movie premiere in July. ▼ Trigger visits the Kevington neighborhood in August to celebrate a Spiderman-themed birthday with Jonmarco Mehalic, left, and then to see off Juliana and Jett Mehalic, middle, on the first day of school. ▼ ▼ Janet Dolgos, who lives across the street from Trigger, visits the horse with her granddaughter Kaylee Dolgos, right. ▶ The Barksdale family finds Trigger in front of their neighbor's home in Parkes Farm Estates in July. Justin Barksdale, at back, holds daughter Brooklynn, 4, on the horse as Liam, 12, left, Ayla, 10, Madilynn, 6, and Alexander, 8, enjoy the visit.

Photos used by permission of members of the Facebook group "Trigger the Wandering Horse of South Fayette"

needs breaks from galloping around the township. But when a tour stop is scheduled, Mantia and Trigger rise at 3 a.m. and hoof it to a new spot under cover of darkness.

The next morning, residents are surprised to find a horse standing on their front lawn.

After each visit, Trigger disappears just as mysteriously.

Parkes Farm resident Shannon Barksdale photographed her family with Trigger when the horse visited her neighbor’s yard this summer.

“Trigger brings such joy to my five children,” she said. “We look for him every time we drive by, and it makes my children reminisce about the vacation we went horseback riding 38 |

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together.”

Stephen Kancel gave Trigger a bale of hay and fake apples when the horse visited his home on Christine Court in July.

Neighbors decked out the horse with a bandana and a patriotic hat.

“It’s something out of the ordinary just to be able to have him on our property,” Kancel said. “It’s a novelty kind of thing.

It’s just fun.”

Mallory Madden of the Kevington neighborhood said her family regularly rode around over the summer looking for Trigger when he wasn’t standing in his home pasture. Her three kids were thrilled when they would find the horse at

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▲ Four-year-old Dax Madden, left, and siblings Mireya, 6, and Merric, 1, are ecstatic to find Trigger in their front yard in Kevington one morning in August. ▲ ▲ Trigger sports a patriotic hat from the Wigger family and a red bandana from the Esch family in Stephen Kancel's yard in Parkes Farm Estates around the Fourth of July.

Photos: Facebook ▶ Ray Mantia relaxes with Trigger in his yard—the horse's home pasture—along Hickory Grade Road in September. Mantia restored the equine statue, which has become a sensation in South Fayette.

Photo by Andrea Iglar

neighboring homes. Then, at the request of an acquaintance, Trigger galloped over to the Madden home in August.

First-grader Mireya, 6, woke up in the morning and spotted the horse from an upstairs window. She ran downstairs screaming with delight, exciting her siblings Dax, 4, and Merric, 1.

“It was like Christmas morning when we found out Trigger was in our front yard,” Madden said. “The kids were ecstatic. It was magical.”

Mantia has received handwritten messages from people expressing their enjoyment of Trigger: “We really like your horse and hope you don’t mind we made him a sash for

Memorial Day!” And: “Just a note to let you know how much we love your horse! Puts a smile on my face every time.”

Just after the Fourth of July, Trigger got his own Facebook group with the description: “Meet Trigger… the newly FAMOUS horse wandering around South Fayette. Although Trigger does not eat much he does have quite the appetite to wander the yard on his own!”

Fan photos chronicle the horse’s adventures and reveal the unbridled joy that adults and children experience when they meet Trigger.

“It’s kind of inspiring,” Mantia said. “If it makes somebody smile every day, it’s worth it.”

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 39

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South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 41

Thanks for jo

South Fayette C

presented by Washin

Save the Date: Sat. Aug. 24, 2024

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oining us at

ngton Financial Bank

Photos by Daniel Thompson and Josh Milteer

Community Day

What a fun day at Fairview Park with family, friends and neighbors!

More than 5,000 people attended the event Sat. Aug. 26, 2023, enjoying 100 vendors, live music and entertainment, games and kids activities.

Thanks to our sponsors and volunteers for making the day possible.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 43

ko

ic er K

m

Sum

Photos by Daniel Thompson Photography

in the

3

02 2 f f

ite

@reallygreats

with No Bad JuJu Platinum Sponsor ◆ South Fayette Community Day ◆ Thank you!

PRT making a difference.

PRT is improving transit for every rider. We’re adding QR codes to bus signs so you’ll know when your bus will arrive. We’re making it easier to get on board with our mobile ticketing app.

And, we’re investing in all electric buses to help reduce emissions today-to help improve air quality tomorrow. Yes, PRT is making changes. But more importantly, we’re making a difference.

Learn more at rideprt.org 44 |

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Photos by Daniel Thompson Photography

JULY 2023 REC

AP

Touch-a-Truck PRESENTED BY KIDDIE ACADEMY OF SOUTH FAYETTE

Platinum Sponsor ◆ Touch-a-Truck ◆ Thank you!

Expert care close to home.

stclair.org

Expert care from people who care.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 45

Tickets

Friday, December 8, 2023

6 pm - 9 pm @ Fairview Park, South Fayette ONE FREE TICKET REQUIRED PER CAR FOR ALLOTTED TIME SLOT

Drive through the park to see

HOLIDAY LIGHTS - CHARACTERS & PERFORMERS - MUSIC - BUSINESS BOOTHS - LIVE REINDEER - SANTA

Please donate one toy per vehicle 46 |

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South Fayette Township

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@SouthFayettePA

SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP

Parks & Rec Programs PGH ZOO & AQUARIUM: ONE DEGREE OF CHANGE Tues Jan. 9, 4 PM - 4:45 PM @ SF Senior Center, Grades 4 - 8, $18/pp

MOTHER, MAY I - MANNERS CLASS

Tues Jan. 23, 6 PM - 7:30 PM @ SF Senior Center, Ages 6 - 12, $42/pp

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Thursdays Jan. 25 & Feb. 8, 22, 29 @ SF Senior Center; $145/pp Ages 4 - 6 @ 2 PM - 3:30 PM; Ages 7 - 11 @ 4 PM - 5:30 PM

SNAKES WITH ALLEGHENY PARK RANGERS Sun Feb. 4, 1 PM - 2 PM @ SF Senior Center, Ages 6 - 12, Free

SCIENCE ON THE ROAD W/ CARNEGIE SCIENCE CENTER Tues Feb. 6 - Feb. 20 @ South Fayette Senior Center; $40/pp Ages 6 - 9 @ 5 PM- 5:45 PM; Ages 10 - 13 @ 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM

MINDS IN MOTION: YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS Tues March 12 - April 16, 5 PM - 6 PM @ SF Sr Ctr, Ages 9 - 13, $125/pp

SFBFITNESS WITH KATIE LOGAN

Wednesdays @ 6:30 PM or Thursdays @ 9 AM $12 drop-in; $55/5 classes; $84/8 classes - Check website; location varies

ADULT YOGA

Mondays @ 7 PM, Sturgeon Fire Hall; $11/class

FAMILY & FRIENDS CPR/FIRST AID POWER HOUR Thurs Feb. 1 @ South Fayette Senior Center; $26/pp

PUZZLE PALOOZA: HOLIDAY EDITION Tues Dec. 19, 6:30 PM - 8: 45 PM @ SF Senior Ctr, Ages 7 - adult, $5/team

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

CHILD CARE WITH BABYSITTING LOGISTICS Sat Feb. 10, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM @ SF Senior Ctr; Ages 3 - 9, $35/child

SOUTHFAYETTEPA.COM/RECREATION 412-221-8700 / recreation@sftwp.com South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 47

Green Sponsor ◆ South Fayette Community Day ◆ Thank you!

With a Dollar Bank Home Equity Line of Credit, get the extra cash you need to transform your space for seasonal entertaining and cozy relaxation as the temperatures drop.

Contact our loan experts for help developing the right lending solution for you.

South Fayette Office & Loan Center 160 Millers Run Rd. Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-257-2780 Or visit Dollar.Bank/HELOC to learn more.

Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC. Copyright © 2023, Dollar Bank, Federal Savings Bank.

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BRA374_23

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Questions? 412-221-8700 sfadmin@sftwp.com

SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP

TV & ELECTRONICS RECYCLING FREE* OPEN

TO

HOUSEHOLDS

AND

SMALL

BUSINESSES

Televisions (all types & sizes) Computers & Laptops Monitors (LCD & CRT) Printers, Copiers, Fax Machines & Scanners

Computer mice, keyboards, speakers, cords, wires

Gaming Consoles & Systems Telephones & Radios Microwaves

PROHIBITED Smoke Detectors Loose Batteries Medical Equipment/Waste Curling Irons / Shavers / Personal Hygiene Items Paper Loose Software VCR Tapes/Discs Pianos/Organs Vacuum/Carpet Cleaners General Rubbish

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024 10 AM - 2 PM ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET 151 Parks Road South Fayette, PA 15057 Turn onto Parks Rd at lighted intersection of Millers Run Rd / Route 50 / Parks Rd in Gladden area.

*Items containing Freon / refrigerant are $25 each

Equipment and appliances with a cord are accepted.

South Fayette Connect | Fall 2023 | 49

MISSED PICKUP? SouthFayettePA.com /request

TR A SH & R EC YCLING d

d weekly an Garbage is collecte at weeks. Place bins recycling every 2 y. If a da up ck pi on AM the curb before 6 re on a weekday befo lls fa ay lid ho or maj y. da e on ed on is delay pickup day, collecti bles.

Do not bag recycla ent Waste Managem 66-4460 -8 00 1-8 ◆ m .co wm

South Fayette Township

The South Fayette Township municipal offices and police station are moving in November 2023:

100 Township Drive, South Fayette PA 15017 Ph: 412-221-8700

Web: SouthFayettePA.com

Staff Directory John M. Barrett, Township Manager

Nov.

Dec.

Jan.

Thurs. Nov. 2 Fri. Nov. 3

Thurs. Dec. 7 Fri. Dec. 8

Fri. Jan. 5 Sat. Jan. 6

Trash Collection 1-DAY DELAY DUE TO NEW YEAR'S

Trash Collection Recycling

Trash Collection

Thurs. Nov. 9 Fri. Nov. 10

Thurs. Dec. 14 Fri. Dec. 15

Thurs. Jan. 11 Fri. Jan. 12

Trash Collection

Trash Collection Recycling

Trash Collection Recycling

Thurs. Dec. 21 Fri. Dec. 22

Thurs. Jan. 18 Fri. Jan. 19

Trash Collection

Trash Collection

Fri. Nov. 24 Sat. Nov. 25

Fri. Dec. 29 Sat. Dec. 30

Thurs. Jan. 25 Fri. Jan. 26

Trash Collection 1-DAY DELAY DUE TO THANKSGIVING

Trash Collection Recycling 1-DAY DELAY DUE TO CHRISTMAS

Trash Collection Recycling

Thurs. Nov. 16 Fri. Nov. 17 Trash Collection Recycling

Thurs. Nov. 30 Fri. Dec. 1 Trash Collection Recycling

TV & ELECTRONICS RECYCLING Sat. Jan. 13, 10am-2pm

Original Farmers Market 151 Parks Rd South Fayette Details: p. 49

Thurs. Feb. 1 Fri. Feb. 2 Trash Collection Trash & Recycling Info

Administration

Parks & Recreation

Peggy Patterson, Executive Assistant Shannen McKahan, Finance Officer Patrick J. Catena, Assistant Manager

Paula Willis, Director Ian McNeill, Recreation Coordinator

Communications & Community Development

John R. Phoennik, Chief of Police Dana Korbe, Administrative Assistant Police Business Office: 412-221-2170 Emergency & Dispatch: 9-1-1

Andrea Iglar, Director

Planning, Building & Code

Police

Gary Hartz, Planning/Zoning Director Joe Niedermeyer, Building Code Official John Kanaskie, Engineering/Code Abbey Scheerer, Administrative Assistant

Public Works Vitali Alexandrov, Director Dan Dernosek, Superintendent

Community Resources South Fayette Township Library

412-257-8660, SouthFayetteLibrary.org

South Fayette Area Senior Citizens Association 412-221-3730, SouthFayettePA.com/seniors

South Fayette School District 412-221-4542, SouthFayette.org

Historical Society of South Fayette Township SouthFayettePA.com/history

Tax Collectors

Real Estate Tax, Kevin Biber: 412-221-9250, SouthFayettePA.com/tax Earned Income Tax, Jordan Tax Service: 412-835-5243, JordanTax.com

Municipal Authority (Dye Tests & Sanitary Sewers) 412-257-5100, MATSF.net

Chambers of Commerce

South West: 412-221-4100, SouthWestRegionalChamber.org Pittsburgh Airport Area: 412-264-6270, PAACC.com

Ambulance & Emergency Medical Services

SouthBridge EMS: 412-221-5115, SouthBridgeEMS.com

Volunteer Fire Departments in South Fayette

SF/Cuddy, Fairview, Oak Ridge, Sturgeon: SouthFayettePA.com/fire

Police, Fire & Ambulance: 9-1-1