Pittsburgh - An Atlanta Neighborhood

---

Pittsburgh, a charming neighborhood in Atlanta, Georgia, has a rich history and a bright future. Founded in 1883 as a working-class suburb alongside the Pegram rail shops, it earned its name because the industrial area reminded one of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with its famous steel mills. Today, Pittsburgh is a vibrant and developing community, poised for renewal as property values rise in Intown Atlanta neighborhoods.

Location

Nestled conveniently off I-75, Pittsburgh is a gem in the heart of Atlanta. It's within walking distance of downtown, Turner Field, the West End Mall, Grant Park, and the Atlanta Zoo, making it an ideal location for those who love to explore the city. The neighborhood is bounded by I-20 to the north, Metropolitan Parkway and Adair Park to the west, Peoplestown to the east, and the BeltLine to the south. It shares street names and alignments with Mechanicsville, adding to its unique charm and connectivity.

History

The roots of Pittsburgh run deep, with its beginnings as a thriving community in the early 1880s. Owned by real-estate investor H.L. Wilson, Pittsburgh grew alongside Mechanicsville around the Pegram railroad repair shops. The neighborhood was served by four streetcar lines, fostering a well-connected and self-sufficient community. Pittsburgh housed Clark College and two theological seminaries until the 1930s, and its residents included well-educated and enterprising individuals. The neighborhood saw challenges but remained resilient and rich in history.

Pittsburgh Today

In recent years, Pittsburgh has experienced a resurgence, with middle- and upper-income individuals moving back into Intown Atlanta. This influx brought new hope and potential for investment and revitalization. The Pittsburgh Civic League Apartments were replaced with a modern apartment complex, and the BeltLine, forming the neighborhood's southern boundary, promises additional park space, a bicycle path, and plans for light rail with a stop at the corner of University and Metropolitan Avenues. This presents new opportunities for development while preserving the neighborhood's character.

Community and Safety

Pittsburgh's residents are deeply committed to their community. In 2012, a community-driven effort to clean up abandoned tires showcased the neighborhood's dedication to safety and improvement. As of 2021, the area has seen rising home prices and property values, reflecting its growing appeal. Gentrification, inflation, and the housing shortage have led to demographic changes, but Pittsburgh remains a welcoming and evolving community.

Pittsburgh Yards

One of Pittsburgh's most exciting developments is Pittsburgh Yards, a transformative project on a 31.4-acre brownfield along University Avenue and the future BeltLine trail. This area, once dominated by industrial use, is now being revitalized into a vibrant mixed-use space. The project includes high-density development, parks, and improved road connections to neighboring communities. Phase I of Pittsburgh Yards opened in late 2020, featuring 101 leasable coworking spaces, a shared-use construction workshop and kitchen, conference spaces, an amphitheater, and five apartment units. This hub for small businesses and community gatherings is a testament to Pittsburgh's forward-thinking spirit.

Commercial Districts

Pittsburgh boasts a variety of commercial areas, with Metropolitan Parkway on its western border serving as an important thoroughfare. The eastern edge, adjacent to Peoplestown, has a small business and industrial district. McDaniel Street, historically the primary commercial street, houses local businesses and awaits urban renewal to unlock its full potential.

Education and Parks

Families in Pittsburgh are zoned to Atlanta Public Schools, ensuring access to quality education. The neighborhood is also home to a Salvation Army Center for Officer Training. For recreation, Pittman Park offers green space and a place for community members to gather and enjoy outdoor activities.

With its rich history, prime location, and vibrant community spirit, Pittsburgh is truly a great place to live. Whether you're drawn by the convenience, the promise of revitalization, or the strong sense of community, Pittsburgh welcomes you with open arms.