As part of an effort to find ways to revitalize Main Street and strengthen local businesses, state Rep. Abigail Salisbury (D-Allegheny) hosted a House Democratic Policy Committee in downtown Swissvale Monday.
Swissvale and Wilkinsburg business owners and community leaders attended the roundtable discussion. They discussed their use of Small Business Administration loans and the Sheriff’s sale process to renovate storefronts. Additionally, the attendees discussed the barriers to assuming property ownership through the conservatorship process.
“As a small business owner and borough council member, I’ve witnessed the challenges that people face when pursuing projects that would be beneficial for all, such as turning unused storefronts into locations for viable businesses,” Salisbury said. “Unfortunately, the process is often too burdensome and expensive for prospective local business owners to take on because it requires experienced lawyers to navigate all the complexities.”
Started in a space rented and renovated last year by chef Gaurav Navin, the restaurant Bombay to Burgh, the attendees toured Swissvale and saw in person the issues that hinder revitalization efforts – including a railroad bridge closure that has affected local business. The more than 100-year-old bridge was shut down in July because of its poor condition. Its closure forced bus lines to be rerouted, as well as delays in emergency crew response times.
“During her time as a councilwoman, Representative Salisbury was asking Norfolk Southern tough questions in order to find solutions to the deteriorating condition of the Washington Avenue Bridge,” Policy Committee Chairman Ryan Bizzarro said. “We’ve met and talked to the people of Swissvale who are ready to make a difference. However, creating a Main Street where business owners want to stay, thrive and live requires infrastructure investments.”