Local

Waterfront owners reverse decision to remove PRT bus services from property

HOMESTEAD, Pa. — The owners of the Waterfront in Homestead have reversed their decision to remove Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus access from their property after reaching an agreement with officials.

PRT announced last week that service on Waterfront property would be removed on Oct. 19.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> PRT bus stops will be removed from inside Waterfront property

Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato said she and others began intervening as soon as the news dropped to find a solution.

On Monday, she said an agreement was reached with Waterfront owners, M&J Wilko Ltd., that will maintain the PRT bus service at the property.

“I want to thank all the parties involved for their willingness to come to the table. We have an agreement in principle to find a long-term solution to keep PRT service inside The Waterfront, and in the interim there will be continued service to existing stops,” said County Executive Innamorato.

Senator Pisciottano worked on maintaining the bus stops there, and released the following statement:

“I want to thank all the parties involved for their willingness to come to the table. We have an agreement in principle to find a long-term solution to keep PRT service inside The Waterfront, and in the interim, there will be continued service to existing stops,” said County Executive Innamorato.

PRT also expressed appreciation for the continued services at the Waterfront.

“On behalf of the more than 400 weekday riders who rely on these stops - and the many community members who spoke out in support of preserving them - Pittsburgh Regional Transit welcomes M&J Wilkow’s decision to reverse course on these bus stops. We are grateful to County Executive Innamorato, Senator Pisciottano, and all those who advocated alongside us for a solution that puts riders first,” PRT Deputy Chief Communications Officer Adam Brandoph said.

M&J Wilko Ltd. said their initial efforts to remove the stops from the property were to “maintain a family-friendly atmosphere, best serve their patrons and allow their retailers the best possible setting to provide their services.”

Representative Summer Lee called for action just days after the Waterfront’s initial action. On Monday, she applauded the progress in maintaining access for transit riders.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Rep. Summer Lee calls for Waterfront to keep PRT bus stops on its property

Lee released the following statement:

“I applaud the news that critical bus services at The Waterfront will continue. This reversal shows the power of our community coming together to demand accessible, reliable public transit. I want to thank all the advocates and riders who raised their voices to ensure our community was heard and I look forward to continuing to work toward a long-term solution that guarantees transit access for every single rider who depends on it.”

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