PITTSBURGH, PA — Pennsylvania is investing another $1 million in the historic New Granada Theater’s redevelopment, allowing construction to begin on the next phase of a project state officials view as a catalyst for economic development and neighborhood revitalization in Pittsburgh’s Hill District.
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis joined local officials and community leaders Friday to mark the completion of the project’s first phase and the launch of phase two, funded through the Shapiro-Davis administration’s Main Streets Matters program. The initiative, established in 2024, provides grants for physical improvements aimed at revitalizing downtown business districts and residential neighborhoods.
The latest round of Main Streets Matters funding attracted more than 220 applications seeking more than $68 million, highlighting demand for redevelopment funding across Pennsylvania. Since taking office, Gov. Josh Shapiro and Davis have secured $40 million for the program and proposed another $20 million in the 2026-27 state budget.
“The New Granada Theater is a cultural icon in the Hill District, and the Main Street Matters investment is helping bring new life to the community,” Davis stated.
Phase one restored key portions of the landmark building, including its historic facades and Art Deco marquee, while completing life safety systems, sidewalk improvements and landscaping. The University of Pittsburgh’s Community Engagement Center is now operating from the building’s third floor, housing the Center for African American Poetry and Poetics, a Jazz Studies studio, and STEAM programming.
The new state funding will finance the first-floor buildout, including a café and lounge, commercial kitchen, Black Box Theater, restrooms, grand staircases, a main entrance, a second elevator, and additional retail and commercial tenant space.
Marimba Milliones, president and chief executive officer of the Hill Community Development Corporation, described the investment as a sign of the state’s commitment to the Hill District’s continued redevelopment.
“We believe that investing in the New Granada project, and the Hill District’s business corridor, signals that Pennsylvania is vested in the ‘Great Return of the Hill,'” Milliones stated.
Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor said the restored theater is expected to create opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs while contributing to broader redevelopment along Centre Avenue.
“Projects like this strengthen neighborhoods, fuel economic growth, and help make Pittsburgh every family’s first choice,” O’Connor stated.
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