In this Father's Day special, father - son duo…
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**Content:** In this Father’s day special Michael Morris with Sampson Morris Group discusses how he started his development career with a duplex, recounts educational stories, and gives advice to DL listeners on how they can become a developer. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Brandon Mendoza’s President Message](https://www.credapgh.com/2021-8-24-brandon-mendozas-president-message/) **Published:** August 4, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**On August 4th we will host nearly 800 of the top leaders in the Pittsburgh Commercial Real Estate community at our 28th Annual Awards Banquet. That we can pull this off is a testament to our members’ steadfast support of our chapter. While our…
**Content:** On August 4th we will host nearly 800 of the top leaders in the Pittsburgh Commercial Real Estate community at our 28th Annual Awards Banquet. That we can pull this off is a testament to our members’ steadfast support of our chapter. While our banquets are always a celebration of the top CRE projects in the region, this year’s awards are also a celebration of our region’s resiliency in the face of a global pandemic. We will be celebrating our businesses’ resiliency. We will be celebrating our CRE leaders’ professional resiliency. And, lastly, we will be celebrating our community’s resiliency. Planning this year’s banquet was no small feat. In the fall and winter of 2020, our team had to work with our board of directors, banquet committee, and sponsors to develop a matrix to inform our go/no go decision making. We eventually decided on using vaccination rates as our key metric and decided to move the banquet to Stage AE to take advantage of indoor and outdoor spaces. We are beyond ecstatic that our plans have panned out. I want to thank the members of this year’s Awards Banquet Committee for their time and support in planning of this year’s event. While we are focused on celebrating the CRE community on August 4th, we know there is much work to do on the business climate. We continue to advance our advocacy agenda to encourage policies that further development. We plan to engage the incoming mayoral administration early in the hopes of building strong relationships with the development community. We are also actively engaged in the policy debate regarding the appropriations of Pennsylvania’s American Rescue Plan funding. As stated earlier, while we celebrate our emergence from COVID-19, we remain vigilant about advancing policies that can unleash development. I beyond excited to see many of you on August 4th. Let us toast to our resiliency and to the Pittsburgh CRE community. See you all soon. **Categories:** Blog --- ### [Season 2 Awards Banquet Special S2E10](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2episode10/) **Published:** August 24, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Clayton Morris and the cohosts…
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**Content:** In this episode, Clayton Morris and the cohosts of the NIAOP Pittsburgh Award Banquet; Ashley Koltonski and Brandon Snyder discuss the event and the award winners. [View event photos here](https://flic.kr/s/aHsmWowWaf). **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 2 Episode 11 of MIC DROP Izzy Rudolph & The Highline](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2episode11/) **Published:** October 6, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Izzy Rudolph…
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**Content:** In this episode, Izzy Rudolph with Mcknight Realty Partners discusses their exciting Highline project. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Announces six award winners to be honored for their contributions to CRE during May 28th 33rd Annual NAIOP Awards](https://www.credapgh.com/hello-world/) **Published:** March 14, 2022 **Author:** studios **Content:** **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 7, 2026** – Join us for the 33rd Annual NAIOP Pittsburgh Awards Banquet being held on May 28, 2026 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The largest CRE event in Pittsburgh is anticipated to have 1,000 leaders in Pittsburgh’s commercial real estate industry attend this year’s event. We will honor the strong contributions to the Pittsburgh commercial real estate market, by recognizing six honorees for their work. The six award winners that will be honored for their work include…read full press release [here](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-Announces-six-award-winners-to-be-honored-for-their-contributions-to-CRE-during-May.pdf). **Categories:** Blog --- ### [Season 2 Episode 12 of MIC DROP Night At The Fights & Political Update](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2episode12/) **Published:** November 3, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Brandon Mendoza…
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**Content:** In this episode, Brandon Mendoza discussing the return of Night at the Fights & NAIOP Pittsburgh’s local political advocacy issue & efforts. Listen now https://bit.ly/3aci1qf **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 1 of MIC DROP: Features CBRE's Baldé & Ackerman](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode1/) **Published:** February 17, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, CBRE's Baldé & Ackerman…
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**Content:** This episode features Mamadou B. Baldé Esq. and Jeffrey Ackerman, both of CBRE, discussing what it takes to become a Market Leader and how a Developing Leader can become an industry leader. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC*** and our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 2 of MIC DROP: Features Mekael Teshome](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode2/) **Published:** June 16, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Mekael Teshome.…
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**Content:** In this episode, Mekael Teshome the Vice President and Senior Regional Officer of the Federal Reserve bank of Cleveland discuss how the Federal Reserve evaluates the market and the tools they use to keep the economy healthy. Mekael also describes how he made it to his position. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC*** and our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 5 of MIC DROP: Features Pamela Austin](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode5/) **Published:** October 3, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Pamela Austin.…
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**Content:** In this episode, Pamela Austin, Burns Scalo Real Estate, discusses Pittsburgh’s Strip District’s shift to a highly desirable office location. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released bi-monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC,*** our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects,*** *and our 2022 Hard Hat Sponsor* ***JP’s Contracting.*** **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** construction, CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 4 of MIC DROP: Features John Robinson](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode4/) **Published:** July 12, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, John Robinson.…
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**Content:** In this episode, John Robinson, Vice President of PJ Dick Trumbull, discusses current construction trends and strategies to navigate the current materials market. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC*** and our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** construction, CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 3 of MIC DROP: Features Matt Smith](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode3/) **Published:** June 16, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Matt Smith.…
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**Content:** In this episode, Matt Smith gives an overview of the important work he and the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce do to improve and spur on the local economy. Matt gives insight on current efforts and discusses his path to his position in the Chamber. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC*** and our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, fathers day, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 6 of MIC DROP: Features CEC's Dustin Kuhlman](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode6/) **Published:** December 8, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Dustin Kuhlman…
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**Content:** In this episode, Dustin Kuhlman tells his personal story of how he became the CEO of CEC and discusses the growth of CEC. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released bi-monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC,*** our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects,*** *and our 2022 Hard Hat Sponsor* ***JP’s Contracting.*** **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CEO, construction, CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 7 of MIC DROP: Features David Caliguiri](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode7/) **Published:** December 27, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, David Caliguiri…
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**Content:** In this episode, David Caliguri discusses the impact of the 2022 Midterm elections. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released bi-monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC,*** our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects,*** *and our 2022 Hard Hat Sponsor* ***JP’s Contracting.*** **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CEO, construction, CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 3 Episode 8 of MIC DROP: CBRE's Emily Levinson](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season3episode8/) **Published:** December 27, 2022 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, CBRE’s Emily Levinson and Ashley Koltonski discuss
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**Content:** In this episode, Emily Levinson and Ashley Koltonski discuss the design considerations that went into the CBRE’s new Pittsburgh Office. Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=0862fbe252&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released bi-monthly. This podcast is underwritten by our 2022 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC,*** our 2022 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects,*** *and our 2022 Hard Hat Sponsor* ***JP’s Contracting.*** **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** CEO, construction, CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 4 Episode 1 of MIC DROP: Meyer Unkovic Scott's Jason Yarbrough and Amanda Daquelente](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season4episode1/) **Published:** February 21, 2023 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, In this episode, Meyer Unkovic Scott’s Jason Yarbrough and Amanda Daquelente, discuss the changes to Allegheny County's tax assessment…
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**Content:** In this episode, Jason Yarbrough and Amanda Daquelente, discuss the changes to Allegheny County’s tax assessment, the reasons behind the changes, and what property owners can do. Additional Information on Allegheny County’s Tax assessment changes: [https://www.muslaw.com/assessment/](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=432a7c3a5d&e=04085a4931) Click [here](https://naioppittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3c1ec6936779a90596373ea44&id=2739a9fd52&e=04085a4931) to listen or find us on your favorite podcast service. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** podcast is underwritten by our 2023 Podcast Sponsor, ***Duquesne Light***. Thank you to our 2023 Developing Leader Annual Sponsor ***RIDC,*** our 2023 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects,*** *and our 2023 Hard Hat Sponsor* ***JP’s Contracting.*** [](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Mamadou-Balde-and-Jeffrey-Ackerman--S3E1-e1d97k3) **Categories:** YouTube **Tags:** AlleghenyCo, AlleghenyCounty, CRE, CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast, TaxAssessment --- ### [Pittsburgh preps for NFL Draft's economic impact, aiming to outdo Taylor Swift shows](https://www.credapgh.com/pittsburgh-preps-for-nfl-draft-s-economic-impact-aiming-to-outdo-taylor-swift-sh/) **Published:** March 20, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **March 20, 2025** – [PBT Article: *Pittsburgh preps for NFL Draft’s economic impact, aiming to outdo Taylor Swift shows*](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2025/03/20/steelers-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-detroit-north-shore.html) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Chapman Properties announcement for the Washington Mall](https://www.credapgh.com/chapman-properties-announcement-for-the-washington-mall/) **Published:** July 30, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** Last week our Executive Director, Tom Frank, had the opportunity to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Washington Mall Redevelopment Project, hosted by the development team of 79/70 Associates and Chapman Properties. The groundbreaking ceremony showcased the strengths of Washington County’s leadership when aligned with private development. Our NAIOP President, Nate Phillips served as the Master of Ceremony while leaders of the team and public officials discussed the impact of demolishing a once vibrant, now decaying highway-front property and the plans to build prominent retail real estate. The announced projects include a new Costco, a Campers Inn and a new building for the Harbor Freight on the 66-acre redevelopment. Some of the key presenters included Tony Rosenberger, Chapman Properties CEO, Bob Weber, South Strabane Township Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, County Board of Commissioners, Nick Sherman (Chairman), Electra Janis (Vice Chair) and Larry Maggi (Commissioner), Bob Griffin of the Redevelopment Authority of Washington County, PA State Senator Camera Bartolotta, and PA State Rep Tim O’Neal. To showcase this alignment of private development and government, the Commissioners have allocated $5.9 million from the county’s blight mitigation funds to demolish the existing mall. Tony ended the ceremony with a laugh stating “Mr. Commissioner, tear down this mall!” just before the speakers took sledgehammers to mall, adding a fun twist to a typical groundbreaking ceremony. View photos from the event below. Additional articles and information about this project can be found at the following links: - [https://www.observer-reporter.com/news/local-news/2025/jun/19/demolition-of-washington-mall-expected-to-cost-5-9-million/](https://www.observer-reporter.com/news/local-news/2025/jun/19/demolition-of-washington-mall-expected-to-cost-5-9-million/ "https://www.observer-reporter.com/news/local-news/2025/jun/19/demolition-of-washington-mall-expected-to-cost-5-9-million/") - [https://www.post-gazette.com/business/development/2025/07/18/washington-county-pa-mall-destruction-costco/stories/202507180081](https://www.post-gazette.com/business/development/2025/07/18/washington-county-pa-mall-destruction-costco/stories/202507180081 "https://www.post-gazette.com/business/development/2025/07/18/washington-county-pa-mall-destruction-costco/stories/202507180081") - [https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/demolition-blighted-washington-mall-begins-excitement-builds-incoming-costco/LPARKIVYQJDXHFVKEASBJLG7JQ/](https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/demolition-blighted-washington-mall-begins-excitement-builds-incoming-costco/LPARKIVYQJDXHFVKEASBJLG7JQ/ "https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/demolition-blighted-washington-mall-begins-excitement-builds-incoming-costco/LPARKIVYQJDXHFVKEASBJLG7JQ/")           **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Fall 2025 President’s Message](https://www.credapgh.com/fall-2025-presidents-message/) **Published:** August 29, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **August 29, 2025** – Fall 2025 President’s Message **Categories:** Blog --- ### [PA SITES Awards Boost Shovel-Ready Sites, Spotlight NAIOP Members](https://www.credapgh.com/pa-sites-awards-boost-shovel-ready-sites-spotlight-naiop-members/) **Published:** October 10, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** Governor Josh Shapiro has [unveiled](https://dced.pa.gov/newsroom/governor-shapiro-announces-new-pa-sites-awards-investing-over-39-million-in-11-projects-across-the-commonwealth-to-create-hundreds-of-jobs-and-build-shovel-ready-sites-for-businesses/ "https://dced.pa.gov/newsroom/governor-shapiro-announces-new-pa-sites-awards-investing-over-39-million-in-11-projects-across-the-commonwealth-to-create-hundreds-of-jobs-and-build-shovel-ready-sites-for-businesses/") the latest round of PA SITES funding, allocating more than $39 million to 11 initiatives across Pennsylvania. The effort focuses on readying industrial properties for swift business expansion, fostering job growth and bolstering the state’s economic foundation. NAIOP Pittsburgh members are at the forefront of several recipients. Imperial Land Corporation secured a $5.2 million grant and $2.5 million loan to advance phases two and three of the Fort Cherry Development District in Washington County’s Robinson Township. This ongoing initiative will expand roadways and utilities across sites poised for up to 6 million square feet of industrial, flexible, and office space. The Fort Cherry Development was a stop along the NAIOP Bus Tour earlier this year in partnership with the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Separately, SunCap Property Group, through its ownership of Nichol Avenue McKees Rocks LLC, received $6 million for phase two of a 72-acre former brownfield in Allegheny County’s Stowe Township. The investment will cover environmental cleanup, rail enhancements, and site improvements to support a 283,000-square-foot modern distribution center, plus options for custom builds on parcels from 5 to 20 acres. Furthermore, SunCap Property Group’s, Bill Palmer, will be a panelist at our October Chapter Breakfast [Turning Policy into Profit: Navigating the New Era of Tax Credits & Opportunity Zones — NAIOP](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events/2025/october/chaptermtg "https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events/2025/october/chaptermtg") These awards follow the program’s [inaugural distribution in May](https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/gov-shapiro-first-pa-sites-grant-awards--64m-11-projects-across- "https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/gov-shapiro-first-pa-sites-grant-awards--64m-11-projects-across-"), where NAIOP member Regional Industrial Development Corporation (RIDC) obtained close to $7 million to restore structures at the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park in Westmoreland County. Drawing from a historic Alcoa campus spanning 1.2 million square feet across 12 buildings, the upgrades are converting the site into a contemporary center for advanced manufacturing, light industry, and technology-flex operations, starting with 130,000 square feet of revitalized space. Earlier this year, RIDC’s RE:Build Manufacturing located in the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park won the NAIOP Award for Best Industrial Renovation Project. The partnership between the Westmoreland County Industrial Development Corporation (WCIDC) and RIDC at the manufacturing park showcases their commitment to revitalization in the region. Programs like PA SITES are essential for overcoming obstacles in site development, turning idle land into productive assets that draw investment to Pennsylvania. With over $113 million now invested in 29 ventures, it underscores a steady commitment to practical economic progress that NAIOP supports and advocates for. To engage with professionals shaping such projects, join NAIOP Pittsburgh. **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Announces the Launch of our Brand New Job Board](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-announces-the-launch-of-our-brand-new-job-board/) **Published:** January 19, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:**  NAIOP Pittsburgh launched its Job Board to strengthen our commitment to developing both our members and the next generation of commercial real estate professionals. By connecting employers with emerging talent across the Pittsburgh region, the Job Board serves as a direct extension of our mission to educate, engage, and elevate the CRE community. Alongside initiatives like our [**Skyline Academy**](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/skylineacademy "https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/skylineacademy") and our University Membership, the Job Board helps create clear pathways into the industry—supporting entry-level roles, internships, and long-term career growth within commercial real estate. **Categories:** Blog --- ### [Setting the Stage for 2026: Key Takeaways from the PRA & NAIOP Pittsburgh Real Estate Breakfast](https://www.credapgh.com/setting-the-stage-for-2026-key-takeaways-from-the-pra-naiop-pittsburgh-real-esta/) **Published:** January 22, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** Hey everyone, Tom Frank here, Executive Director of NAIOP Pittsburgh. This morning, I had the pleasure of attending the 2026 Pittsburgh Regional Alliance (PRA) & NAIOP Pittsburgh Real Estate Breakfast, an event we proudly partner on and sponsor with the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance. What a way to start the year… great coffee, even better conversations, and a room full of folks buzzing about the future of our region. Let’s dive into the highlights. First off, a huge thank you to the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance for inviting us to partner on this fantastic event. Special shoutouts to Matt Smith, Patty Horvatich, Jordan Jasper & the PRA team for hosting and making it all happen seamlessly. And let’s not forget Point Park University for graciously hosting us in their beautiful space at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. To kick things off, Mayor Corey O’Connor took the stage, and it was refreshing to hear his updates straight from City Hall. He dove into the TRID (Transit Revitalization Investment District) they’re developing with the URA, which has us all excited about smarter urban growth. Plus, his first executive order on permitting reform? Game-changer material. We’re especially grateful that the Mayor’s team has engaged NAIOP Pittsburgh throughout the process thus far. Collaboration like that is what will keep Pittsburgh moving forward. A quick nod to Steve Wray and Mary McKinney Flaherty from his administration, who were there representing the push for economic growth in our region. Their presence reminds us that big things happen when everyone rows in the same direction. Next up was Panel 1, focusing on Business PA and PA Sites. We heard from Justine Belyus, Executive Director of Business Marketing at BusinessPA; Ali Doyle, Managing Director of Business Attraction at BusinessPA; and Ryan Emerson, Director of Grants at the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. The panelists broke down the PA Site Search website, strategies for attracting businesses to our area, and the ins and outs of the PA Sites Program. It’s always eye-opening to see how these tools are putting Pennsylvania, and especially our corner of it, on the map for new opportunities. Then it was my turn at the mic, and I couldn’t help but share the palpable enthusiasm rippling through our industry right now. For the first time in a while, we’ve got real alignment between state and local governments. Both administrations are all-in on economic development, streamlining permitting, and creating a pro-building environment. I highlighted our advocacy work, like teaming up with the Mayor’s crew on those permitting reforms, pushing for enhancements to the governor’s SPEED Program, and urging the state to bolster the PA Sites fund with more funding overall, plus a fairer share for the western side of Pennsylvania. I wrapped up my time by touching on our ongoing energy legislation efforts, noting that “speed to power” is one of the biggest hurdles we’re facing in the region. But hey, we’ve got ideas for rural industrial programs that could turn that challenge into a win. It also set the stage perfectly for the next panel, featuring our own NAIOP Pittsburgh Board member Brian Temple. Speaking of which, the second panel brought together NAIOP Pittsburgh Board Member Brian Temple, NAIOP Pittsburgh Past President Jim Scalo, and Mike Brady of Liberty Energy (who’s also lent his expertise to our energy legislation). These gentlemen zeroed in on the Fort Cherry Development, which tied right back to the first panel since Brian’s company, Imperial Land Corp, snagged funding from the PA Sites Program. Mike Brady shared how, in partnership with Range Resources, they’ve implemented an on-site microgrid at Fort Cherry. This is a prime example of innovative energy solutions meeting real-world development needs. It showcases practical, forward-thinking stuff that had the crowd nodding along. Jim Scalo also spoke to the development’s progress as an owner of a phase 1 parcel and to the strengths of its location, noting that sites with access to surrounding amenities have greater potential for growth and opportunity. He concluded the panel by saying “*the industry sees optimism returning to CRE in 2026 and heaven in 2027*.” Wrapping the event up, Matt Smith brought his signature optimism to the stage, tying together the threads of the morning. He emphasized that alignment between state and local governments is key and painted a bright picture for Pittsburgh’s future. It’s hard not to leave feeling pumped after hearing that kind of vision. On a personal note, advocacy has always been at the heart of what we do at NAIOP Pittsburgh. Today was a fun reminder of our chapter’s legacy. We had Past Presidents Jim Scalo and Lou Oliva in attendance, who, in collaboration with other Board Members of that time, championed the missing ramps project back in the 1990s, one of our chapter’s earliest advocacy wins. Fast-forward to now, and under the leadership of current Chapter President Nate Phillips, Immediate Past President Brandon Snyder, and President-elect Alyssa Kunselman, we’re making serious headway on initiatives like the SPEED Program, energy legislation, and local permitting reforms. It was awesome to see so many of our NAIOP Pittsburgh Board and Committee Members at today’s event, too. Board Members: Jackie Bezek from JLL, Tyler Noland from PenTrust, and our lobbyist David Caliguiri from C&G Strategies. And Committee Members: Tom Baughman from Chicago Title, Chris Cooper from PJ Dick, Paul Messineo from Allen + Shariff, Dom Broglia from ARCO Design/Build, Matt Smith from Triad Engineering, and Pat Byrne from Merus. You all make this chapter the powerhouse it is. Thanks for showing up and keeping the momentum going! **Categories:** Blog --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Announces six award winners to be honored for their contributions to CRE during May 28th 33rd Annual NAIOP Awards](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-announces-six-award-winners-to-be-honored-for-their-contributio/) **Published:** April 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 7, 2026** – Join us for the 33rd Annual NAIOP Pittsburgh Awards Banquet being held on May 28, 2026 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The largest CRE event in Pittsburgh is anticipated to have 1,000 leaders in Pittsburgh’s commercial real estate industry attend this year’s event. We will honor the strong contributions to the Pittsburgh commercial real estate market, by recognizing six honorees for their work. The six award winners that will be honored for their work include…read full press release [here](/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-Announces-six-award-winners-to-be-honored-for-their-contributions-to-CRE-during-May.pdf).  **Categories:** Blog --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh is proud to share outstanding recognition from the 2026 NAIOP Chapter Leadership & Legislative Retreat in Washington, D.C.](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-is-proud-to-share-outstanding-recognition-from-the-2026-naiop-c/) **Published:** February 3, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:**  Our chapter received three prestigious awards during this week’s event at the Capital Hilton, for our work completed in 2025: Tom Frank was honored with the Outstanding Leadership by a Chapter Executive award, Nate Phillips received the Outstanding Leadership by a Chapter President award, and NAIOP Pittsburgh was named NAIOP’s Chapter of the Year. These achievements reflect the dedication and collaborative efforts of our entire leadership team and membership. Joining Tom and Nate in Washington are [**\#NAIOPPittsburgh**](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/naioppittsburgh?__eep__=6&__cft__[0]=AZYEgL0W3LCYcPKFncTvizZS9p4_UmwrKQfk0Sn1LmOlIGP6NqSiRXbZAts_fG_pi9IF3sKdxYNA7vBAFpukzgV2-akoMQO0_X2mIWHaXBVEn3VCJg5ICxoM_tMxpL3EEXqusr_gCyJT3FL71dQDKpqf&__tn__=*NK-R) Past President Brandon Snyder, Secretary Clayton Morris, Board Members Kelsey Kanspedos, R.L.A., Jackie Bezek, Aaron Roach, and Benjamin Kelley, along with Chapter Lobbyist David Caliguiri, Chapter Administrator Erica Loftus, and Advocacy Committee Member Lance Chimka. Tomorrow, our delegation takes these priorities to Capitol Hill for meetings with Pennsylvania’s congressional representatives. Our advocacy focus centers on three critical federal priorities that directly impact commercial real estate development and economic growth: comprehensive energy policies to address the surging demand for electricity driven by data centers, manufacturing, and electrification; adaptive reuse incentives through the bipartisan Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act to convert underutilized commercial buildings into housing; and continued investment in transportation infrastructure essential to supporting development and commerce. These federal priorities align with our mission to advance responsible commercial real estate development while addressing the evolving needs of our communities and economy. **Categories:** Blog --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Advocates for Commercial Real Estate Industry on Capitol Hill](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-advocates-for-commercial-real-estate-industry-on-capitol-hill/) **Published:** February 20, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/19.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/18.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/17.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/16.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/15-scaled.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/14-scaled.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/12-scaled.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/10small.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/8.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/6.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/4.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-scaled.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2-scaled.webp) [](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/1.webp) In early February, NAIOP Pittsburgh traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation and advocate for critical commercial real estate policies. Our delegation included: Chapter Executive Director Tom Frank, Chapter Administrator Erica Loftus, Chapter President Nate Phillips, Chapter Past President and NAIOP National Board Member Brandon Snyder, Board Members Jackie Bezek, Clayton Morris, Kelsey Kanspedos, and Ben Kelley, Advocacy Committee Member Lance Chimka, and NAIOP Pittsburgh Lobbyist David Caliguiri of C&G Strategies. **Meetings with Pennsylvania Leadership** Our team met with Senator McCormick and representatives from the offices of Congressman Reschenthaler, Congressman Deluzio, and Senator Fetterman. These productive conversations focused on three key priorities affecting the commercial real estate industry and economic development in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and across the nation. **Our 2026 Federal Advocacy Priorities:** - **Adaptive Reuse and Housing Affordability** We urged Congress to pass the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410), which would create a 20% tax credit to offset the costs of converting vacant commercial buildings into residential housing. With office vacancy rates at a three-decade high of 20.1% and a shortage of 4.3 million rental housing units needed by 2035, this bipartisan legislation offers communities a vital tool to address both challenges simultaneously. - **Electrification and Energy Policy** We advocated for comprehensive federal energy policies to meet surging electricity demand, including investment in grid expansion and modernization, permitting reform for energy projects, and increased regional coordination. Many commercial real estate projects are currently being delayed or abandoned because utilities cannot guarantee sufficient electricity capacity for data centers, manufacturing facilities, and other critical developments. - **Transportation and Infrastructure** We called on Congress to pass an early reauthorization of surface transportation programs before they expire on September 30, 2026, with at least current funding levels maintained and streamlined permitting processes. Modern, efficient infrastructure is essential for commercial real estate development, and timely reauthorization provides the certainty states and localities need to plan multiyear projects. Stay tuned for more advocacy updates and head over to the [advocacy page](https://www.credapgh.com/advocacy/) on our website to learn more! **Categories:** Blog --- ### [Corey O'Connor's Inauguration and Delivering on Promises from Day One](https://www.credapgh.com/corey-o-connor-s-inauguration-and-delivering-on-promises-from-day-one/) **Published:** January 6, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** [Downloadable Blog Post Here](/s/Blog-Post-Corey-OConnors-Inauguration-and-Delivering-on-Promises-from-Day-One.pdf). Yesterday, January 5, 2026, I had the honor of attending Corey O’Connor’s inauguration as the 62nd Mayor of Pittsburgh at Carnegie Music Hall. The event was filled with a clear vision for a brighter future where he underscored economic development as a priority. It was inspiring to see so many past mayors in attendance, including Ed Gainey, Tom Murphy, Luke Ravenstahl, and Bill Peduto. Their presence highlighted the continuity of leadership and shared dedication to our city’s success. Furthermore, there were many elected officials in the crowd including City Council, County Executive Sara Innamorato, Representative Deluzio, State Representative Robinson, State Representative Costa, State Senator Fontana, and more. Governor Josh Shapiro delivered an exceptional speech, stressing that Pennsylvania’s future is deeply connected to the growth and prosperity of Pittsburgh. His words set an optimistic tone for collaboration at every level. For those who do not know me well, I have loved golf since I was seven years old. So, when I noticed Neal Shipley sitting behind the Mayor, I quickly flipped through the agenda and saw he was a speaker for the event. For those who do not know, Neal famously beat Tiger Woods on Sunday at the Masters in Augusta… not to win the masters, but a feat none-the-less. During his speech I learned that Corey was his golf coach back at Central Catholic High School where they won a state championship. In his powerful inaugural address, Corey declared, “It’s time to become a city of hope and optimism, where your dreams can come true. A Pittsburgh where we, each and every time, we get to yes.” The celebrations continued with an awesome inauguration party at the Museum Lab and Children’s Museum where I had the pleasure of seeing many influential people in our city. A special thank you to Steve Mazza from the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters for inviting me to the day of festivities. What truly excites me is how Mayor O’Connor wasted no time delivering on his campaign promises. On his very first full day in office, he signed his first executive order focused on permitting reform. This move directly addresses the long-standing delays in the city’s permitting processes, which have hindered homeowners, small businesses, and developers alike. The order directs key departments (including Permits, Licenses and Inspections; Planning; and Mobility and Infrastructure) to review their procedures, identify barriers, and submit recommendations within 60 days to streamline approvals—without changing community input, planning, or zoning rules. O’Connor emphasized that “Permitting is the number one priority in growing Pittsburgh,” and that speeding up these processes will help the city thrive. I’m genuinely enthusiastic about this Day 1 Executive Order. It shows real commitment to making Pittsburgh more business-friendly, efficient, and open for growth. By tackling bureaucratic hurdles head-on, Mayor O’Connor is already making our city a better place to live, work, and build. This is just the beginning of a hopeful, action-oriented administration. **Categories:** Blog --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Congratulates Elected Officials Who Will Shape Our Shared Future](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-congratulates-elected-officials-who-will-shape-our-shared-futur/) **Published:** November 5, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** [Downloadable Blog Post Here](/s/NAIOP-Blog-Post-110525.pdf). The results of Pittsburgh’s 2025 election provide a solid platform for continued progress in commercial real estate and city development. On behalf of NAIOP Pittsburgh, congratulations to the elected officials who will shape our shared future. Congratulations to Mayor Corey O’Connor on his well-run campaign that resonated with the CRE community. NAIOP Pittsburgh aligns with Corey’s vision for a better Pittsburgh, one centered on practical reforms, increasing the competitiveness of our city, and effective public-private partnerships that drive economic growth. In Pittsburgh City Council, congratulations to City Council President, Dan Lavelle on his re-election to an unprecedented fifth term. Dan has worked tirelessly in providing an affordable and safe Pittsburgh and has always had an open-door policy for anyone who wants a better future for Pittsburgh. We look forward to working further with the Councilman on issues that shape our skyline. Congratulations to City Councilman Anthony Coghill, my representative, on re-election to a third term. A roofer by training, Anthony understands common-sense development. His ongoing work in neighborhood development is a hallmark of NAIOP Pittsburgh. Congratulations to City Councilwoman Erika Strassburger on her re-election to a third term. Erika’s leadership on the inclusionary zoning debate has brought a thoughtful and much-needed perspective to the discussion. NAIOP Pittsburgh looks forward to continued collaboration with her as we work toward practical, inclusive housing solutions. Last but certainly not least, congratulations to our newest City Councilmember Kim Salinetro. Kim is no stranger to City Council, having served the public for more than sixteen years as Chief of Staff to Councilwoman Kail-Smith. We look forward to seeing how her years of experience and dedication will positively impact our community. Finally, we would also like to extend our gratitude to Councilwoman Kail-Smith for her years of service on the Pittsburgh City Council. A member of Council since 2009, she has served as chairperson for the Committee on Public Works, Citiparks, Public Safety, and has served as Council President Pro Tempore, and served two terms as Council President. She has been a friend to the development community and will be missed! We look forward to working with this leadership team on issues that benefit the city of Pittsburgh. Our door is always open for dialogue and partnership. **Categories:** Blog --- ### [A Win for Balanced Housing: NAIOP Pittsburgh Celebrates Passage of Strassburger Amendments to IZ Legislation](https://www.credapgh.com/a-win-for-balanced-housing-naiop-pittsburgh-celebrates-passage-of-strassburger-a/) **Published:** October 16, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** [Downloadable Blog Post Here](/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-Blog-Post-IZ-Oct-16-2025-mzyk.pdf). In a closely watched 5-4 vote on October 15, 2025, Pittsburgh City Council Approved Councilwoman Erika Strassburger’s amendments to Mayor Ed Gainey’s Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) legislation. This pivotal moment marks a significant step forward for our city’s housing future, one that prioritizes collaboration, flexibility, and sustainable development without stifling the private market’s ability to deliver much-needed homes. NAIOP Pittsburgh has been vocal throughout this process. We did not support the Mayor’s original proposal, which imposed a tax on new housing projects and would slow housing production in a market already struggling to keep pace with demand. Instead, we endorse Councilwoman Strassburger’s amendments, which represent a balanced, voluntary approach that incentivizes affordable housing. **Our Advocacy: A Long-Term Commitment to Constructive Dialogue** Our efforts to shape a housing-friendly outcome began in January, in anticipation of the Planning Commission Hearing. Chapter President Nate Phillips, along with Tyler Noland, Ben Kelley, Lynn DeLorenzo, Tom Frank, and our Lobbyist from C&G Strategies, David Caliguiri, engaged directly with multiple City Council members utilizing data-driven information from many of our Principal Members and Jeff Burd of the Tall Timber Group. We expressed how these mandates can inadvertently slow construction, raise building costs, and raise the price of rent. The chapter carried that momentum to the Planning Commission Hearing, where Nate and Tom delivered testimony highlighting the potential pitfalls of a rigid IZ model. Despite the Commission’s positive recommendation, an outcome we actively opposed, we didn’t back down. Post-hearing, we continued to meet with Council, offering insights into how flexible policies can boost housing supply without compromising quality. We shared best practices from other markets, with input from those NAIOP chapters. We also aligned with like-minded allies such as the Allegheny Conference, Pro Housing Pittsburgh, and the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. We then attended the Public Hearing on the Mayor’s legislation, providing pointed comments against its more prescriptive elements. We rallied our members, too, encouraging and witnessing your strong turnout to voice concerns firsthand. These grassroots efforts amplified our message and underscored the broad developer consensus for change. When Councilwoman Strassburger introduced her amendments shortly after, we reviewed her proposal and saw real promise. It outlined a voluntary program with options like payment in lieu at $25 per square foot, off-site units within a half-mile radius, and a two-year lookback period for ongoing refinements – all strategies that are being tested in other cities. In response, we wrote a letter of support and distributed it to all Council members. The full letter is available [here](/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-Letter-of-Support-for-the-Affordable-Housing-Bonus-Program.pdf), and we encourage you to read it for the full depth of our endorsement. **Looking Ahead: Back to Planning Commission and Beyond** With the October 15th passage, the amendments head back to the Planning Commission for review, a standard procedural step that gives us another opportunity to refine and fortify this framework. We’re optimistic about the path forward and remain committed to partnering with stakeholders to implement the Affordable Housing Bonus Program (AHBP) effectively. This victory isn’t just about policy; it’s a testament to what persistent, collaborative advocacy can achieve. Thank you to our members, partners at the Allegheny Conference, Pro Housing Pittsburgh, Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, Councilwoman Strassburger, Councilwoman Kail-Smith, Councilman Charland, Councilman Wilson and Councilman Coghill, for championing a smarter way to build. What’s next for Pittsburgh’s housing landscape? Stay tuned to NAIOP Pittsburgh for updates, and if you’re a developer navigating these changes, reach out to Tom Frank at . *NAIOP Pittsburgh: Advancing commercial real estate development for a thriving region. Learn more at* [*www.naioppittsburgh.com*](http://www.naioppittsburgh.com)*.* **Categories:** Blog --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh attends AIA Architecture Week](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-attends-aia-architecture-week/) **Published:** October 7, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** On October 7, 2025, NAIOP Pittsburgh joined forces with AIA Pittsburgh for an electrifying panel during Architecture Week: **Driving Downtown: A Panel Discussion on Spurring Growth**. Hosted at Strada Architecture in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this midday event brought together industry leaders to tackle one of Pittsburgh’s biggest challenges: reigniting economic vitality in our urban core. Moderated by Endicott “Endy” Reindl, AIA Pittsburgh’s Executive Director, the conversation wove together threads of mobility, infrastructure, placemaking, and commercial real estate—proving that collaboration is the key to unlocking our city’s potential. Kicking things off, Endy spotlighted Governor Josh Shapiro’s recent blueprint for Downtown Pittsburgh’s revival—a bold, 10-year strategy announced last fall to flood the area with housing, spruce up public spaces, and boost affordability and safety. With a nod to adaptive reuse projects at the forefront, the panel dove into how these initiatives could catalyze investment and population growth. Enter Aaron Sukenik, Vice President of District Development at the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP). Aaron painted a vivid picture: Pittsburgh’s population, or lack thereof, is a well-known talking point, but targeted multifamily developments could flip the script. By drawing in residents, we’d lure national retail chains and increase retail development He also hyped PDP’s Market Square facelift as a way to ensure vibrancy. He also envisions a “rebalanced” Golden Triangle real estate portfolio – less office glut, more mixed-use & multifamily – to fuel sustainable growth. Building on Aaron’s momentum, NAIOP’s own Brian Walker, President of NAI Burns Scalo, brought the developer’s perspective. “Perseverance is everything in adaptive reuse,” he stressed, unpacking the realities: high interest rates, high construction costs, and the high cost of capital that often leave projects in a funding gap. Brian’s takeaway? Bridging these gaps demands public-private partnerships (P3s)—but only if developers double as true community stewards. His call for balanced incentives resonated, reminding us that smart policy can turn hurdles into high-rises. Lisa Carver, AIA, Principal at PWWG Architects, rounded out the trio with a dose of architectural heart. Showcasing PWWG’s portfolio of urban redevelopments, she emphasized that every project, and every resident, is one-of-a-kind. Context is king: sensitive adaptive reuse honors history while welcoming tomorrow’s diverse tenants. As a proud Downtown walker who commutes on foot, Lisa portrayed optimism. She sketched a thriving Pittsburgh, walkable, inclusive, and buzzing with housing options across income levels. The mic-drop moment came with the Endy’s big question: “What can the public sector do to spur development?” The panel’s answer was nearly unanimous: Slash the red tape. Streamline permitting, zoning, and DOMI approvals. Increase utility coordination. These aren’t pie-in-the-sky wishes – they have become NAIOP Pittsburgh’s local advocacy committees North Star, with our committee working hard to develop suggestions for the incoming administration. Walking away, I’m channeling Lisa’s hope, Aaron’s blueprint, and Brian’s knowledge. Pittsburgh’s future is bright. There are solutions to the problems. Let’s continue to preserve and make Pittsburgh a destination for business and living. Let’s keep the momentum: Join NAIOP, amplify our voice, and turn vision into reality. *For more on AIA Pittsburgh’s Architecture Week (October 3–10, 2025), check out their full calendar* [*here*](https://aiapgh.org/events/architecture-week-2025/ "https://aiapgh.org/events/architecture-week-2025/")*. And stay tuned to NAIOP for updates on our red-tape-busting efforts.* Tom Frank NAIOP Pittsburgh Executive Director  **Categories:** Blog --- ### [How power capacity challenges could threaten industrial growth in Pittsburgh region](https://www.credapgh.com/how-power-capacity-challenges-could-threaten-industrial-growth-in-pittsburgh-reg/) **Published:** July 2, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **July 2, 2025** – [PBT Article: *How power capacity challenges could threaten industrial growth in Pittsburgh region*](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2025/07/02/power-capacity-challenges-industrial-growth.html) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Advocates in Harrisburg](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-advocates-in-harrisburg/) **Published:** May 15, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **May 15, 2025** – [NAIOP Pittsburgh Advocates in Harrisburg](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-Advocates-in-Harrisburg-May-15-2025.pdf) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Announces eight award winners to be honored for their work in 2024, at May 22nd 32nd Annual Awards](https://www.credapgh.com/naiop-pittsburgh-announces-eight-award-winners-to-be-honored-for-their-work-in-2/) **Published:** April 10, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **April 10, 2025** –[ ](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-2025-Awardee-Announcement-fcfd.pdf)[NAIOP Pittsburgh Announces eight award winners to be honored for their work in 2024, at May 22nd 32nd Annual Awards](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/NAIOP-Pittsburgh-2025-Awardee-Announcement2.pdf) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Update from our Executive Director](https://www.credapgh.com/update-from-our-executive-director/) **Published:** February 17, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** During the first week of February, NAIOP Pittsburgh attended the annual Chapter Leadership & Legislative Retreat, also known as CL&LR, hosted by NAIOP Corporate.        Accompanied me on this trip were our Chapter President, Nate Phillips; Chapter Administrator, Erica Loftus; Chapter Advocacy Consultant, David Caliguiri; and a portion of our Chapter Board Members: Clayton Morris, Jackie Bezek, Aaron Roach, Stacey Weniger, and Brian Walker, who just rolled off as our Corporate Board Chair. This three-day retreat consisted of seminars where we were able to take away benchmarks on how to make our chapter the best it can be. This year’s conference Keynote Speaker was Scott Jennings, a CNN Contributor, serving as a conservative voice for day-to-day politics on their broadcast. Scott was entertaining, to say the least, answering tough questions from the crowd and reminding us that politics is like a pendulum. In addition to intriguing speakers and networking with industry leaders, we were afforded opportunities to create valuable connections with other NAIOP Chapters from across North America, including the newly formed NAIOP Detroit Chapter. Detroit is where the 2024 NFL Draft took place and we had a first-hand discussion about the upcoming 2026 NLF Draft with key players involved in the 2024 project. One of the NAIOP Detroit members, Andrea Daniewski of Bedrock Detroit, will be a speaker at our March 20th Chapter Breakfast focused on the NFL Draft. We also discussed advocacy issues with NAIOP Massachusetts, arguably the most advocacy-focused chapter in NAIOP. Their insight into how they approach advocacy in their region will serve as a stepping stone to our Pittsburgh and state efforts. We spent time with our counterparts from the NAIOP Philadelphia Chapter and look forward to continuing our mutual efforts for the betterment of CRE in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Lastly, we spent our final day on Capitol Hill, where we met with Senators and Representatives who represent NAIOP and its members. The highlight of our time on Capitol Hill included meeting with Senator Dave McCormick and Senator Fetterman’s aide, Madeleine Marr. We also had the opportunity to meet with aides from the offices of Congressman Guy Reschenthaler, Congressman Mike Kelly, and Congressman Chris Deluzio. During our time with our elected officials, we were able to speak to the *NAIOP Corporate Advocacy Initiatives,* which include the increased energy demand facing our nation, a push for Congress to further incentivize the adaptive reuse of vacant buildings, and new tax legislation that renews the expiring provisions of the *Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017*. **To read more about the three key initiatives, download the one pagers below:** - [Adaptive Reuse](/s/ga_fedissues_adaptivereuse-2025.pdf) - [Energy & Electricity](/s/ga_fedissues_energy-2025.pdf) - [Tax Policy](/s/ga_fedissues_taxpolicy-2025.pdf) We encourage each of our members to print out the one pagers mentioned above and reach out to your elected officials, advocating on how these issues and policies will affect your business. > When a large number of people contact their representatives about a particular issue, it can create a powerful and compelling sense of urgency. – medium.com  **Categories:** Blog --- ### [Message from Executive Director, Tom Frank, Importance on Being An Advocate](https://www.credapgh.com/message-from-executive-director-tom-frank-importance-on-being-an-advocate/) **Published:** February 14, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **February 14, 2025** – Message from Executive Director, Tom Frank, *Importance on Being An Advocate* **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Nominations Open to honor strong contributions to Pittsburgh CRE Market at 32nd Annual Awards on May 22, 2025.](https://www.credapgh.com/nominations-open-to-honor-strong-contributions-to-pittsburgh-cre-market-at-32nd/) **Published:** January 21, 2025 **Author:** studios **Content:** **January 21, 2025** – [Nominations Open to honor strong contributions to Pittsburgh CRE Market at 32nd Annual Awards on May 22, 2025.](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events/2025/awardsbanquet) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Kelsey Kanspedos & Sabreena Miller named 2024 Developing Leaders Award Winner](https://www.credapgh.com/kelsey-kanspedos-sabreena-miller-named-2024-developing-leaders-award-winner/) **Published:** August 15, 2024 **Author:** studios **Content:** **August 15, 2024** – [Kelsey Kanspedos & Sabreena Miller named 2024 Developing Leaders Award Winner](https://www.naiop.org/news/naiop-news/2024/dla-24-winners/) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Sabreena Miller, NAIOP Pittsburgh DL, Recipient of Prologis Inclusion in CRE Scholarship](https://www.credapgh.com/sabreena-miller-naiop-pittsburgh-dl-recipient-of-prologis-inclusion-in-cre-schol/) **Published:** July 3, 2024 **Author:** studios **Content:** **July 3, 2024** – Sabreena Miller, NAIOP Pittsburgh DL, Recipient of Prologis Inclusion in CRE Scholarship **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [31st Annual Awards Banquet Winners Announced](https://www.credapgh.com/31st-annual-awards-banquet-winners-announced/) **Published:** April 1, 2024 **Author:** studios **Content:** **April 1, 2024** – [31st Annual Awards Banquet Winners Announced](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events/2024/5/9/annual-awards-banquet) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Tom Frank Named Executive Director, NAIOP Pittsburgh](https://www.credapgh.com/tom-frank-named-executive-director-naiop-pittsburgh/) **Published:** January 16, 2024 **Author:** studios **Content:** **January 16, 2024** – [Tom Frank Named Executive Director, NAIOP Pittsburgh](/s/Tom-Frank-Named-Executive-Director-NAIOP-Pittsburgh.pdf) **Original link:** [/s/Tom-Frank-Named-Executive-Director-NAIOP-Pittsburgh.pdf](/s/Tom-Frank-Named-Executive-Director-NAIOP-Pittsburgh.pdf) **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Meet Brian Walker, 2024 NAIOP Corporate Chair](https://www.credapgh.com/meet-brian-walker-2024-naiop-corporate-chair/) **Published:** January 2, 2024 **Author:** studios **Content:** **January 2, 2024** – [Meet Brian Walker, 2024 NAIOP Corporate Chair](https://vimeo.com/899227529) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [‘Bordering on illegal’: Pittsburgh’s new zoning review fees draw wrath from developers](https://www.credapgh.com/bordering-on-illegal-pittsburghs-new-zoning-review-fees-draw-wrath-from-develope/) **Published:** March 29, 2023 **Author:** studios **Content:** **March 29, 2023** – [‘Bordering on illegal’: Pittsburgh’s new zoning review fees draw wrath from developers](https://www.post-gazette.com/business/development/2023/03/29/pittsburgh-fees-zoning-review-building-permits-burns/stories/202303290065)” **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Walnut Capital argues 20-fold increase in zoning fees is illegal in letter to administration of mayor Ed Gainey](https://www.credapgh.com/walnut-capital-argues-20-fold-increase-in-zoning-fees-is-illegal-in-letter-to-ad/) **Published:** March 21, 2023 **Author:** studios **Content:** **March 21, 2023** – [Walnut Capital argues 20-fold increase in zoning fees is illegal in letter to administration of mayor Ed Gainey](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2023/03/21/walnut-capital-partners-mayor-ed-gainey-zoning.html) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Walnut Capital submits letter to Gainey administration arguing new zoning fees are illegal](https://www.credapgh.com/walnut-capital-submits-letter-to-gainey-administration-arguing-new-zoning-fees-a/) **Published:** March 21, 2023 **Author:** studios **Content:** **March 21, 2023** – [“Walnut Capital submits letter to Gainey administration arguing new zoning fees are illegal”](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2023/03/21/walnut-capital-partners-mayor-ed-gainey-zoning.html) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Gensler principal: only 30% of buildings it surveyed are suitable for residential conversion](https://www.credapgh.com/gensler-principal-only-30-of-buildings-it-surveyed-are-suitable-for-residential/) **Published:** March 16, 2023 **Author:** studios **Content:** **March 16, 2023 –** [Gensler principal: only 30% of buildings it surveyed are suitable for residential conversion](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2023/03/16/gensler-multifamily-naiop-pittsburgh.html) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Congratulations to our awardees for our 30th Annual Awards! Join us in honoring the award winners hard work and commitment to CRE in Pittsburgh on May 11, 2023](https://www.credapgh.com/congratulations-to-our-awardees-for-our-30th-annual-awards-join-us-in-honoring-t/) **Published:** March 9, 2023 **Author:** studios **Content:** **March 9, 2023** – [Congratulations to our awardees for our 30th Annual Awards! Join us in honoring the award winners hard work and commitment to CRE in Pittsburgh on May 11, 2023](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events/2023/5/11/30th-anniversary-awards-banquet) **Original link:** **Categories:** Members in the News --- ### [Season 2 Episode 8 of MIC DROP is Live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2ep8/) **Published:** May 20, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Mateo Villa with CBRE discusses the Pittsburgh Industrial real estate market.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this episode, Mateo Villa with CBRE discusses the Pittsburgh Industrial real estate market. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 2 Episode 6 of MIC DROP is Live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2ep6/) **Published:** April 14, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this episode, Kelsey Kanspedos and Tom Frank discuss the upcoming Developing Leader events slated for 2021.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this episode, Kelsey Kanspedos and Tom Frank discuss the upcoming Developing Leader events slated for 2021. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 2 Episode 5 of MIC DROP with James M. Berent](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2ep5/) **Published:** March 30, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Join NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders as we hear from James M. Berent, for Episode 5 of our second season of Mic Drop: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this episode, James M. Berent of Bernstein and Burkley discusses tax law and assessments just in time for the end of tax season **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 2 Episode 4 of MIC DROP with Brandon Mendoza & Dr. Michelle Patrick](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2ep4/) **Published:** March 17, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Join NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders as we hear from Brandon Mendoza and Dr. Michelle Patrick, for Episode 4 of our second season of Mic Drop: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** During this episode, our Executive Director, Brandon Mendoza, is joined by Dr. Michelle Patrick, Dean of the Robert Morris University School of Business, to discuss the NAIOP Pittsburgh – RMU Summer CRE Program. This program will introduce minority students to career possibilities in commercial real estate (CRE), helping to advance greater social equity while building a pipeline of talent in Pittsburgh CRE. NAIOP Pittsburgh and Robert Morris University present a unique learning experience that will immerse 25 rising high school sophomores and juniors in the world of CRE. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Mendoza’s Viewpoint: Cultivating diverse talent in Commercial Real Estate](https://www.credapgh.com/mendozaviewpointcreimmersionprogram/) **Published:** March 16, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**NAIOP Pittsburgh has launched a program to get more diversity in the ranks of the commercial real estate industry
Join NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders and Oxford’s Ben Kelley for Episode 3 of our second season of Mic Drop: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this episode, Nate Tovornik interviews Ben Kelley, Oxford Development’s Director of Planning and Development on commercial real estate topics ranging from Pittsburgh’s RIV zoning district to the importance of community and governmental relations as it pertains to permitting approvals. Explaining the relationship side of commercial real estate, Ben also shows the national importance of NAIOP as an advocate for the commercial real estate industry as a whole after events such as COVID-19, and as a path for prospective developers to meet stakeholders in markets they are not familiar. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Mentorship Connect 2021 Launches](https://www.credapgh.com/mentorshipconnect2021/) **Published:** February 25, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Each year NAIOP Pittsburgh offers its Developing Leaders (DL’s) an extraordinary opportunity to participate in a mentorship program, Mentorship Connect. It provides the DL’s the with the ability to meet and develop professional and personal friendships with some of the most influential people within Commercial Real Estate (CRE) in Pittsburgh.
**Content:** By Kelsey Kanspedos and Tom Frank Each year NAIOP Pittsburgh offers its Developing Leaders (DL’s) an extraordinary opportunity to participate in a mentorship program, *Mentorship Connect*. It provides the DL’s the with the ability to meet and develop professional and personal friendships with some of the most influential people within Commercial Real Estate (CRE) in Pittsburgh. This opportunity allows oneself to become more knowledgeable about other areas of CRE while growing personally and professionally. The support and enthusiasm from the mentors each year is encouraging and to see that they are eager to set aside time to help shape the next generation of professionals in CRE. This program would not be possible without their commitment; we would like to extend a gracious thank you to each mentor that has ever participated. This year we have taken a different approach to the mentorship program to try and deliver a more well-rounded experience for each participant. We are grouping our 16 mentors into 4 groups with the intent of providing a diversity of professional experience to each group. For example, this year the Red Team consists of Don Smith (RIDC), Chip Desmone (Desmone Architects), Alyssa Kunselman (Mascaro Construction) and Tony Rossi (CBRE). Don is the president of RIDC and has some of the most in-depth knowledge of development and commercial real-estate in the Pittsburgh Region. Chip is the CEO of Desmone Architects and he will be able to share his knowledge of designing buildings and collaborating with developers such as Don. Alyssa is the Director of Business Development for Mascaro Construction and she can expand on her experiences of how Mascaro has teamed with architects like Chip and developers like Don to build some of the most award-winning projects in our region. Tony is a Senior Vice President with CBRE and has a rich history of connecting capital providers with developers to secure funding for projects all over Pittsburgh. Our goal is for each mentee to walk away with a more educated understanding of how our industry operates as well as making long term and personal connections. We are very excited to launch the 2021 NAIOP Pittsburgh Mentorship Connect. If you would like information on how to be involved for 2022 please contact [Kelsey Kanspedos](mailto:kkanspedos@bohlereng.com?subject=Mentorship%20Connect%202022) or [Tom Frank](mailto:tfrank@desmone.com?subject=Mentorship%20Connect%202022). [Click here](https://mentoring.naiop.org/m9po5Ho9) to view our full list of mentors for the 2021 class. **Thank You to our 2021 Mentorship Connect Sponsor: Desmone** **Thank You to our 2021 Developing Leader Year Long Sponsor: RIDC** **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mentorship, Mentorship Connect --- ### [Season 2 Episode 2 of MIC DROP with Gus Faucher](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2ep2/) **Published:** February 17, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Join NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders and PNC’s Gus Faucher for Episode 2 of our second season of Mic Drop: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** Join NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders and PNC’s Gus Faucher for Episode 2 of our second season of Mic Drop: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh. Gus first dives into the economic outlook for Pittsburgh, and the climb out of the pandemic-fueled economic contraction. He then reviews what a more robust vaccine rollout will mean for spending particularly in leisure, which has definite effects on commercial real estate leasing. Finally, he will touch on interest rates and the other important post-pandemic topic to commercial real estate experts – returning to the office. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Season 2 Episode 1 of MIC DROP is Live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-season2ep1/) **Published:** February 1, 2021 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the first episode of the year, Kirk Burkley discusses changes to commercial leases and bankruptcy law as well as advice on negotiations and how Developing Leaders can rise within their firms.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh, join Clayton Morris as he interviews Kirk Burkley of the Pittsburgh law firm of Bernstein and Burkley. Initially focused on real estate collections, lease enforcement, and bankruptcy, Bernstein and Burkley have grown to be a full-service real estate law firm to the Pittsburgh region and beyond. Kirk goes into detail with the importance of mentors and making mistakes, changes in bankruptcy law, and closes with a brief discussion on Force Majeure – a hot topic in the COVID-19 era. Also thank you to Bernstein and Burkley for sponsoring Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh, allowing us to continue to interview commercial real estate experts and veterans in the Pittsburgh marketplace. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other week. This podcast is underwritten by our 2021 Podcast Sponsor, ***Bernstein and Burkley***. Thank you to our DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2021 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 17 of MIC DROP is live](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-17/) **Published:** December 18, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the final episode of 2020, Clayton Morris interviews Don Smith, President of RIDC. The conversation varies from Mr. Smith's career path to RIDC's history and future.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the final episode of 2020, Clayton Morris interviews Don Smith, President of RIDC. The conversation varies from Mr. Smith’s career path to RIDC’s history and future. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 16 of MIC DROP is live](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-16/) **Published:** November 24, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the sixteenth episode, Clayton Morris, Kelsey Kanspedos, and Tom Frank Discuss NAIOP Developing Leaders leadership and Plans for 2021
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the sixteenth episode, Clayton Morris, Kelsey Kanspedos, and Tom Frank Discuss NAIOP Developing Leaders leadership and Plans for 2021 To inquire about sponsoring, volunteering or joining the NAIOP DL’s please email Kelsey at: [kkanspedos@bohlereng.com](mailto:kkanspedos@bohlereng.com?subject=Re%3A%20Podcast%20DL%20Inquiry) **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 15 of MIC DROP is live](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-15/) **Published:** November 6, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the fifteenth episode, Tyler Noland discusses how PenTrust increases the value of pensions while investing in job generating projects.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the fifteenth episode, Tyler Noland discusses how PenTrust increases the value of pensions while investing in job generating projects. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 14 of MIC DROP is live](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-14/) **Published:** October 12, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the fourteenth Episode of MIC DROP, Jackie Bezek covers 10 lessons she learned in her time as a commercial real estate broker.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the fourteenth Episode of MIC DROP, Jackie Bezek covers 10 lessons she learned in her time as a commercial real estate broker. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Special SIOR Episode of MIC DROP is live](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-sior/) **Published:** October 12, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this special episode of MIC DROP, Clayton Morris interviews some of Pittsburgh's most prolific SIOR brokersMIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this special episode, Clayton Morris interviews some of Pittsburgh’s most prolific SIOR brokers: Pat Sentner, Rick O’Brien, John Bilyak, and Jack O’Donoghue. the Interviews focus on their early careers and advice to up and coming Developing Leaders. Special SIOR rerelease. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 13 of MIC DROP is live, featuring Emily Sipes](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-13/) **Published:** October 12, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the thirteenth episode of MIC DROP, Emily Sipes discusses the long and influential history of RIDC
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the thirteenth episode of MIC DROP: Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, Emily Sipes discusses the long and influential history of RIDC. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Mendoza’s Viewpoint: ‘At the end of the day, leadership matters’](https://www.credapgh.com/2021-2-23-mendozas-viewpoint-at-the-end-of-the-day-leadership-matters/) **Published:** September 26, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Over the past six months, our region, nation and world have faced unparalleled challenges. Covid-19 has upended the global economy, while laying bare many of our vulnerabilities.
**Content:** Over the past six months, our region, nation and world have faced unparalleled challenges. Covid-19 has upended the global economy, while laying bare many of our vulnerabilities… [read full article](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2020/09/25/mendozas-viewpoint-leadership-matters.html?iana=hpmvp_pit_news_headline) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Episode 12 of MIC DROP is live, featuring Jim Ambrose interviewing Audrey Russo](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-12/) **Published:** September 11, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In the twelfth episode of MIC DROP, Jim Ambrose Interviews
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the twelfth episode of MIC DROP: Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, Jim Ambrose Interviews Audrey Russo and discusses the work of the Pittsburgh technology Council. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 11 of MIC DROP is live, featuring four top brokers in #CREpgh](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-11/) **Published:** August 28, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 11 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features some of Pittsburgh's most prolific SIOR brokers.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the eleventh episode of MIC DROP: Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, Clayton Morris interviews some of Pittsburgh’s most prolific SIOR brokers: Pat Sentner (CBRE), Rick O’Brien (JLL), John Bilyak (Colliers International), and Jack O’Donoghue (Cushman & Wakefield | Grant Street Associates). The Interviews focus on their early careers and advice to up and coming Developing Leaders. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 10 of MIC DROP is live, Nate Tovornik & Guests](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-10/) **Published:** August 17, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 10 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features …
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the tenth episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, Nate Tovornik from Oxford sits down with his colleagues Mike Barnard, VP of Development, and Megan Stearman, Director of Marketing and Innovation, to discuss the business case for sustainability and it’s effect on company culture. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 9 of MIC DROP is live, Shannon McGuire & Erica Wilkerson](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-9/) **Published:** July 31, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 9 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features guests Shanon McGuire and Erica Wilkerson discuss how they are effectively teaming up to lease furnished Spec office spaces.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the ninth episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guests Shanon McGuire and Erica Wilkerson discuss how they are effectively teaming up to lease furnished Spec office spaces. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 8 of MIC DROP is live, featuring Tom Frank](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-8/) **Published:** July 31, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 8 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features guest Tom Frank discusses his ideas on COVID friendly building design.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the eighth episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guest Tom Frank discusses his ideas on COVID-friendly building design. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 7 of MIC DROP is live, featuring Chris Perez](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-7/) **Published:** July 6, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 7 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features guest Chris Perez discusses his ideas on how to create a corporate culture and increase productivity.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In the seventh episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guest Chris Perez discusses his ideas on how to create a corporate culture and increase productivity. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Special Episode of MIC DROP with David Caliguiri](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-specials/) **Published:** June 17, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**In this special episode, guest David Caliguiri and host Clayton Morris discuss the best methods to get involved with local politics and how a Developing Leader can get their voice heard.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** In this special episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guest David Caliguiri and host Clayton Morris discuss the best methods to get involved with local politics and how a Developing Leader can get their voice heard. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 6 of MIC DROP is live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-6/) **Published:** June 17, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 6 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features guest Amanda Buczynski discusses the construction industry and interior prefabrication technology.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** Episode 6 of MIC DROP is live! In the sixth episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guest Amanda Buczynski discusses the construction industry and interior prefabrication technology. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 5 of MIC DROP is live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-4-of-mic-drop-is-live-jh4yh/) **Published:** May 21, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 5 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features guest Ashley Koltonski sharing thoughts on CRE marketing and give marketing tips.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** Episode 5 of MIC DROP is live! In the fifth episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guest Ashley Koltonski shares thoughts on CRE marketing and give marketing tips. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Ashley-Koltonski-Ep5--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-eea1bh)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Episode 4 of MIC DROP is live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-4-of-mic-drop-is-live/) **Published:** May 21, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 4 of MIC DROP is live! This episode features guest Tony Rossi gives an overview of real estate Financing.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** Episode 4 of MIC DROP is live! In the fourth episode of the Commercial Real Estate Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders podcast, guest Tony Rossi gives an overview of real estate Financing. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the[ podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl/episodes/Tony-Rossi-Ep4--Commercial-Real-Estate-Views-with-NAIOP-Pittsburghs-Developing-Leaders-edog79)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Glimmers of Optimism in Pandemic Times](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-5-26-glimmers-of-optimism-in-pandemic-times/) **Published:** May 21, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Paige Myers
As speculation continues on what the Post-COVID world will look like, most companies are likely reassessing their real estate situations. When can employees return to the office? Will employees feel safe to do so when that time comes? What would the implications of moving to a completely remote workforce indefinitely be? Will our innate social nature take over after months of isolation? Will the countless days of ‘WFH’ shine a spotlight on the value of having an office atmosphere sans spouses/children/other distractions with coworkers to motivate, challenge and inspire our daily work?
**Content:** Paige Myers As speculation continues on what the Post-COVID world will look like, most companies are likely reassessing their real estate situations. When can employees return to the office? Will employees feel safe to do so when that time comes? What would the implications of moving to a completely remote workforce indefinitely be? Will our innate social nature take over after months of isolation? Will the countless days of ‘WFH’ shine a spotlight on the value of having an office atmosphere sans spouses/children/other distractions with coworkers to motivate, challenge and inspire our daily work? Many of you reading this are probably kept up at night courtesy of the anxiety these questions induce – and so are we. However, our team truly thrives on collaboration. And while Zoom meetings have helped us continue to function amidst the shutdown….we are eager to get back to morning pleasantries, team lunches, Kevin Riley Whiteboard Brainstorming sessions and Celebratory Office Bourbons ASASP \[(as soon as safely possible.) Should I claim this? You heard it here first. #ASASP\]. Despite the many unknowns of the future making it difficult to commit to a multi-year lease – our optimism never wavered and we couldn’t be more excited to announce plans to move into our new home at 3 Gateway Center later this summer. Hats off, again, to the team at Hertz Investment Group and to Tim McCarthy and Jeremy Kronman from CBRE whose commitment to creating win/win circumstances in fragile economic times truly sealed the deal!  In addition to being thrilled to have a brand new space to reconnect in, we’re also happy that we could double-down on our commitment to Pittsburgh’s Central Business District. The Downtown market has been lackluster for a while now, but we want nothing more than to see that turn around. Perhaps “be the change you want to see in the world” is an overly dramatic quote for this instance…but, shoutout to Ghandi for his wise words. While we don’t know what is to come of the weeks and months ahead, we believe in the resiliency of Pittsburgh, our clients and our peers in the commercial real estate community. We look forward to seeing more examples of the creativity and grit that surround us as we make our way through this trying time and we, as a team and individually, are here to help however we can to get things back on track. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh --- ### [How the Coronavirus Will Change Buildings](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-5-12-how-the-coronavirus-will-change-buildings/) **Published:** May 12, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**A friend of mine is CEO of a property management company. He and I planned for months to build a new multifamily apartment building. We discussed design, location, features, everything – he wanted the works. But when it came to health and wellness, he shared the same mindset as many leaders: he saw them as perks, worthwhile only as far as they helped him market the building.
**Content:** **How the Coronavirus Will Change Buildings** Eric A. Booth, AIA, President, Desmone Architects A friend of mine is CEO of a property management company. He and I planned for months to build a new multifamily apartment building. We discussed design, location, features, everything – he wanted the works. But when it came to health and wellness, he shared the same mindset as many leaders: he saw them as perks, worthwhile only as far as they helped him market the building. That feels like a lifetime ago. In some ways, the world of building design changed more in the past month than in the past decade. New practices will impact anyone who wants to ensure their organization is alive and healthy in twelve months. Every single customer, employee, tenant, student, parent – everyone – now thinks about the way spaces impact our work and life. Last week my friend called and asked, how can we take what we know now about coronavirus and make our apartment building safer? He’s not alone in wondering. In recent weeks many of our clients have asked how to incorporate public health into their designs. **There is a plan** The coronavirus is new, but the science of communicable disease is not. The same scientists who predicted the threat of pandemics also developed strategies to keep us safer from them. Experts have identified clear ways that smart building design reduces the spread of pathogens. I know, because our firm incorporated those strategies into our recent office expansion. Desmone is an architecture and interior design firm, and we wanted a headquarters we would be proud of. We believed our office at Doughboy Square should reflect the very best of our capabilities and the best practices of our industry. In 2017, we decided to adopt the standard set by the [International WELL Building Institute™](https://www.wellcertified.com/certification/v1/standard/) because it is the world’s premiere authority on the subject. We incorporated a scientific understanding of health and wellness from this comprehensive standard, guiding our decisions on everything from lighting, to air flow, to sound, and much more. We were proud to become [the first building in Pittsburgh to earn WELL Certified™ Gold](http://desmone.com/iconic-doughboy-square-building-earns-international-distinction/).  Based on the experts and on our experience, here’s what will change about building design in the post-coronavirus world: **The new normal** **People will be very conscious of space.** Close your eyes and visualize the morning you walk back into your office for the first time. You open the door, pass the reception desk, press a button on the elevator, and take a deep breath. Now picture an apartment building. You get a notification that your groceries have been delivered. Are they sitting outside the front door? Or are they crowded into the mail room, sharing space with deliveries and packages for all of your neighbors who, like you, are now shopping from home? Things that wouldn’t have warranted a second thought before, now feel risky. **We’ll design spaces to make us healthier.** One of the first questions for any planner is, how much space do you really need? It goes without saying that every office will need to consider teleworking. Physical space and physical barriers between employees will also increase. At entryways, you’ll see fewer handles and more automatic doors. Residential buildings will expand mail areas to receive – and separate – deliveries. **We’ll use smarter materials.** Every single high-touch surface in our office, including handles, bathroom fixtures and tabletops, is made from nonporous material that can be cleaned with a single swipe. No more design elements that create nooks for germs. We designed our sinks to make hand-washing easier and more sanitary and moved from bulk-refill soap dispensers to ones with individual packets. **Cleaning protocol will take center stage.** Our WELL Certification is not permanent; we need to apply to renew it every three years. Part of the renewal is a review of our building’s cleaning process. We’re responsible down to the minute details including method, frequency, and products used. All must comply with CDC guidelines. Especially high-touch surfaces – like door handles and elevator buttons – receive extra sanitization with an ultraviolet light wand. ·**Mechanical systems are out of sight, but not out of mind.** The coronavirus sparked a national conversation about air. Specifically, how it is filtered and recycled through small spaces like cruise ships and airplanes – and buildings. New projects will have higher-quality air filtration systems, with strict monitoring of air particulates. The same goes for water filtration. Heating and cooling systems will be easy to access and easy to clean, to prevent microbes and bacteria like Legionnaires’ disease. **Emotional wellness is a priority.** Right now, most of our focus is on physical safety. But it will be clear once we return to work that things will be different. Many of us will feel longing for the way things were. The new normal may feel lonely, impersonal, or too sterile. We must consider the whole person – mind, body and spirit. Forward-thinking design can bring us closer to the things that give us comfort and connect us back to nature, such as an abundance of natural light, meaningful objects or artwork, rich plant life, and more. Company polices that address the whole person can complement physical spaces to create an environment of wellness. **How do you want to live and work?** This question guides every project. It is the bridge that connects your vision for a space with an architect’s expertise and creativity to design it. It lets us understand how clients want and need to use a building. It empowers you to see assumptions you don’t know you’ve made and possibilities you haven’t considered. It’s clear that building design will adapt to better prioritize public health. The concept of wellness is no longer a mere consideration; it should be baked into every plan from the outset. But while the practice of architecture will change, our philosophy will not: we create spaces that allow people to thrive. Eric A. Booth, AIA President, Desmone Architects *The Desmone Architects headquarters at Doughboy Square recently earned* [*WELL Gold Certification*](http://desmone.com/iconic-doughboy-square-building-earns-international-distinction/)*, becoming the first building in Pittsburgh to earn the distinction.* **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh --- ### [RECOVERY READINESS: THE SAFE SIX CHECKLIST](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-30-recovery-readiness-the-safe-six-checklist/) **Published:** April 30, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Over the next several weeks and months, as areas stabilize from the COVID-19 pandemic and stay-at home restrictions are lifted, organizations will begin to bring workers back into the physical workplace. The mix of returning employees will vary, and in some cases, a segment of the workforce may continue to work remotely. One thing is clear, however—the management of the process is without precedent.
**Content:** By: Cushman & Wakefield | Grant Street Associates Over the next several weeks and months, as areas stabilize from the COVID-19 pandemic and stay-at home restrictions are lifted, organizations will begin to bring workers back into the physical workplace. The mix of returning employees will vary, and in some cases, a segment of the workforce may continue to work remotely. One thing is clear, however—the management of the process is without precedent. Many of our clients have sought our guidance and expertise as they navigate this process. The migration from furloughed and WFH workforce back to places of business will look different for every organization. How can real estate owners most effectively prepare their assets for the return of building occupants? How can employers make sure they are prepared to receive their workforce—and make sure their employees are prepared? In this next phase of recovery, a handful of primary focus areas will be applicable to nearly every real estate owner and occupier across the globe. From big organizations to small ones, from those with one location to those with hundreds—each in their own way will be focused on the following Workplace Readiness Essentials: 1\) **Prepare the building**: cleaning plans, pre-return inspections, HVAC & mechanical checks 2\) **Prepare the workforce**: mitigating anxiety, policies for deciding who returns, employee communications 3\) **Control access**: protocols for safety and health checks, building reception, shipping/receiving, elevators, visitor policies 4\) **Create a social distancing plan**: decreasing density, schedule management, office traffic patterns 5\) **Reduce touch points and increase cleaning**: touchless ingress/egress, food plan, cleaning common areas 6\) **Communicate for confidence**: recognize the fear in returning, communicate transparency, listen/survey regularly Most importantly – consistently reinforce hand washing, social distancing, and staying home when ill. **Three Final Things to Note** First, the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as the respective health organizations and government bodies within each country, are the primary sources for guidance on COVID-19 and other health-related issues. Second, while the practices and recommendations in this guide at times reference office environments, they are largely applicable to other types of workforce environments and properties. Finally, the intention of this resource is to establish the foundation of ideas and recommendations upon which we can build—in collaboration with clients and partners—an increasingly useful guide. We’re certain the coming weeks and months will teach us new things, and we look forward to sharing more ideas and updates to help you move forward through unfamiliar territory. In the meantime, we look forward to connecting with you to learn more about how we can help. If you have additional questions about Recovery Readiness please contact us directly or visit our dedicated online resource found [here.](https://www.cushmanwakefield.com/en/insights/covid-19) Sam McGill , Senior Vice President, Cushman & Wakefield | Grant Street Associates **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [COVID-19: MOVING ENTITLEMENTS FORWARD](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-28-covid-19-moving-entitlements-forward/) **Published:** April 28, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**While the land development permitting process may look different now, it is possible to entitle properties in the wake of COVID-19. Applicants might even see unexpected benefits and opportunities in pursuing approvals, now. Though the process varies between states and jurisdictions, here is what Bohler’s Teams are seeing across the country and the ways we are collaborating with jurisdictions and clients to move projects forward.
**Content:** By Bohler ### **With Creativity, the Entitlement Process during COVID–19 Brings Unexpected Opportunities.** ### While the land development permitting process may look different now, it is possible to entitle properties in the wake of COVID-19. Applicants might even see unexpected benefits and opportunities in pursuing approvals, now. Though the process varies between states and jurisdictions, here is what Bohler’s Teams are seeing across the country and the ways we are collaborating with jurisdictions and clients to move projects forward. ### **Jurisdictional and Agency Submissions** **What We’re Seeing:** Most jurisdictions and agencies are still processing land development applications. Some continue to accept hard-copy submissions via drop-off bins. Other jurisdictions are accepting electronic submissions. Many municipal staff members are working remotely or in staggered shifts. Even with a smaller percentage of staff present in the municipal offices, jurisdictions are eager to keep applications moving. Doing so reduces the anticipated backlog of submissions once “business as usual” resumes. It also allows the jurisdictions to continue collecting much-needed permit fees. **A Different Approach:** Applicants aren’t the only ones adjusting to a new submission process–jurisdictions are, too. At Bohler, we are helping jurisdictions adapt to these changes. In promoting the efficiencies of electronic submissions, our Teams are encouraging their adoption. We are also collaborating with jurisdictional staff regarding the technology to put the above approach into practice. For hard copy applications, our Teams are working with staff on the logistics of how and when applications are received. Even small details are being reworked, like postmarking and time-stamping packages. We are collaborating with municipal engineers and agency reviewers, many of whom are working from home, to promote reviews. **Unexpected Opportunities for Applicants:** In general, the entire review process has relaxed a bit in some jurisdictions. With site inspections on hold and fewer distractions created by reviewers working remotely, reviewers’ workloads have changed. It has freed them up to answer questions and respond faster, allowing applications to be processed more quickly. ### **Public Hearings** **What We’re Seeing:** Most hearings are being held by phone or via video-conferencing technology. Often, the applicant is not able to provide input or expert testimony. As a way to include the public in these virtual meetings, some boards are using a two-meeting process. In the first meeting, the board reads and discusses the application. Then the public has a set number of days before the next meeting to submit or ask questions. The second meeting then addresses the public’s input. States are already taking action to formalize the virtual hearing process. The Pennsylvania State House is in the process of passing a bill allowing municipalities to conduct public hearings through telecommunications while Pennsylvania is subject to a declaration of emergency. The bill outlines the steps needed to include public input. In early March, Governor Cuomo took a similar step in waiving some provisions of New York’s Open Meetings Law. Other states will likely follow their lead. **A Different Approach:** It takes more than a solid presentation to succeed in a virtual hearing, especially when you can’t give one. Reviewing boards need as much information as possible, sent in an organized fashion, to render a decision with limited (or no) input from the applicant and design experts. Our Teams are taking extra steps to set up the presentation in advance. Bohler is sending board members detailed lists of all exhibits and presentation materials in the order they will be reviewed. We are participating in pre-coordination calls to outline who will speak and when, while others stay muted. To address public response, Bohler’s Teams have amped up virtual pre-coordination efforts with local civic groups. Often, our Teams work to obtain a letter of support from these groups to submit with the application. Our Teams are also encouraging jurisdictions to embrace technology and adopt virtual hearings. Sharing what has and hasn’t worked in other areas helps jurisdictions establish and refine their own processes. **Unexpected Opportunities for Applicants:** As with submissions, Bohler is finding that jurisdictions and agencies want to keep applications moving forward. Many are reluctant to adjourn hearings if applications are comprehensive and well-coordinated. **Moving Entitlements Forward to Come Out Ahead** In a volatile market, developers need confidence that they can secure project approvals. Though the process is different under our Country’s current landscape, it is possible to move entitlements forward–and perhaps even secure approvals more quickly than usual. It may be an opportune time to keep projects moving, especially those requiring a complex and lengthy permitting strategies. Doing so could position you and your project to emerge from this difficult and challenging situation ahead of the game, entitlements in hand. If you have questions about your jurisdiction’s current entitlement process, [contact our specialists](https://bohlerengineering.com/contact/). We have 700+ Bohler employees working remotely throughout the Country. Our Teams are continuously communicating with officials, reviewers, and inspectors to understand their current operations and help our clients maintain momentum. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Life in Balance: ‘Now work and family times are blended’ for Brandon Mendoza](https://www.credapgh.com/2021-2-23-life-in-balance-now-work-and-family-times-are-blended-for-brandon-mendoza/) **Published:** April 28, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Brandon Mendoza, executive director of NAIOP Pittsburgh, is accustomed to working from home, having split his time from home, meetings in downtown Pittsburgh and the organization’s office in the South Hills. With the pandemic and full-time working-from-home in place, he’s balancing his responsibilities as dad and executive together, often at the same time.… read full article
**Content:** Brandon Mendoza, executive director of NAIOP Pittsburgh, is accustomed to working from home, having split his time from home, meetings in downtown Pittsburgh and the organization’s office in the South Hills. With the pandemic and full-time working-from-home in place, he’s balancing his responsibilities as dad and executive together, often at the same time*.*… [read full article](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2020/04/27/life-in-balance-now-work-and-family-times-are.html?iana=cp_news_link) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Episode 3 of MIC DROP is live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-24-episode-3-of-mic-drop-is-live/) **Published:** April 24, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**
Episode 3 of MIC DROP is live! Ep. 3 features James Scalo discussing Covid-19's effect on the evolution of the office.
MIC DROP is sponsored by…
**Content:** Episode 3 of MIC DROP is live! Ep. 3 features James Scalo discussing Covid-19’s effect on the evolution of the office. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the [podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, dlpgh, Mic Drop, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Enjoy the recording of the April 9th Chapter Meeting](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-10-enjoy-the-recording-of-the-april-9th-chapter-meeting/) **Published:** April 10, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Did you miss the April 9th Chapter Meeting?
You can view the webinar by clicking here.
We examined COVID-19’s Impact on the Economy & Workforce, featuring a panel of various experts in their field.
**Content:** Did you miss the April 9th Chapter Meeting? You can view the webinar by [clicking here](https://zoom.us/rec/share/_OpwE43Q93tIbqvC41DYYoM9Qr7haaa82iBMrKFfxBl5gbI_1osXw23keBo0iegk). We examined COVID-19’s Impact on the Economy & Workforce, featuring a panel of various experts in their field. Our panelist included the following: ***Mekael Teshome*** *Vice President and Senior Regional Officer* *The Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland* ***Earl Buford*** *Chief Executive Officer* *Partner4Work* ***Heather Saxon*** *Human Resources Manager* *Rycon Construction, Inc.* ***Michael Klein*** *Partner* *Blumling & Gusky, LLP* ***Tony Rossi*** *First Vice President, Debt and Structured Finance* *CBRE* **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Episode 2 of MIC DROP is live!](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-10-episode-2-of-mic-drop-is-live/) **Published:** April 10, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Episode 2 of MIC DROP is live! Ep. 2 features Kelsey Kanspedos in a conversation on due diligence, land development, the effects of COVID-19 on the land development and real estate industry.
**Content:** Episode 2 of MIC DROP is live! Ep. 2 features Kelsey Kanspedos in a conversation on due diligence, land development, the effects of COVID-19 on the land development and real estate industry. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will release a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the [podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl)! This podcast will be available on Spotify and other platforms.  **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, pittsburgh, PittsburghPodcast, podcast --- ### [Opportunity Zone Investment What you really need to know to maximize your return and mitigate taxes](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-4-1-opportunity-zone-investment-what-you-really-need-to-know-to-maximize-your-return-and-mitigate-taxes/) **Published:** April 1, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Benjamin Franklin said there are only two things certain in life: death and taxes.
Thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, you can defer and reduce half of this certainty- taxes. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was the most sweeping tax reform act in 30 years and the single biggest gift to the investment community since 1031 exchanges.
**Content:** By John R. Deklewa, Collier Capital, LLC March 25, 2020 *Benjamin Franklin said there are only two things certain in life: death and taxes.* Thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, you can defer and reduce half of this certainty- taxes. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was the most sweeping tax reform act in 30 years and the single biggest gift to the investment community since 1031 exchanges (https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0110/10-things-to-know-about-1031-exchanges.aspx). In fact, it is better than 1031s. The act created economic development Opportunity Zones. Here is what you need to know: Opportunity Zones are federally designated areas designed to spur economic development and job creation in distressed communities throughout the country (https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/opportunity-zones-frequently-asked-questions). You can invest in an OZ via direct investment or Qualified Opportunity Fund (https://www.investopedia.com/opportunity-fund-4688682). As with anything in life, invest with a reputable, professional real estate developer. Do not invest in a duplex fixer-upper with your local bartender. Do invest with a local developer who you can call, or better yet your CPA can call their CPA. Why? Because the IRS guidelines were written with ambiguity and have not been fully tested yet over time. Think of the OZ guidelines as a college drinking game…everyone involved enjoys themselves immensely but the rules are a bit unclear and ultimately decided upon by the group playing the game. Location still matters, but the product type and/or potential tenant(s) matter more. Designated OZs are typically near urban or industrial areas that have seen better days. However, these areas often have high concentrations of people, medium to low pay scale requirements, abundance of utilities (power, water and natural gas) and decent road infrastructure. The locations are (typically C- to B+). The lack of A+ locations can be overcome by the use, user or tenant(s). A build-to-suit, lease back real estate development in an OZ is the ideal situation. A build-to-suit tenant with credit is the golden ticket! Some important aspects for investors to understand are: direct investment is simple and straight-forward. You have 180 days to invest in a QOZ Fund (think LP) from the date of the sale generating the capital gain (ask your CPA if this can be the last day of your tax year). The QOZF has xx days to begin investing in an opportunity. You have more time than a 1031 offers, you do NOT have to use an intermediary, and your investment or product type is wide open. Do not over-leverage. Invest as much capital gains ‘cash’ as possible to maximize your cap gains deferral. Once the project is stabilized, you can refi or leverage up as much as your lender will allow- “cash-out”. The “white-whale” of OZ investing is a build-to-suit lease back. Example: you/entity invest $1 million of capital gains into a QOZF and the fund purchases a building, renovates the building and fully leases the building to a tenant. Your entity then puts permanent non-recourse debt at 65% on the property, returning 65% of the invested capital to the investors. So instead of paying Uncle Sam 35% of your hard fought earnings, you now have it invested in an income-producing real estate deal. In 10 years, you get a 10% basis reduction of your earlier capital gains earnings so you will owe the federal government around $250,000. Or another way to look at it is the government just gave you a $250,000 interest free loan for ten years. And the best part is when you go to sell the property in 10 years, you pay zero federal taxes on the capital gain from the sale. It’s like being on an Oprah TV show- you get a tax break and you get a tax break…It is really that good. IF you remember the keys to success: 1\. A reputable (local) developer/sponsor 2\. An end-user or tenant(s) 3\. Watch the calendar (don’t screw up the timing) 4\. Whatever budget amount you think you need for counsel (legal and accounting), double it, and double it again (remember the drinking game analogy…) There are thousands of articles, FAQs and technical papers published on the internet. Do your homework, consult your CPA and invest locally with a professional, reputable developer. *John R. Deklewa, CEO of RDC Design+Build and Manager of Collier Capital, LLC is a veteran real estate developer and investor. His company won the 2019 NAIOP Speculative Office Building and Industrial Build-to-Suit Projects of the year. Mr. Deklewa’s company developed the first Opportunity Zone project in Pittsburgh in 2019.* **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh's Developing Leaders](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-3-26-mic-drop-cre-views-with-naiop-pittsburghs-developing-leaders/) **Published:** March 26, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Given the current situation with limited person-to-person interaction, we want to ensure continued services. We will be rolling out webinars and digital chapter meetings, more to come on that front, but we are excited to share our first digital program, a podcast led by our Developing Leaders.
MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders will launch tomorrow, March 26, 2020 and a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor RIDC, our Hard Hat Sponsor FalkBuilt, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor Desmone Architects.
**Content:** Podcast Launch Announcement: Given the current situation with limited person-to-person interaction, we want to ensure continued services. We will be rolling out webinars and digital chapter meetings, more to come on that front, but we are excited to share our first digital program, a podcast led by our Developing Leaders. **MIC DROP: CRE Views with NAIOP Pittsburgh Developing Leaders** will launch tomorrow, March 26, 2020 and a new podcast will be released every other Friday. This podcast is underwritten by our 2020 DL Annual Sponsor ***RIDC***, our Hard Hat Sponsor ***FalkBuilt***, and our 2020 Mentorship Sponsor ***Desmone Architects***. Check out the [podcast now](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl)! This podcast will be available on itunes and Spotify. [](https://anchor.fm/naiop-pittsburgh-dl) **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CRE, CREpgh, dlpgh, pittsburgh, podcast, Young Professionals --- ### [Mendoza’s Viewpoint: Transit important for region’s growth](https://www.credapgh.com/2021-2-23-mendozas-viewpoint-transit-important-for-regions-growth/) **Published:** March 5, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**While many recent transit headlines have focused on the ever-important debates regarding alternative modes of transportation, usually bikes or scooters versus other modes, our state and region have a crisis bubbling up with traditional modes of transit.
**Content:** While many recent transit headlines have focused on the ever-important debates regarding alternative modes of transportation, usually bikes or scooters versus other modes, our state and region have a crisis bubbling up with traditional modes of transit. …[ read full article here.](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2020/03/04/mendozas-viewpoint-transit-important-for-regions.html) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Seven companies and one individual will be honored by the NAIOP for their work and contributions to the region in 2019](https://www.credapgh.com/2020-2-11-seven-companies-and-one-individual-will-be-honored-by-the-naiop-for-their-work-and-contributions-to-the-region-in-2019/) **Published:** February 12, 2020 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**JLL's Jason Stewart & Bohler's Kelsey Kanspedos highlight our award winners for the 27th Annual Awards Banquet! Both Kelsey and Jason are co-chairing the awards banquet this year.
Pittsburgh is experiencing a renaissance and resurgence, the likes of which has not be seen since the early days of steel. This renaissance and resurgence has been driven by booming industries such as technology, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. But the growth in these industries and the region’s overall economy delineate from one source – commercial real estate.
**Content:** JLL’s Jason Stewart & Bohler’s Kelsey Kanspedos highlight our award winners for the 27th Annual Awards Banquet! Both Kelsey and Jason are co-chairing the awards banquet this year. Pittsburgh is experiencing a renaissance and resurgence, the likes of which has not be seen since the early days of steel. This renaissance and resurgence has been driven by booming industries such as technology, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. But the growth in these industries and the region’s overall economy delineate from one source – commercial real estate. Uber, Google, Amazon, Shell, UPMC, etc. would not be able to sustain the growth that they’ve experienced without the excellence and expertise of the commercial real estate community in Pittsburgh. NAIOP Pittsburgh is the regional association of developers, owners, investors and professionals of commercial real estate. It is a leading industry resource to foster business relationships, promote responsible development and support growth of the region through education, leadership and advocacy. Every year, NAIOP Pittsburgh pulls together over 900 commercial real estate professionals at the NAIOP Pittsburgh Annual Awards Banquet to celebrate those within the industry that have exemplified excellence and helped fuel Pittsburgh’s growth. This year will mark the 27th year of the awards program. Seven companies and one individual will be honored for their work and contributions to the region in 2019. Here’s a look at this year’s winners. **1. Developer of the Year – McCaffery** The McCaffery team has had an active presence in Pittsburgh for more than 15 years. Their presence began prior to the 2006 opening of the adaptive reuse Armstrong Cork Factory and then on to the development of Lot 24 in 2012. These developments were then followed by their development consulting, management, and leasing in partnership with Oxford Development on The Yards at 3 Crossings in 2016, and most recently Coda on Centre which opened in 2018. In total, McCaffery has developed, leased or managed 868 apartments in the city of Pittsburgh, in turn showing their dedication to the community by developing places which bring people together In 2019, McCaffery broke ground on their largest project in the city, the redevelopment of the historic Produce Terminal into the Strip District Terminal and the building at 1600 Smallman. What was once a mostly-vacant building stretching five blocks, will soon be 160,000 square feet of new shops and restaurants, as well as interconnected walkways that will promote pedestrian circulation to provide access from Smallman Street directly to the riverfront. Across the street from the project, located at 1600 Smallman, the developer is transforming the former Standard Underground Cable Company site into new retail, tech office, and parking garage. McCaffery has worked with the URA, city of Pittsburgh, and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to bring this building back to life, creating a new hub of activity for the Strip District. Substantial completion for this project is projected for Q3 2020. **2. Green Building – Mill 19 by RIDC** With the adaptive reuse of the quarter mile long Mill 19 at the former Jones and Laughlin site in Hazelwood, RIDC set out to make a world-class commercial and light industrial building. In contrast to the pollution produced by the original facility when it was a roll mill, Mill 19’s Phase A, as well its two subsequent phases, have been designed to be eco-friendly, environmentally sustainable and LEED v4 Gold certified. **3. Build to Suit – Office – SAP Ariba Pittsburgh Headquarters** This new corporate office project by Continental Real Estate Companies is a 180,000-square-foot, seven-story office building. Consistent with the other buildings on the North Shore, the ground level will feature restaurants to further enhance the North Shore as a destination. SAP, a German multinational software corporation, is the anchor tenant. **4. Build to Suit – Industrial – Fifth Season Vertical Farm by RDC** This 60,000-square foot, solar-powered farm has a 25,000-square-foot grow room with twice the capacity of traditional farms. Matched with the tenant’s smart design and tech, this new setting will allow them to produce and market over 500,000 pounds of produce in their first year of operation. This project was also the region’s first Opportunity Zone investment and is one of the largest investments in Braddock in decades. This development has the potential to open the door for further industrial investment in Braddock. **5. Speculative – Industrial – West Pittsburgh Business Park by Sampson Morris Group** In addition to renovations to existing buildings in 2019, three new flex buildings were added ranging in sizes from 19,000 to 66,000 square feet. With a parking ratio of four per 1,000, these new buildings are designed to accommodate industrial users, office users, and traditional flex users. The first building to become fully leased was the largest new building in the park, this included three tenants that had all signed prior to the building shell being complete. This park is geographically located west of the city to offer easy access to I-367 and I-79. **6. Speculative – Office – District 15 by RDC Design & Orangestar Properties** District 15 is a LEED Certified, four-story office building that features 18-foot-high ceilings throughout the first floor “Built for the future tenants of Pittsburgh.” The building also offers many amenity spaces including a public piazza, a fitness facility with changing areas, electric car charging stations, and 150 parking spaces. District 15 will be the new home for Facebook’s regional headquarters. **7. Best New Business Park – Chapman Westport Business Park by Chapman Properties** Chapman Westport Business Park is the site of a new 1 million-square-foot fulfillment center for Amazon and GE’s Center for Additive Technology Advancement. This park is ideally located in Findlay Township at the Westport Interchange of PA Turnpike 576. Also, it is only three miles from I-376, the Pittsburgh International Airport, and two miles from Route 22/30. Other new developments in this 325-acre business park are two, 74,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, industrial-flex buildings known as Building 100 & Building 200. Chapman Westport also offers additional entitled land for development that is owned and managed by Chapman Properties. **8. Supporter of Development – Jeff Kotula, president, Washington County Chamber of Commerce** For the past 20 years, Jeff Kotula has served as the president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, representing and advocating for the business interests of more than 1,100 members. In his capacity as chamber president, Kotula also serves as the chief economic development official for Washington County. The Washington County Economic Development Partnership was created through an innovative public/private partnership and is responsible for delivering a wide range of economic development services for the county. He was instrumental in the creation of this streamlined economic development delivery model for Washington County. In many cases has been the catalyst to bring like-minded business, government, and community leaders together to work toward the goal of promoting and advancing Washington County. *The 27th Annual Awards Banquet will be held on March 5, 2020 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. If you are not registered, we encourage you to sign up to attend at* [*www.naioppittsburgh.com/events.*](http://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events) *Read More at Pittsburgh* [*CRE Viewpoints*](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/partners/pittsburgh-cre-view-points) **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** Awards, CREpgh, development, PittsburghAwards, PittsburghEvents --- ### [Fall 2019 Executive Director Message](https://www.credapgh.com/2019-10-7-fall-2019-executive-director-message/) **Published:** October 7, 2019 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Last month marked my one year as Executive Director of NAIOP Pittsburgh. And for our chapter, this past year has been one characterized by growth, innovation, and incremental change. Building from the many years of excellence, 2018-19 has been one of NAIOP Pittsburgh’s best years. Our membership grew by over 15 percent, our events consistently sold to capacity, including record attendance at the 26th Annual Awards Banquet, and our Developing Leaders (DL) program skyrocketed this year with strong programming.
**Content:** Last month marked my one year as Executive Director of NAIOP Pittsburgh. And for our chapter, this past year has been one characterized by growth, innovation, and incremental change. Building from the many years of excellence, 2018-19 has been one of NAIOP Pittsburgh’s best years. Our membership grew by over 15 percent, our events consistently sold to capacity, including record attendance at the 26th Annual Awards Banquet, and our Developing Leaders (DL) program skyrocketed this year with strong programming. Additionally, in keeping in line with our aforementioned DL program, our chapter engaged NAIOP Corporate to relaunch our mentoring program, Mentorship Connect. Working with the board and our great DL leadership, Mentorship Connect booked over 66 mentorship sessions in 2019. While organizational growth has been positive, the policy landscape remains fraught with risks for the CRE community. Worrisome riverfront zoning implications, changes to incentives, inclusionary zoning, permitting gridlock, and possible tax increases, are just some of the policy concerns affecting the Pittsburgh CRE community. When matched with possible effects of the growing U.S. – China trade war, policy decisions by our elected leaders will play a critical role in determining the pace of investment growth. NAIOP Pittsburgh has engaged heavily with our elected leaders over the past year. And in the year to come, there will be no slowdown from us. The last year has been about re-establishing our presence at the policy table. The year to come will be about setting up and delivering legit policy wins for the Pittsburgh CRE community. As we close out the second half of 2019, NAIOP Pittsburgh will finish strong with great events for premium networking and continued advocacy for the CRE community. In October, NAIOP Pittsburgh will celebrate our 20th Annual Night At The Fights, which is the most unique event of any association in the Pittsburgh region. Additionally, our fall schedule is full of quality programming. Please visit www.naioppittsburgh.com to check out our upcoming programming and to find sponsorship information for Night At The Fights. Sincerely, Brandon J. Mendoza Executive Director NAIOP Pittsburgh **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh --- ### [Fall 2019 President's Message](https://www.credapgh.com/2019-9-13-fall-2019-presidents-message/) **Published:** September 13, 2019 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**As we head into fall, it is a great time to reflect on a very eventful year for development in general, and for NAIOP Pittsburgh as a Chapter. So many important and interesting projects are underway, recently completed or starting off. The explosion of great development projects in the strip, the continued tech emergence in Lawrenceville, airport corridor growth, and the first completed – and occupied – buildings at Hazelwood Green all bode well for our region and our industry. As a chapter, NAIOP Pittsburgh continues to make great progress in growing our membership, dramatically increasing our advocacy platform, and continuing to provide great networking and service to the real estate development community in the region.
**Content:** As we head into fall, it is a great time to reflect on a very eventful year for development in general, and for NAIOP Pittsburgh as a Chapter. So many important and interesting projects are underway, recently completed or starting off. The explosion of great development projects in the strip, the continued tech emergence in Lawrenceville, airport corridor growth, and the first completed – and occupied – buildings at Hazelwood Green all bode well for our region and our industry. As a chapter, NAIOP Pittsburgh continues to make great progress in growing our membership, dramatically increasing our advocacy platform, and continuing to provide great networking and service to the real estate development community in the region. One aspect that is particularly important to me, to NAIOP and to our region is our Developing Leaders (DLs) program. The DL program has grown tremendously, now totaling 111 members in the Pittsburgh chapter – nearly one-third of our membership. Our DLs are engaged and active, bringing new energy, new programs and new perspectives to the development industry. Importantly, our DLs are a very diverse crowd, showing that real estate can attract and support great careers for professionals of all ages, races and genders. Our DLs are clearly contributing to the more inclusive economy we all want to see. The growth in DLs reflects recognition of both the value of real estate as a career and its value to the overall economy in our region. Attracting talented young professionals to our ranks demonstrates a number of positive trends and perceptions: development is cool; it brings great projects into being; it is a key driver of the region’s economy; and it provides widespread professional opportunities – more so than at any time in recent memory. Younger professionals see an exciting and rewarding career that also allows them to help to grow the region and improve the quality of life for the residents. We all must remember, however, that public policy has the ability to facilitate continued development or to hinder it. While real estate development has had an unprecedented good run, our overall regional growth numbers still show challenges. Without an environment that makes new development attractive, we will face a shortage in the very near future of locations for the new and growing businesses that are putting Pittsburgh on so many “Best of” lists. Now is not the time to put the brakes on development. To do so would jeopardize the progress we’ve made as a region, and an industry, and poses a threat to the many good jobs in the development and construction industries. It would also jeopardize the region’s continued economic development overall. Real estate development has played a central role in boosting our region’s economy, including key contributions to the university driven tech economy in Lawrenceville and the Strip, and the improvements in East Liberty, Downtown, and the South Side. The commercial real estate development industry can continue to be a key partner in the emergence of new industries and neighborhoods, IF we make sure the environment for investment continues to be productive here. Our great staff at NAIOP Pittsburgh and your Board are working hard to ensure that the interests of the industry are well represented and to promote a broader appreciation of the fundamental contributions our industry makes to the prosperity of our region. Don Smith Jr. NAIOP Pittsburgh President **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** CREpgh, development, dlpgh, pittsburgh --- ### [It’s Not the Rent. It’s the Retention](https://www.credapgh.com/2019-6-19-its-not-the-rent-its-the-retention/) **Published:** June 19, 2019 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**You already know that the world’s best companies are moving into dynamic office spaces tailor made to look good on Instagram. But do you know the real reason that impressive lobbies, luxury amenities, giant fitness centers, and rooftop decks matter?
Yes, they help recruit top talent, increase productivity, enhance culture, and improve customer relations. But the real reason companies are making the move is far simpler: these spaces can save you millions of dollars per year.
**Content:** By Jim Scalo You already know that the world’s best companies are moving into dynamic office spaces tailor made to look good on Instagram. But do you know the real reason that impressive lobbies, luxury amenities, giant fitness centers, and rooftop decks matter?  Yes, they help recruit top talent, increase productivity, enhance culture, and improve customer relations. But the real reason companies are making the move is far simpler: these spaces can save you *millions of dollars* per year. Before we dive into how, let’s think about two questions: 1\. Do you think the employees at your company know what the rent is? (No.) 2\. Do you think the employees at your company know how their workspace makes them feel every day? (Yes.) It’s not about the rent. It’s about the retention. [According to Jack Altman](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-much-does-employee-turnover-really-cost_b_587fbaf9e4b0474ad4874fb7), CEO of Lattice, whenever an employee departs, the average company spends: · $25,000 to advertise the vacancy, interview candidates, and hire someone new · $10,000 on the on-boarding and development process · $50,000 on the resultant productivity drain That’s $85,000 per departing employee. American employers suffer through an [18.5% rate of turnover](https://getfive.com/blog/companys-turnover-rate-stand-national-average/) every year, so for every 100 people you employ, you lose $1.6 million dollars annually. And this is just the average. Turnover in upper management or among highly educated contributors costs a terrifying [213% of that person’s annual salary](https://www.peoplekeep.com/blog/bid/312123/employee-retention-the-real-cost-of-losing-an-employee). This might be tolerable if every vacant job could be filled immediately with top-quality candidates, but with the [shockingly low national unemployment rate](https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/05/03/us-economy-added-jobs-april-unemployment-fell-percent-lowest-since/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.a93d23eaacbf) of 3.6%, finding suitable replacements is more challenging than ever. [60% of employers](http://press.careerbuilder.com/2017-04-13-The-Skills-Gap-is-Costing-Companies-Nearly-1-Million-Annually-According-to-New-CareerBuilder-Survey) have to work through job openings for more than twelve weeks. How much productivity, revenue, and customer loyalty are you losing when a key job remains open for a full fiscal quarter? Outdated spaces also expose you to the potential for exodus. That turnover problem has a tendency to compound when your remaining employees see where everyone is going. Even if they don’t speak directly with departing employees, they have social media. They get text messages from friends they used to work with. Eventually, they will see the incredible spaces and cultures that their colleagues are departing for. When this happens, it is only a matter of time before one departure leads to two, then two become four, and eventually you are losing average employees and high-performers alike. How much would it cost to cede an entire team to a competitor? The productivity losses would be painful on their own, but what if that high-performer or team also takes customers with them? Customers don’t invest in companies; they invest in relationships. Turnover costs [an average of 12%](https://www.shrm.org/hr-today/news/hr-magazine/Documents/saratoga-improving-retention.pdf) of pre-tax income for the average company. For those with a high rate of turnover, the number can be as high as 40%. Most just shrug and accept this rate as unavoidable—especially today, when Millennials and Generation Z are so [notorious for job-hopping](https://www.gallup.com/workplace/231587/millennials-job-hopping-generation.aspx). They chalk it up as an uncontrollable cost of doing business. But it doesn’t have to be. [97% of respondents to a UK survey](https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118111511/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/impact-office-design-full-research.pdf) said that they viewed their workplace as a reflection of how much their employers value them. Meanwhile, only 37% believed that their offices were designed to make them happy, healthy, and productive, and nearly a third of them said they were ashamed to meet with clients in their offices. What if moving into a dynamic office space could improve your retention rate by 20%? That’s an annual savings of $320,000 just on the turnover costs we can measure, with considerably more bottom-line benefits related to the boost in engagement, morale, productivity, and customer relations. Long-tenured employees turn in better numbers across the board, so if you could convert 20% more of your employees into the long-tenured category, what would that mean to your company’s bottom line? The potential competitive advantage here is clear: if you have a dynamic office—one that your employees are so proud of that they share pictures of it on Instagram and brag about it to their friends and colleagues, you *will* retain more employees. Meanwhile, those employees you retain will be happier and more energized, engaged, and productive at work, all of which improves work product, customer relations, and ultimately, the bottom line. Better space, lower turnover expenses, more cohesive staff and culture, higher profits—it is no wonder that the world’s best companies are making this move to top notch office spaces that help recruit and retain high-performing people. Why aren’t you moving, too? **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Mendoza's viewpoint: Development restrictions won’t produce affordable housing](https://www.credapgh.com/2019-5-17-mendozas-viewpoint-development-restrictions-wont-produce-affordable-housing/) **Published:** May 17, 2019 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Our city’s leaders are correctly focused on maintaining housing affordability, and it is incumbent on all our leaders to work with them.
In the past few years, the city has convened a task force and developed policy options to preserve affordability. These actions have been important ones that top-tier cities preparing for growth should consider. While the funding mechanism — the realty transfer tax — is not the best option, its existence is a good thing for our city’s strategy.
**Content:** Our city’s leaders are correctly focused on maintaining housing affordability, and it is incumbent on all our leaders to work with them. In the past few years, the city has convened a task force and developed policy options to preserve affordability. These actions have been important ones that top-tier cities preparing for growth should consider. While the funding mechanism — the realty transfer tax — is not the best option, its existence is a good thing for our city’s strategy. Increased supply of housing is critical to maintaining affordability, but in Pittsburgh and other cities, a NIMBY (not in my backyard) approach to development is gaining momentum. The goal of these folks is to fight displacement by blocking development. However, basic economics tells us that you can’t lower or maintain low prices with supply restrictions that impede response to market demand. Pittsburgh City Council should incorporate this knowledge into its proposed inclusionary zoning pilot policy in Lawrenceville. [Read the full article here](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2019/05/17/mendozas-viewpoint-development-restrictions-won-t.html). *Written by Brandon Mendoza and published by the Pittsburgh Business Times*. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** affordablehousing, CREpgh, development --- ### [Spring 2019 Executive Director Message](https://www.credapgh.com/spring2019execdirectormessage/) **Published:** April 5, 2019 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**As we begin 2019, I am glad to report that Pittsburgh’s commercial real estate (CRE) outlook is strong, with increased demand for top tier inventory, strong growth in the tech sector, and an accelerating need to replace old inventory. However, as with most of the economy, external forces can impact the growth trajectory of our industry.
**Content:** As we begin 2019, I am glad to report that Pittsburgh’s commercial real estate (CRE) outlook is strong, with increased demand for top tier inventory, strong growth in the tech sector, and an accelerating need to replace old inventory. However, as with most of the economy, external forces can impact the growth trajectory of our industry. Nationally, monetary policy at the Federal Reserve and trade negotiations between the U.S. and China could swing the economy for the better or worse. A little closer to home, the continued lackluster GDP growth by the Commonwealth matched with minimal state incentive packages, and a snail’s paced permitting process, could raise threats to business investment in our state. Locally, the CRE community will need to convince policy makers that, despite the very real growth in development and investment, our region’s economy is nowhere near the growth trajectory we need to keep pace with other top tier cities. As we move into 2019, the CRE community must stay vigilant and prepared for the eventual policy and political debates. For example, the CRE community should focus on potential changes to the City of Pittsburgh’s Local Economic Revitalization Tax Act District (LERTA), which could alter the program in a shift to try to get more affordable housing. While this is not a bad policy goal, early analysis shows that the internal rate of return for the new LERTA would need to be attractive to a developer without added incentive. NAIOP Pittsburgh is engaged with City Council and is working to try to inject some potential alternative policies. The CRE community should also stay abreast of possible pilot inclusionary zones within the city. The first such zone could occur in Lawrenceville. When it comes to Harrisburg, the CRE community must stay engaged in the budget and policy deliberations. While there are no broad-based tax increases included in the Governor’s budget proposal, there are some policy debates worth following in 2019, including: marijuana legalization, natural gas severance taxes, minimum wage increases, PA Turnpike’s financials and its impact on transit funding. Furthermore, for those of us in Southwestern Pennsylvania, we should be aware that in the aftermath of last year’s election, a lot of power in Harrisburg went to Southeastern Democrats, who not only gained seats, but also, more importantly, gained several leadership positions. Lastly, the CRE community must keep abreast of the upcoming municipal elections and the always important presidential election. As I am writing this, there are more than half a dozen Democrats entered into the primary for the Democratic nomination. The policies offered by them will determine the contrast going into 2020. And this contrast could offer significant risks for the CRE community. Rest assured that NAIOP Pittsburgh will stay vigilant in 2019 and will work to keep our members abreast of relevant developments. If you or your firms have any policy concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me and my team. Sincerely, Brandon J. Mendoza Executive Director NAIOP Pittsburgh **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Celebrating Excellence In Development](https://www.credapgh.com/celebratingexcellenceindevelopment/) **Published:** March 25, 2019 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**On March 28th, 2019, we will be co-chairing the annual prestigious Pittsburgh NAIOP Awards Banquet. We are so proud and excited to be a part of this event…
**Content:** On March 28th, 2019, we will be co-chairing the annual prestigious Pittsburgh NAIOP Awards Banquet. We are so proud and excited to be a part of this event, and to date there are over 800 attendees. The year 2018 marked another great time for development in and around the city of Pittsburgh. There were so many great projects, the committee had a difficult task in selecting our eight award winners for the evening. Many top-notch developments just missed the cutoff date this year, but will definitely be in the mix for 2020. While we roll out all of the details during the Awards Banquet, we wanted to highlight a bit of information on our award winning projects and individuals. Our first award is **Office Renovation**. The award goes to the M&J Wilkow & Centersquare Investment Management for their overhaul of 420 Boulevard of the Allies.  420 Boulevard of the Allies involved extensive renovations to the 157,290 square foot core and shell to re-purpose the building from the former Art Institute of Pittsburgh to a commercial office use. For **Speculative-Industrial**, the award goes to 200 Solar completed by Ashley Capital.  In late 2015, Ashley Capital acquired 24 acres in Findlay Industrial Park located approximately 3 miles from I-376 and the Pittsburgh International Airport in metropolitan Pittsburgh’s fastest growing industrial submarket. In 2016 Ashley began construction of a 316,000 square foot, state-of-the-art, distribution/light industrial facility known as Findlay Commerce Center (FCC). FCC is the largest speculative industrial building built in metropolitan Pittsburgh since 2008. FCC’s first tenant was Bridgestone Tire, now known as TireHub. TireHub was joined by National Tire Wholesale and just recently by Signode Industrial Group. Our newest awards category, **Tech Flex,** goes to RIDC for Tech Forge on 47th. Tech Forge was built on the historic 14-acre Heppenstall Steel Company site, a Pennsylvania Brownfield as defined by Land Recycling and Environmental Remediation Standards Act.  A number of funders helped contribute to the Tech Forge project including: Huntington Bank, US Bank, PIDA, Pittsburgh Urban Initiative and Mid-City Community. The total capital investment in the Tech Forge project was approximately $22 million. In our **Built-to-Suit** Office category Oxford Development takes home the trophy for their Argo AI at 3 Crossings development.  3 Crossings is a 20-acre mixed-use development in the vibrant and eclectic Strip District neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Argo AI was established to tackle one of the most challenging applications in computer science, robotics and artificial intelligence: self-driving vehicles. Our **2019 Driver of Development** is The Mosites Company for their catalytic developments in the Eastside, beginning with Eastside I or, as many of you know it, Wholefoods.  Phase I of the project saw the opening of Whole Foods Market in 2002, with sales that nearly tripled the company projections, proving wrong those who thought the location was too urban and risky to support retail activity. Our **2019 Developer of the Year** is Al. Neyer. Al. Neyer has been dominating industrial development in our market with its significant, multi-phase Clinton Commerce Center speculative project in Findlay Township, and build-to-suit projects for clients like Hennecke, Inc. The firm has been working in Pittsburgh for nearly 20 years and has a reputation for its ability to solve problems and provide clients with excellent communication and personal service.  Finally, for our individual awards, we have two great leaders up for **Hall of Fame** and **Supporter of Development**, Jim Palmer and Dick Donley.  The Supporter of Development award goes to Jim Palmer. As President of CED, Mr. Palmer facilitates private investment and job creation by managing the strategic investments made in businesses and communities to expand and diversify the Beaver County economy. Jim has over 40 years of community and economic development experience. Palmer’s leadership was integral in attracting Shell Chemicals to Beaver County, navigating both the local and state waters.  NAIOP’s Hall of Fame award goes to Dick Donley. Mr. Donley has devoted his career to the commercial real estate community in Pittsburgh. Dick is the president of Chaska Property Advisors. Beginning with his first job, working for Pittsburgh National Bank in 1972, Mr. Donley spent two decades financing commercial real estate deals, working also for Westinghouse Credit and Carey Kramer Crouse & Associates. He seized an opportunity to partner with Mike Zamagias in 1990 in a venture known as Delta Property Holdings, which worked out and restructured seven million square feet of shopping centers. In 1999, Donley saw an opportunity to begin developing projects, forming Chaska Property Advisors and taking over the build out of the Cranberry Business Park. The high caliber of this year’s awardees is evident, and we look forward to celebrating their excellence on March 28th at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. With over 700 RSVPs the 26th Annual NAIOP Pittsburgh Awards Banquet should be one of the best. Development Happens Here! If you’re not registered, we encourage you to sign up to attend [here.](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/events/2019awardsbaquet)  **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Industrial Leasing Continues Strong Pace](https://www.credapgh.com/2018-12-3-industrial-leasing-continues-strong-pace/) **Published:** December 7, 2018 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Hanna Langholz Wilson Ellis recently released our November 2018 Western PA Industrial Market Report. The report outlines the typical market statistics, but more importantly evaluates the users of industrial space in our area, which is necessary to understand for developers and Brokers alike.
**Content:** Photo provided by Hanna Langholz Wilson Ellis AJ Pantoni, Director of Industrial Brokerage Jim Winter, Senior Director of Corporate Services and Commercial Brokerage **Pittsburgh, PA** — Hanna Langholz Wilson Ellis recently released our November 2018 Western PA Industrial Market Report. The report outlines the typical market statistics, but more importantly evaluates the users of industrial space in our area, which is necessary to understand for developers and Brokers alike. The region has the eye of a few specific types of users. The area is seeing interest from companies looking to onshore their critical inventory in order to avoid tariffs. There is significant uptake from oil and gas related companies as well as logistics companies looking for warehouse space. Solar farm operators are looking for underutilized, topographically challenged land. In fact, the state of Pennsylvania has mandated that by 2020, 0.5% of all electric generation must come from renewables such as solar power. Vertical Farming operations are interested in coming to the market as well. We expect interest in the area to continue for the next 8-12 quarters. In order to fulfill this appetite and alleviate the low vacancy rate, additional land will be needed for build-to-suit requirements. In September, Pantoni and Winter announced the availability of a 1,200-acre site in Washington County. The site is called Zediker Station and is expected to attract national attention from logistics, light manufacturing, and high tech users. This rare site would be ideal for such users referenced above. Read more about the [report here.](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2018/11/21/industrial-leasing-sector-steady-busy-pittsburgh.html) **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Blog – 2018 Technology Report: Pittsburgh is not the Next Silicon Valley, but Something Else](https://www.credapgh.com/2018-technology-report/) **Published:** October 18, 2018 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**Pittsburgh’s technology environment is different than any other market in the world and it is showing no signs of slowing down. Exclusive industry data and insights in JLL’s new 2018 Pittsburgh Technology Report illustrates the uniqueness of the city’s growth.
**Content:** Pittsburgh’s technology environment is different than any other market in the world and it is showing no signs of slowing down. Exclusive industry data and insights in JLL’s new [2018 Pittsburgh Technology Report](https://jll.box.com/s/v5pj8mot85ggg9uld6rgzgc41wp4t5i6) illustrates the uniqueness of the city’s growth. Tobiah Bilski Senior Research Analyst JLL Pittsburgh In the past five years, Pittsburgh has seen significant commercial development growth around the urban core. Ultimately driven mainly by top universities like Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and the University of Pittsburgh (PITT) the technology growth in the region is being fueled by an increasing population of young talent. In 2010, there were 279 technology companies in Pittsburgh. That number has since grown 77% to 495 companies located in the region today. These companies, which include those in Information Technology, Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Materials, Environmental Technology, Energy Technology and Robotics, are producing a surge of activity. Although Pittsburgh historically has been viewed as a blue-collar Rust Belt city, five of the top six most valuable technology companies in the world have a growing presence in Pittsburgh. In addition to the big names in the industry, the tech environment is also different. The blue-collar tradition of the city mixed with the limited exposure to capital fosters a unique breed of companies. ### Robotics Lead the Way One sector driving the regional economy is robotics. According the PRA’s investment scorecard, in 2017, the sector emerged as the most active sector in southwestern Pennsylvania for the first time ever with 59 investment announcements. It was also the leading sector for job generation, bringing more than 1,800 new jobs to Pittsburgh. Of the 59 investment announcements made last year in the greater Pittsburgh region, 51 took place within the city. The autonomous vehicle industry is heavily concentrated in the Strip District and Lawrenceville. This emerging “Robotics Row” area is responsible for 20% of the announcements. ### University Collaboration is Key Pittsburgh’s technology industry is also being driven by the 31 four-year public and private colleges/universities in the city and surrounding counties. Most notably, the University of Pittsburgh (PITT) and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) are supplying the industry with top talent. The collaboration between these two universities is a big differentiator from other tech hubs. Since the early 2000s, PITT and CMU have joined forces to expand the region’s bioscience industry. Today, CMU is the leading computer science university in the world and PITT ranks within the top three of NIH-funded research institutes. ### Looking Ahead: Building Pittsburgh For the first two quarters of 2018, 72.7% of technology industry office leasing took place in the urban core. In fact, at the end of Q2 2018, there were over 600,000 square feet of technology requirements in the market. In the third quarter, one of those requirements landed. Facebook signed for the entire 105,000 square-foot District Fifteen in the Strip District. When selecting office locations, there are several aspects technology companies must consider: - Pittsburgh’s labor market is highly competitive, with unemployment rates at 4.4% for June 2018. Location plays an important role in exposure, recruitment and retention. - While proximity to the universities and amenities matter, so do the area’s existing tenant mix and reputation. - Certain neighborhoods appeal to specific types of technology companies. However, once a company starts recruiting across the country, emphasis on the look and feel of the actual workplace overrule specific neighborhood preferences. **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [NAIOP Pittsburgh Blog – President’s Note](https://www.credapgh.com/2018-10-16-presidentsnote/) **Published:** October 16, 2018 **Author:** studios **Excerpt:**As my second and final term as President for NAIOP Pittsburgh is coming to a close at the end of 2018, I am pleased to report that the Chapter is strong and, more importantly, positioned well for the future of commercial real estate in the region.
**Content:** As my second and final term as President for NAIOP Pittsburgh is coming to a close at the end of 2018, I am pleased to report that the Chapter is strong and, more importantly, positioned well for the future of commercial real estate in the region. David Weisberg NAIOP Pittsburgh President BNY Mellon Wealth Management In my two years as President, we have had a great deal of successes. We have continued to focus on the three core goals that grew out of our 2017 strategic plan – Advocacy, Membership and Communications. These will guide NAIOP Pittsburgh as we plan for the future. Highlights have included: - Hired three outstanding people starting with Brandon Mendoza (Executive Director), David Caliguiri (Public Affairs Consultant) and Erica Loftus (Chapter Administrator). - Record sponsorship and greater than 650 guests at our 25th Annual Awards Banquet in 2018. - Honored our outgoing Executive Director Leo Castagnari who served NAIOP Pittsburgh well for twenty years. I would encourage others to recognize Leo with a contribution to the Castagnari Family Charitable Fund through pittsburghfoundation.org. - Became active and engaged in local issues impacting commercial real estate investment and development in the region including the City of Pittsburgh’s Riverfront Zoning initiative and the increase in the City of Pittsburgh’s real estate transfer tax. - Hosted innovative and attractive programming by our Developing Leaders with project tours across the region including a half-day bus tour for multiple airport properties, a project tour of the Kaufmann’s Grand on Fifth Avenue luxury apartment project and a lunchtime tour of 420 Boulevard of the Allies with special guest speaker Dan Gilman, Mayor Peduto’s Chief of Staff. - Continuation of the Mentorship Program for our Developing Leaders. - Visits to Harrisburg to discuss commercial real estate development issues with our elected and public officials. Agenda items included: - streamlining DEP state permitting processes - support of the Bus Rapid Transit between Oakland and Downtown Pittsburgh - allow for 1031 like-kind real estate exchanges to be recognized in Pennsylvania - pushing for reduction of proposed increase to Electric Standby Tariff with Public Utility Commission - Visits to Washington DC to discuss commercial real estate development issues with our elected officials. - Support of infrastructure and transportation investment. - Ensure capital and credit markets meet the current and future needs of the commercial real estate industry. - Support of Environment and Energy Efficiency. - Reengaging the Construction Legislative Council and with the Building Owners and Manager’s Association’s legislative affairs committee to combine efforts on shared goals. The groundwork has been established for NAIOP Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania to continue to thrive as NAIOP Pittsburgh has been investing resources for the betterment of the commercial estate community. It’s been an honor to be at the helm during this exciting time. Thank you! **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ## Pages ### [Home](https://www.credapgh.com/) **Published:** April 24, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:**   ### EVENTS Chapter breakfasts, project tours, golf outings and more – this is where Pittsburgh CRE connects. [View Events](https://www.credapgh.com/events/)  ### ADVOCACY Cutting red tape and clearing the path for development across the region. [Support our PAC](https://www.credapgh.com/pac/)  ### SPONSOR Elevate your brand and support CREDA’s mission across Pittsburgh’s CRE community [Sponsor Now](https://www.credapgh.com/sponsor/)  ### JOIN Build connections, stay informed, make deals. This is CREDA Pittsburgh. [Become a Member](https://www.credapgh.com/membership/)  ## UPCOMING EVENTS AUG 11  ### [Quarterly Chapter-Wide Advocacy Call (Members Only)](https://www.credapgh.com/events/quarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only/) Reservation details tba. View Details AUG 20  ### [2026 DL Golf Outing](https://www.credapgh.com/events/2026-dl-golf-outing/) Cranberry Highlands Golf Course 5601 Freshcorn Rd, Cranberry Twp, PA 16066 View Details SEP 17  ### [September Chapter Meeting](https://www.credapgh.com/events/september-chapter-meeting/) View Details See All Events ## ADVOCACY #### Our PAC puts CRE’s priorities in front of the people who write the rules. ## State Level We’re working to slash permit timelines and improve funding sources to keep projects moving. [Learn More](#) ## Local Level We’re pushing Pittsburgh toward real permitting reform — faster approvals, more predictable timelines. [Learn More](#)  [Give to the PAC](#) # A look at Commercial Real Estate Development’s impact on the Pennsylvania Economy in 2025 ### Jobs Created/Supported ### Wages & Salaries Generated ### Contributed to the PA Economy ## CREDA FAQ Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned professional, CREDA connects you to the people, insights, and opportunities that move commercial real estate forward. Explore our FAQs to learn how CREDA helps you build relationships, stay informed, and make a greater impact in the region. ##### What is CREDA Pittsburgh? CREDA Pittsburgh is a leading association for developers, owners, investors, and professionals in commercial real estate, focused on advancing the industry through relationships, education, and advocacy. ##### What are the benefits of joining CREDA? Membership provides access to high-value networking, educational resources, and strategic partnerships that help members grow their business and stay ahead in a competitive market. ##### What types of events does CREDA offer? CREDA hosts regular events, including industry panels, networking gatherings, and educational programs designed to connect professionals and provide insights into market trends and opportunities. ##### How does CREDA support the commercial real estate industry? CREDA actively advocates for policies that reduce regulatory barriers, lower costs, and accelerate development timelines, helping create a stronger and more predictable business environment. ##### Who should consider joining CREDA? CREDA is ideal for anyone involved in commercial real estate—including developers, brokers, engineers, architects, and investors—who want to build relationships and play a role in shaping the region’s future. ##### How much does it cost to join CREDA PGH? Full Member: $865 – The first person from an organization to join. Affiliate Member: $365 – The second or subsequent person from an organization to join. Developing Leader (DL) Member: $275 – Individuals 35 years old and under. Public Official Member: $310 – Individuals employed by a local, state or federal government or nonprofit organization. Student Member: $31 – Full-time students who are not otherwise employed in the commercial real estate industry. Student members are eligible for reduced membership rates. ##### How can my company sponsor a CREDA event, and what are the benefits? Sponsorships are available for events throughout the year, from chapter breakfasts to our Annual Awards Banquet. Benefits typically include brand visibility on event materials and our website, complimentary tickets, and direct access to the region’s top developers, owners, and CRE professionals. Reach out to to see available packages. ##### How do I get involved beyond membership There are plenty of ways to plug in: join a committee, mentor through our Developing Leaders program, volunteer with Skyline Academy to build the next generation of CRE talent, or support our advocacy work and PAC. Email and we’ll point you to the right opportunity. ## Developing Leaders CREDA’s Developing Leaders program is the catalyst you’ve been looking for to propel your career to the next level. We provide the tools, networking and resources you need to gain that competitive edge. If you’re a commercial real estate professional who’s 35 or under, your DL community can take you from where you are now, to where you want to be! [Learn More](https://www.credapgh.com/developing-leaders/) ## Skyline Academy The CREDA Pittsburgh Skyline Academy will introduce high school students to career possibilities in commercial real estate (CRE), helping to build a pipeline of talent in Pittsburgh CRE. CREDA Pittsburgh presents a unique learning experience that will immerse 25 rising juniors and seniors in the world of CRE. [Learn More](https://www.credapgh.com/skyline-academy/) ## Job Board Discover career opportunities across commercial real estate through the CREDA Pittsburgh Job Board. Designed to connect professionals, students, and industry talent with leading employers, the platform features openings shared directly by CREDA Pittsburgh members across development, construction, brokerage, property management, finance, and other related fields. [Visit Job Board](https://joblistings.credapgh.com)  ## NEWSROOM [](https://www.credapgh.com/effective-today-july-1-2026-naiop-pittsburgh-has-officially-become-creda-pittsburgh-commercial-real-estate-development-association/) ##### [Effective today, July 1, 2026, NAIOP Pittsburgh has officially become CREDA Pittsburgh (Commercial Real Estate Development Association).](https://www.credapgh.com/effective-today-july-1-2026-naiop-pittsburgh-has-officially-become-creda-pittsburgh-commercial-real-estate-development-association/) Jul 1, 2026 While our name is changing, our mission remains the same—to connect industry leaders, advocate for responsible development, educate professionals, and strengthen Western Pennsylvania through commercial real estate. Commercial real estate plays a vital role in... --- ### [Sponsor](https://www.credapgh.com/sponsor/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # Sponsor  Awards Banquet  Golf Outing  Night at the Fights  Ski Outing  Gavel  Clays Shoot       #### Annual Awards Banquet After much consideration, our organization has decided to change the Awards Banquet for 2026. We will be segmenting the event into two distinct groups of attendees. Below we will outline a new sponsorship & ticketing structure, as well as the revised format for this year’s event. **4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.:** Pre-Reception Happy Hour (350 attendees) - - - Will feature appetizers and an open bar. **5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.:** Awards Ceremony (350 attendees) - - - Sit-down dinner. **5:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.:** Post Reception Celebration (up to 950 attendees) - - - Will include an open bar and food stations. **Presenting Sponsorship:** Columbia Gas of PA **Pre-Reception Sponsor:** Metz Lewis **Post Reception Celebration Sponsor:** Pittsburgh Regional Alliance **Transportation Sponsor:** ECS Limited **Platinum Sponsorship:** (SOLD OUT) **Gold Sponsorship:** (SOLD OUT) [Sponsor the Awards Banquet](mailto:tfrank@credapgh.com) #### Full Event Sponsorship Opportunities: Includes the pre-reception happy hour, awards ceremony, and post-reception celebration. ## Pre-Reception Sponsor Sold Out $8,000 - Table of 10 Attendees for the pre-reception happy hour, awards ceremony, and post-reception celebration - Ad in Digital Program (to play on jumbo screens throughout the event) - Logos to be placed in regional news publications - Name/logo in prominent location on a/v presentation as + Pre-Reception Sponsor - Logo on all advertisements - Logo on all invitations - Website presence - Signage throughout the entire event - List of Attendees ## Platinum Sponsor Sold Out $7,500 - Table of 10 Attendees for the pre-reception happy hour, awards ceremony, and post-reception celebration - Ad in Digital Program (to play on jumbo screens throughout the event) - Logos to be placed in regional news publications - Name/logo in prominent location on a/v presentation - Logo on all advertisements - Logo on all invitations - Website presence - Signage throughout the entire event - List of Attendees ## Gold Sponsor Sold Out $5,500 - Table of 10 Attendees for the pre-reception happy hour, awards ceremony, and post-reception celebration - Ad in Digital Program (to play on jumbo screens throughout the event) - Name/logo in a/v presentation - Name on half-page or larger ads - Name recognition on the invitation - Website presence - Signage throughout the entire event ## Silver Sponsorship Limited Remaining $3,500 - Table of 5 Attendees for the pre-reception happy hour, awards ceremony, and post-reception celebration - Ad in Digital Program (to play on jumbo screens throughout the event) - Name/logo in a/v presentation - Name on half-page or larger ads - Name recognition on the invitation - Website presence - Signage throughout the entire event #### Post-Reception Celebration Sponsorship and Ticket Opportunities: This includes only the post-reception celebration. Ticket packages and single tickets will be on sale Monday, April 6th. Save it on your calendar! ## Bronze Sponsor + 5 tickets $3,000 - Package of 10 tickets for the post-reception celebration only. Includes open bar and food stations. - Name listed in a/v presentation during the awards ceremony - Name on half-page or larger ads - Name recognition on the invitation - Website presence - Signage throughout the entire event ## Bronze Sponsor $2,200 - Package of 5 tickets for the post-reception celebration only. Includes open bar and food stations. - Name listed in a/v presentation during the awards ceremony - Name on half-page or larger ads - Name recognition on the invitation - Website presence - Signage throughout the entire event ## Member Package $2,000 - 10 tickets to the post-reception celebration only - Includes open bar and food stations ## Member Single Ticket $210 - 1 ticket to the post-reception celebration only - Includes open bar and food station ## Non-Member Package $2,500 - 10 tickets to the post-reception celebration only - Includes open bar and food stations ## Non-Member Ticket $250 - 1 ticket to the post-reception celebration only - Includes open bar and food stations #### Annual Golf Outing – June 1, 2026 [Sponsor the Golf Outing](mailto:info@credapgh.com) **Presenting Sponsor:** Interested? **On-Course Beverage Sponsor:** $1,500 each (Limit 4) **Bloody Mary Bar Sponsor:** $500 each (3 Available) **Happy Hour Sponsor:** $500 each (3 Available) **Hole Sponsor:** $150 #### Annual Night at the Fights [Sponsor Night at the Fights](https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KJ7STBM) ## Heavyweight Sponsor $7,000 - Ringside Table for 10 - Logo on Email Invitations - Logo in ads - Signage at Dinner - Full Page in Digital Program - Social Media Exposure & Recognition - Logo on NAIOP website - Premium Service ## Middleweight Sponsor $5,000 - 2nd Row Seating Table for 10 - Mention on Email Invitations - Signage at Dinner - Full Page in Digital Program - Social Media Exposure & Recognition - Logo on NAIOP website - Complimentary wine - Mention in ad ## Welterweight Sponsor $4,000 - Next best seating - Table for 10 - Signage at Dinner - Full Page in Digital Program - Social Media Exposure & Recognition - Logo on NAIOP website #### Annual Ski Outing [Sponsor the Ski Outing](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-ski-outing-tickets-1976519016585?aff=oddtdtcreator) ## Presenting Sponsor Limit One $2,400 - 6 full event tickets - Logo recognition - Welcome attendees at registration ## Black Diamond Sponsor $750 - 3 Full event tickets - Logo recognition ## Blue Square Sponsor $495 - 2 full event tickets - Logo recognition ## Green Circle Sponsor $225 - Logo recognition #### Gavel Sponsorship: $4,000 Invest in your organization’s ability to reach key real estate leaders in Pittsburgh and beyond. - - - Representation at all Chapter Meetings (2 tickets). - Website Visibility. - Name badges that indicate you are a Gavel Sponsor. - Visibility on all Chapter Meeting announcements reaching over 2,100 invitees and over 6,100 on social media (Statistics as of December 2025). - Sponsor cards placed on each table for each Chapter Meeting. - The opportunity to distribute company information at all Chapter meetings. - Individual callouts in weekly NAIOP Pittsburgh email and on NAIOP Pittsburgh social media accounts. - A complete attendee and company list (upon request) for Chapter Meetings #### 2026 Gavel Sponsorship is closed #### CREDA-CREW Clays Shoot #### Monday, June 15, 2026 [Sponsor the Clay Shoot](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-naiop-crew-pittsburgh-clays-shoot-tickets-1983470931951?aff=oddtdtcreator) This program is a partnership amongst educational institutions, including Carlow University, CREDA Pittsburgh, and corporations invested in supporting the next generation of commercial real estate talent in Pittsburgh. Discover more about Carlow University at [carlow.edu](https://www.carlow.edu/). ## Event Sponsor $3,000 - Acknowledgement on website and on event flyer, signage at the event (the most prominent), social media posts - Acknowledgement at start of event - Time allocated to address attendees at lunch - Registration for one full squad of shooters ## Lunch Sponsor $1,250 - Large sign at lunch and smaller tabletop signs, acknowledgement at start of event and lunch - Mentioned on CREDA Pittsburgh website and social media ## Ammunition Sponsor $750 - Name/logo on sign placed on shooting rail at each station - Acknowledgement at start of the event and lunch. - Mentioned on CREDA Pittsburgh website and social media. ## Signature Drink Sponsor $750 - We offer a signature drink at this event! The sponsor gets signage at the bar. - Acknowledgement at start of event and lunch. ## Breakfast Sponsorship $650 - Large sign at breakfast buffet - Acknowledgement at start of the event and lunch. - Mentioned on CREDA Pittsburgh website and social media ## Cart Sponsorship $500 - Signage on all carts - Acknowledgement at start of the event and lunch. - Mentioned on CREDA Pittsburgh website and social media ## Clipboard Sponsorship $500 - Company logo stickers placed on scorecard clipboards that each squad will carry with them. - Acknowledgement at start of the event and lunch. - Mentioned on CREDA Pittsburgh website and social media ## Snack Sponsorship $300 - Signage to the two areas where the snacks are placed - Acknowledgement at start of the event and lunch. - Mentioned on CREDA Pittsburgh website and social media ## Station Signs $150 - One sign at one station --- ### [About](https://www.credapgh.com/about/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # About ## Connecting Leaders. Shaping Pittsburgh’s Future. ## Connecting Leaders. Shaping Pittsburgh’s Future. #### Our Mission #### CREDA Pittsburgh Staff CREDA Pittsburgh is Southwestern Pennsylvania’s regional commercial real estate association of developers, owners, investors, and professionals. We support the growth of the commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, and thought leadership to support economic growth and high-quality development. CREDA Pittsburgh is the regional chapter of CREDA. CREDA is the leading organization for developers, owners and investors of office, industrial, retail and mixed-use real estate. CREDA comprises 20,000+ members and provides strong advocacy, education and business opportunities through a powerful North American network. #### CREDA Pittsburgh Staff  #### Tom Frank Chapter Executive Director Tom Frank earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree, with a minor in Construction Management, from Philadelphia University in 2014. Before joining CREDA Pittsburgh, he worked at Desmone, where he served as a Project Manager and, most recently, Regional Growth Manager. It was at Desmone that Tom discovered his passion for commercial real estate and the many moving parts that make responsible development possible. Tom’s involvement with the chapter runs deep. He joined in 2014, became active in the Developing Leaders program, and was honored to serve as its Chairperson in 2022. Since then, he has been a driving force on the chapter’s Advocacy Committee, sharpening his focus on the intersection of responsible development and sound legislation. Outside of work, Tom enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and cooking. He and his wife have two dogs and three cats.  #### Erica Loftus Chapter Administrator Erica earned her degree in Communications from Geneva College in 2006 and shortly thereafter fell in love with being engaged in the community. The majority of her career has been helping to define and grow non-profit organizations. For five years, Erica served as the President of the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce where she thrived on a balance of creativity and structure while managing and implementing various projects. In 2017, Erica launched [Nala Marketing](https://www.nalamarketing.com/) and took on NAIOP Pittsburgh as a client, serving the organization in the role as Chapter Administrator. Erica is married and resides in the Pittsburgh suburbs with her husband and two pups. #### Board of Directors  #### President Nate Phillips Chapman Properties - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-phillips-1632b344/)  #### President-Elect Alyssa Kunselman Mascaro Construction - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssakunselman/)  #### Secretary Clayton Morris Sampson Morris Group - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-morris-b54a2915/)  #### Treasurer Samantha Kite Cohen & Company - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthakite/)  #### Past President Brandon Snyder Merus - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-snyder-07aa043/) #### At Large Board Members  Bradley Ott Faros Properties - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-ott-b5912a20/)  Lauren Connelly Allegheny County Economic Development - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-connelly-0053471b/)  #### Events Committee Co-Chair Aaron Roach Hillis-Carnes - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-roach-47185851/)  #### Local Advocacy Committee Chair Benjamin Kelley WaypointKLA - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-kelley-b833ba12/)  #### Golf Committee Chair Tyler Noland PenTrust  #### Local Advocacy Committee Kelsey Kanspedos Regional Industrial Development Corp. - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-kanspedos-r-l-a-20743153/)  Cheri Bomar Hardy World, LLC - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheri-bomar-b18852b/)  #### Membership Committee Co-Chair Jackie Bezek JLL - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie%E2%9C%A8-bezek-90124348/)  #### Finance Committee John Robinson Michael Baker International - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhrobinson3/)  #### Membership Committee Co-Chair Michael Connor Hanna Commercial - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-connor-sior-aa4b5583/)  Dean Welch McCafferty Interests - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-welch-b3503125/)  #### State Advocacy Committee Brian Temple Imperial Land Corporation - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-temple-46880b11/)  #### Advisory Board Chair Jason Stewart JLL - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasontstewart/)  #### General Counsel Amanda Daquelente Meyer, Unkovic & Scott - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-daquelente-1521a07/)  #### DL Chairperson Jake Heaton Desmone - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/heaton34/)  #### DL Past Chairperson Erica Wilkerson Gaus Workspace Solutions - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-wilkerson-gaus-8a133198/) #### Executive Committee **Nate Phillips,** President – Chapman Properties **Alyssa Kunselman**, President Elect – Mascaro Construction **Clayton Morris**, Secretary – Sampson Morris Group **Sam Kite**, Treasurer – Cohen & Company **Brandon Snyder,** Immediate-Past President – Merus #### 2026 Advisory Board **Jason Stewart** – Managing Director, Agency Leasing *JLL Pittsburgh* **Don Smith Jr** – President RIDC, (CREDA Pittsburgh Past President and former CREDA Global Board Member) **Bill Hunt** – President and CEO Elmhurst, (CREDA Pittsburgh Past President and former Chair of the Board for CREDA Global) **Brian Walker** – President NAI Burns Scalo, (CREDA Pittsburgh Past President and former Chair of the Board for CREDA Global) **Lou Oliva** – Executive Managing Director Newmark Pittsburgh, (CREDA Pittsburgh Past President) #### Hall of Fame **Lynn DeLorenzo** – Chapter President, 2012 **Gerald “Jerry” Bunda** **Dominic Dozzi** – Chapter President **Richard Donley** – Chapter President, 2010-11 **Larry Simpson** – Chapter President, 1995 **Robert Stephenson** – Chapter President, 1981-82 **Bill Hunt** – Chapter President, 2001 **Pat Tarquinio** – Chapter President, 1993 **Lou Oliva** – Chapter President, 1996-97 **James Scalo** – Chapter President, 1994 **John Hoy** – Chapter President, 2000 **Tom Murphy** – Chapter President, 1983-86 **Gregory Quatchak** – Chapter President, 2005-06 **DeWitt Peart** – Chapter President, 1998-99 #### Committees ### Advocacy – State and Local This is the committee responsible for monitoring governmental issues (including legislative action) and creating an awareness of these issues among the chapter membership. The Advocacy Committee plans and executes CREDA’s legislative objectives and strategies for the year. By hosting legislative forums, participating in grass roots lobbying and organizing important legislative activities, committee members help CREDA stay in front of important industry issues. **Local Advocacy Committee Chair:** Ben Kelley **State Advocacy Committee Chair:** Pat Byrne **Local Committee Members:** Lynn DeLorenzo, Kaylyn Weisner, Alyssa Kunselman, Kyra Sarver, Jamie White, Meredith Calfe, Chris Cooper, Justin Hunt, David Caliguiri, Jonathan Glance, Lance Chimka, Kelsey Kanspedos **State Committee Members:** Nate Phillips, Brian Temple, Ryan Schwotzer, David Caliguiri, Mike Goldstrum, Keith Miller, Tysen Miller, Lance Chimka, Steve Regan, Lisa Bruderly, Steve Mazza, Mary Binker, Michael Takacs, John Frydrych, Aaron Roach, and Ben Bush ### Programs Committee This committee is responsible for planning and executing the programs for all of the monthly chapter meetings during the calendar year. Its main objective is to continue building CREDA’s proud history of providing cutting-edge programs tailored specifically for real estate professionals. The Program Committee is always open to suggestions from the membership. This is the committee responsible for raising additional funds for chapter operations through sponsorship of monthly meetings (the “Gavel Sponsor” program) and through other special events (planned and managed through several subcommittees). The special subcommittees of the Program Committee are: Annual Awards Banquet; Night-At-The-Fights Event; and, the Annual Golf Outing. **Committee Co-Chairs:** Aaron Roach & Dom Broglia **Committee Members:** Dennis Dunmire, Kelsey Kanspedos, Alyssa Kunselman, Tom Baughman, Matt Brindamour, Ann Sekley, Reid Cservak, Gus Scalo, Steve Regan, Sabreena Miller, Paul Messineo, Tyler Noland ### Membership The Membership Committee is responsible for the recruitment and retention of Chapter members. Committee members participate in monthly Committee meetings and plan membership initiatives (e.g. marketing blitzes, membership discounts, social events, and membership-drive functions). The Committee also hosts new members at Chapter events. This is the committee responsible for retaining existing members, recruiting new members, and promoting involvement among all members. The Membership Committee acts to promote membership and retain existing members in CREDA. The Committee administers organization membership policies and issues membership applications as needed. The Committee initiates selective programs as needed to promote new members and follows up with members who have elected not to renew their membership. The following are the specific responsibilities of the Committee: Identify prospects/targeted individuals and recruit as new members with a specific focus on attracting Principal members. Develop and implement an annual survey to identify members’ reasons for joining the Chapter and their needs. Follow-up with non-members who attend Chapter meetings to discuss their consideration of membership. Follow-up with members who do not renew to determine their reasons for non-renewal (exit interviews). **Committee Co-Chairs:** Jackie Bezek & Mike Connor **Committee Members:** Tom Baughman, Kim Harkobusic, Taylor Thompson, Nick Scalo, Nick Zbur, Charlie Salazar, Victor Konno, David Mitros ### Communications – Coming Fall of 2026 The Communications Committee creates and implements strategies to make certain CREDA and its members are kept informed and are heard on important issues in the local media. It also works to ensure CREDA listens and responds to the voices of its members. The Communications Committee oversees the ongoing redesign of the CREDA website, keeping it on the cutting edge and helps produce Developing Pittsburgh, the chapter’s magazine. This is the committee that is responsible for creating informative and necessary verbal/written communications to chapter members utilizing various mediums. The Communications Committee is responsible for CREDA’s outreach, media relations, and Chapter communications. **Committee Chair:** Coming Soon **Committee Members:** Reach out to [Tom Frank](mailto:tfrank@credapgh.com) if interested in being a part of this committee. --- ### [Developing Leaders](https://www.credapgh.com/developing-leaders/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # Developing Leaders ## Developing Connections. Developing Leaders. ## Developing Connections. Developing Leaders. #### CREDA’s Developing Leaders program If you work in commercial real estate and you are 35 or under, CREDA Pittsburgh’s Developing Leaders program is built to move your career forward, faster. It puts you in the room with the people shaping the region’s skyline and gives you a real role in the chapter while you are still early in your career. This is where the next generation of Pittsburgh CRE meets the people already leading it. As a Developing Leader, you get: - - Direct access to the senior developers, owners, and investors driving the region, and a real chance to learn how they got there. - A mentorship program that pairs you one on one with established industry leaders. - A peer network of professionals at the same stage, building their businesses right alongside you. - Discounted admission to CREDA events, project tours, and professional development all year long. - Leadership that actually counts, from committee work to helping shape the chapter’s events and programming. Any CREDA Pittsburgh member who is 35 or under is automatically part of the program, as long as we have your date of birth on file to confirm eligibility (proof of birth date is required). “Joining the Developing Leaders was easily the smartest thing I’ve done for my career over the past year. The people involved are some of the most encouraging, fun, and driven professionals in the city. And if that doesn’t say big things for the future of Pittsburgh’s #CRE industry, then I don’t know what does.” Alyssa Falarski [Join Developing Leaders Now](https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KJ7STBM) #### 2026 Developing Leaders Leadership **Developing Leader Chair**: Jake Heaton **Vice Chair**: Lauren Clarke **Events Leads**: Grant Huchel, Joe Sheerer **Membership**: Nick Zbur, Nick Scalo **Mentorship**: Kelley Harrington, Trent McPherson **Marketing**: Maya Green, Alison Arnone *Note: To activate your membership, email* [*i*](mailto:membership@naiop.org)nfo@credapgh.com *a clear copy of your government issued identification (driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport) to provide proof of your age.* The continued success of any association or organization is attracting new blood to the group that can inject fresh ideas and unbridled energy. This program is an ideal way to bring young professionals to CREDA Pittsburgh, so we can continue the traditions, activities and important work of our chapter to the benefit of the entire real estate industry.” For more information, contact the 2026 Developing Leaders Chair Jake Heaton or Chapter Administrator Erica Loftus at [Join Developing Leaders Now](https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KJ7STBM) [  ](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/51593669735_a273027549_c.webp "51593669735_a273027549_c") [  ](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/52037008048_78931530e9_c.webp "52037008048_78931530e9_c") [  ](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/52037481175_a88a6c8d52_c.webp "52037481175_a88a6c8d52_c") [  ](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/52037481410_168e218fae_c.webp "52037481410_168e218fae_c") [  ](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/52292424066_4eb67fdc1f_c.webp "52292424066_4eb67fdc1f_c") [  ](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/52407127125_262e210626_c.webp "52407127125_262e210626_c") --- ### [Membership](https://www.credapgh.com/membership/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # Membership #### Why should you join CREDA Pittsburgh? From investors, owners and developers to architects, brokers, engineers and other professionals, **CREDA PITTSBURGH IS COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE**. We have the people, knowledge and education to help you find connections, stay ahead of the curve, and make deals. You can view the types of membership and [sign up online](https://mynaiop.naiop.org/Join/JoinNAIOP). If you would like to receive more information contact **Erica Loftus** at . If you are under 35 years old and are an emerging leader, please check out our [Developing Leaders](https://www.credapgh.com/developing-leaders/) program. To learn more about membership, check out our CREDA Pittsburgh [membership brochure](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NAIOP_PittBrochure-2024-WEB.pdf). [Sign Up Online](https://my.credaglobal.org/join) [CREDA Pittsburgh Dues](https://www.credapgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Pgh-2026-Membership-Application-CREDA.pdf)  #### Exclusive Networking CREDA Pittsburgh’s programs, events and networking opportunities connect you to the people and opportunities you need to help propel your business forward. #### Strategic Relationships Your membership empowers you to develop relationships to collaborate and succeed. #### Powerful Advocacy CREDA Pittsburgh promotes effective public policy through our grassroots network. We work to advance legislative initiatives that will strengthen and promote the growth of the industry. [  ### credapgh Formerly NAIOP Pittsburgh always advocating for #CREpgh - As of July 1, 2026: Commercial Real Estate Association (CREDA) ](https://www.instagram.com/credapgh/ "@credapgh") [ As we close out June 2026, we write the final chap  ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaOKT76J2Sp/) [ As we close out June 2026 we are posting photos fr  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DaNFnfIlLc4/) [ Our 2026 Awards celebration was one for the record  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DZJLtCjnTDs/) [ Spending a few days in Harrisburg advocating on be  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DZFIcO2JRSL/) [ Just a few teaser photos for your scrolling pleasu  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DZApWHnFA7T/) [ Thank you to the Allegheny Conference on Community  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DY5cpiaE0Zr/) [ Thank you, ECS, for being the Transportation Spons  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DY5aXavoCkI/) [ We are thankful to all the organizations that have  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DY5O5XmE5zH/) [ We are blessed with all the organizations that hav  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DY5G40uk0Xu/) [ Thank you, Tucker Arensberg Attorneys, for being t  ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DY4-51RIGAn/) Load More [ Follow on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/credapgh/) #### Chapter Meeting Recordings - February 19, 2026 Recording: [Industrial Update](https://youtu.be/yQV6r8USabY) - January 7, 2026 Recording: [Annual Joint CREDA Pittsburgh – BOMA Pittsburgh *State of the Economy*](https://youtu.be/YRmPRIjFiSc) - November 18, 2025 Recording: [Legislative Update on Harrisburg’s Evolving Energy Policies](https://youtu.be/OYsKOX9CoEE) - October 16, 2025 Recording: [Turning Policy into Profit – Navigating the New Era of Tax Credits & Opportunity Zones.](https://youtu.be/B-Gh77YTO3E?si=cjUK0nkjmxj-PPT-) - September 19, 2024 Recording: Data Centers in the Region & Their Future - June 20, 2024 Recording: [State & National Policy Discussion](https://youtu.be/Tf90q0RXVZQ) - April 18, 2024 Recording: [Regional Economic Development Update](https://youtu.be/5i5oicY5JXY) - September 21, 2023 Recording: [Capital Markets Update](https://youtu.be/wjpv-XR89ic) - April 21, 2022 Recording: [Pittsburgh Population & Demographics Trends for CRE](https://youtu.be/W8MxUIX182s) - March 17, 2022 Recording: [Lower Hill Project Update](https://youtu.be/VzbEIExNDc4) - February 17, 2022 Recording: [Construction Update](https://naioppittsburgh-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/p/bmendoza/EeYpdbGoDj9IutEfL1U_Wx0BENyk_fXlmkujLklxoKSlCw?e=5qBhr3) - May 27, 2021: [Transportation Update with Katharine Kelleman](https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/B2dauQ4QuahF7l38J_SJ6auWBEMGGkSDLa-DR_oCm4MoNF4VQHGKF-SuAZu9rOzN.SU0-Oxbni88cwJGa?startTime=1622116867000) - April 15, 2021: [Construction Update Panel Discussion](https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/EKoBDCYWwuSaKar04bEzKdBkWiCyD4hxi89_D6ESvsOnFl5JZl9CZ99bzba5Mw2I.mre5Qj6EsnlsXkfT?startTime=1618488033000) - March 18, 2021: [Harrisburg Update: A Conversation with Senator Jay Costa, PA Senate Democratic Leader (D-District 43)](https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/R4TMC6sLeSUxxl8tFS3UTQmCJUexNx4s9EhSC1IMVHaKONvwH3Gi8QVB742zqL-G.q2EStBap_-Q3hrCc) - February 21, 2021: [C-PACE – A Conversation Feat. the Allegheny County Program Administrator (SEF)](https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/yIgMcv952YIpQH76_JgAV_DUiHnLVl3N0Un9hIHipAk7QetYLStYlPuHkjbFwq2c.tFYdNHd_mF4EkoVM) - January 21, 2021: [State of the Economy Update](https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/H8y2x9F_GB-Fp2do8jgAsMVpfZ3Y-J1PlPw0GHGDknqWzfY2OQuINAvHjvsqwCNq.wtcpP7iDGwd68tJr?startTime=1611233879000) - October 20, 2020: [Opportunities & Challenges in CRE Financing](https://youtu.be/Vk2a81hWPr0) - January 17, 2019: [State of the Economy Update](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/01-17-19-NAIOP-PDF.pdf) - February 21, 2019: [Katharine Kelleman, CEO, Port Authority](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/PAAC-Economic-Impact-Board-Presentation.pdf) - June 13, 2019 –[ Policy Briefing: An Inclusionary Zoning Discussion with Joe Cortright ](https://www.naioppittsburgh.com/s/Cortright_PittsburghNAIOP_June2019.pdf) [See More Recordings](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ3BvxAW0V24Lz8pms2ytcQ) --- ### [CREDA Pittsburgh PAC](https://www.credapgh.com/pac/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # CREDA Pittsburgh PAC ## The rules are being written. Be in the room. ## The rules are being written. Be in the room. #### CREDA Pittsburgh PAC is the only political action committee for the commercial real estate Industry in Pennsylvania. It represents the interest of commercial real estate professionals in all of Pennsylvania with an emphasis on the greater Pittsburgh Region. The primary purpose of the CREDA Pittsburgh PAC is to protect and advance the interests of the members of CREDA Pittsburgh by supporting qualified candidates for state and local office in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, regardless of party affiliation, who understand the organization’s principles and mission. CREDA Pittsburgh PAC allows you to support candidates that support the issues you care about without being a direct contributor to their campaign. Your PERSONAL funds are pooled with those of other industry professionals, and the PAC makes the contribution. The CREDA Pittsburgh PAC Board of Directors determines contributions to specific candidates or ballot initiatives. #### Become A Member of the CREDA Pittsburgh PAC A CREDA Pittsburgh Member who donates $500 or more within a calendar year automatically becomes a CREDA Pittsburgh PAC member and is eligible to be appointed to the CREDA Pittsburgh PAC Board. PAC members get exclusive access to round table discussions with elected officials and other events throughout the year. [Donate to the CREDA Pittsburgh PAC](https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KJ7STBM)  CREDA PITTSBURGH has an active and influential political action committee (PAC). Our goal is to endorse and support principal-centered candidates to represent business and property owner rights in Pennsylvania at all levels of government. Help us make a difference. #### The Legal Stuff Please take a moment to review these notes regarding contribution legalities. - - - Contributions to CREDA Pittsburgh PAC, must be personal funds. - Contributors can be members of CREDA. They can also be employees (including former/retired) of companies providing services or goods related to commercial real estate development, and their immediate family members. - Corporate contributions are prohibited by law. - Contributions are not deductible for purposes of federal income tax. - Contributors must be US Citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens. - We do not accept contributions based on any condition or agreement to support or oppose a specific candidate or ballot measure. - Contributors may not be reimbursed by any party for contributions made. - All contributions are reported via Campaign Finance Reports to the Pennsylvania Department of State as required by Law. ### CREDA Pittsburgh PAC Board **PAC Chair** – Ryan Schwotzer, CMI **PAC Vice Chair** – Jonathan Glance, LGA **PAC Secretary** – Brian Temple, Imperial Land Corporation **PAC Treasurer** – Tom Frank, CREDA Pittsburgh **Advocacy Consultant** – David Caliguiri, C&G Strategies **PAC Board Members** – Brandon Snyder (Merus), Nate Phillips (Chapman Properties), Alyssa Kunselman (Mascaro), Clayton Morris (Sampson Morris Group), Dave Heaton (Buncher), Jamie White (LLI Engineering) **For more information** or for questions regarding our CREDA Pittsburgh PAC, contact Tom Frank at tfrank@credapgh.com. [Alert the Committee](mailto:tfrank@credapgh.com) --- ### [Advocacy](https://www.credapgh.com/advocacy/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # Advocacy ## YOUR Membership Matters ## YOUR Membership Matters [Federal Level](#federal) [State Level](#state) [Local Level](#local) We believe that your CREDA Pittsburgh membership is an investment that pays dividends. Our goal is that our advocacy work will directly impact your bottom line by removing regulatory barriers, reducing project costs, and accelerating timelines. When we push for permitting reforms that save months of delay, or when we advocate for funding reforms or extensions, that is real money back in your pocket and your projects. We deliver results that make doing business in Western Pennsylvania more profitable and predictable. From defeating burdensome city regulations to reforming state programs to influencing federal infrastructure and tax policy, CREDA Pittsburgh is your voice at every level of government. Join us, and see your advocacy dollars work for you. [Local Level](#local) [State Level](#state) [Federal Level](#federal) #### Local Level In Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, CREDA Pittsburgh actively engages with elected officials and agencies to shape policies that support responsible development and encourage economic growth. ##### Inclusionary Zoning Victory: - - **Major Win:** In October 2025, Pittsburgh City Council voted 5-4 to approve Councilwoman Erika Strassburger’s amendments transforming Mayor Gainey’s mandatory inclusionary zoning proposal into a voluntary Affordable Housing Program. This represents a significant victory for market-driven housing policy. - **The Result:** This balanced approach encourages affordable housing creation without the punitive mandates that would have stifled housing production. CREDA Pittsburgh’s sustained advocacy, testimony, and collaboration with stakeholders were instrumental in achieving this outcome, and we applaud the Pittsburgh City Council for its tireless effort on the issue. ##### Permitting Streamlining Support: - - **Progress in Motion:** On his first full day in office (January 6, 2026), Mayor Corey O’Connor signed Executive Order 2026-01 directing city departments to “revamp” Pittsburgh’s permitting process within 60 days. This executive order acknowledges that the city’s permitting regimen is outdated, inefficient, and insufficient. - **CREDA’s Position:** We strongly support Mayor O’Connor’s commitment to accelerating permitting timelines and stand ready to assist in the review and reform process. Our position: - - Professional -certification for smaller, less intensive projects with annual audits, allowing for faster permits. - A singular housing zoning district for single-family homes to triplexes to streamline zoning efficiency. - Simple variance requests (height, setback, FAR) to be administrative exceptions, to allow for faster zoning approvals with fewer Zoning Board of Adjustments hearings, which are costly and time-prohibitive. - An overhaul of the RIV Bonus Point framework to a more attainable and realistic program.  #### Click here to see the Mayor's plan ##### Pittsburgh 2050 Comprehensive Plan: CREDA Pittsburgh is engaged with Pittsburgh’s first citywide comprehensive plan, the document that will shape zoning, land use, and development decisions through 2050.Executive Director, Tom Frank, sits on the steering committee and many CREDA members have been engaged in the process. Our focus is ensuring that the plan supports economic growth and gives developers the predictability they need to invest in the region. ##### Pittsburgh Land Bank: CREDA Pittsburgh is working with the Pittsburgh Land Bank to return vacant, blighted, and tax-delinquent properties to productive use. CREDA is actively engaging with the Land Bank to address lot consolidation and the redevelopment of larger parcels. Getting these parcels back on the market strengthens neighborhoods, grows the tax base, and opens new opportunities for development across the city. #### State Level At the state level, CREDA Pittsburgh works directly with Pennsylvania legislators and agencies to create a more competitive business environment for commercial real estate development. We are optimistic about the Governor’s budget proposal recently released.  #### NPDES Permitting Reform - - Competitive Timelines: Pennsylvania’s current NPDES permitting timelines significantly lag behind Ohio. Faster approvals are vital to our region’s competitiveness, and we are actively pursuing a revised framework and timelines to NPDES permitting. - Reduce Regulatory Burden: Remove burdensome new requirements, including excessive forms, pre-site characterization, multiple PCSM recordings, erosion potential analysis forms requiring easements, annual reports for general permits, and post-construction infiltration testing which exceed national Army Corps of Engineers standards and add significant time and cost. - Increase DEP Capacity: Invest in adequate DEP resources to enable timely project reviews and create legislative oversight committees including stakeholders to review proposed regulatory changes before implementation.  #### SPEED Program Enhancement: Support Third-Party Review: While we welcome Governor Shapiro’s SPEED Program to accelerate DEP permits, we are working to address implementation concerns that could limit participation by Western PA’s most experienced civil engineering firms. We are working with our members to receive feedback on the successes and shortcomings of the program and will continually inform our elected officials of our feedback. Other ideas on reform include: - - Reform of the “One Strike” Policy. - Address the District inconsistency across the State’s DEP offices. - Refine conflict-of-interest rules to encourage more participation while maintaining the program’s integrity. [](https://www.credapgh.com/office_multifamily_conversion_creda_pittsburgh/) #### [Energy Legislation: Microgrids & Energy Districts](https://www.credapgh.com/office_multifamily_conversion_creda_pittsburgh/) For the first time in our chapter’s history, CREDA Pittsburgh is actively working on state energy legislation to address Pennsylvania’s “last mile” transmission challenges and industrial site readiness. We seek to accomplish this by allowing microgrids to serve multiple end users and also through the creation of “Energy Districts.”  #### PA SITES Program Investment CREDA Pittsburgh advocates for renewal and expanded funding of the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites Program (PA SITES Program), a critical tool for preparing shovel-ready development sites that attract business investment and job creation throughout the Commonwealth.  #### Office to Multi-Family Conversions CREDA Pittsburgh supports converting Pittsburgh’s vacant office space into housing. With a 17.5 percent downtown office vacancy rate and 5.2 million square feet ready for conversion, we advocate for a statewide 20-year LERTA abatement, a higher state Historic Tax Credit cap, and a rehabilitation code track that makes these projects financially feasible. ##### Tracking Commercial Real Estate Legislation We are currently monitoring 10+ bills in the PA House and Senate that are directly related to Commercial Real Estate. We are a proactive advocacy force that is ready to support or oppose any legislation that positively or negatively impacts Commercial Real Estate Development. #### Federal Level CREDA Pittsburgh, through our partnership with CREDA National, advocates for federal policies that support commercial real estate development and economic growth.  #### Transportation & Infrastructure - - - Reauthorize & Fund: Pass a multiyear surface transportation reauthorization in early 2026 and, at minimum, maintain current federal funding to keep pace with rising material, labor, and land costs. - Streamline Permitting: Modernize regulatory review with clear timelines and adequate staffing to cut costs and speed up delivery.  #### Energy & Electrification Policy - - - Expand the Grid: Invest in grid modernization and an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy so new facilities can connect faster. - Reform Permitting: Shorten energy permitting timelines and improve multi-state coordination on major transmission projects, which can take seven times longer to build than generation.  #### Adaptive Reuse & Housing Affordability - - Incentivize Conversions: Pass the bipartisan Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410), creating a 20% tax credit for converting vacant commercial buildings to residential use. - - Address the Shortage: Repurpose older, high-vacancy Class B and C office space into housing to help meet the 4.3 million rental units needed by 2035. #### Our Commitment CREDA Pittsburgh is prepared to provide technical expertise, share member experiences with the current system, and work collaboratively with city departments to identify specific bottlenecks and implement practical solutions. We have been meeting with Mayor O’Connor’s team to offer our industry’s perspective on what reforms would have the greatest impact on accelerating responsible development. #### Get Involved CREDA Pittsburgh’s advocacy success depends on engaged members. Here’s how you can amplify our impact: Donate to our CREDA Pittsburgh PAC: Established in 2025, our PAC strengthens our advocacy efforts and enables direct engagement with elected officials. Share Your Story: Help us illustrate the real-world impact of policies by sharing how regulations affect your projects and costs. Stay Informed: Follow our advocacy updates and respond to calls for action when we need member voices on critical issues. Contact: Tom Frank, Executive Director --- ### [Skyline Academy](https://www.credapgh.com/skyline-academy/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # Skyline Academy  The CREDA Pittsburgh Skyline Academy will introduce students to career possibilities in commercial real estate (CRE), helping to build a pipeline of talent in Pittsburgh CRE. CREDA Pittsburgh presents a unique learning experience that will immerse 25 rising juniors and seniors in the world of CRE. Through the camp, students will**:** - - - Explore a potential career path. - Examine placemaking and the built environment. - Begin to grow their professional networks. - Build lasting relationships with fellow program participants.   ### Accelerating Change in Pittsburgh CRE Attracting diverse professionals to CRE enriches the talent pool with new voices and enables the industry to better represent the communities that CRE serves. By developing a camp focused on broadening students’ horizons to possible CRE careers, the CREDA Pittsburgh Skyline Academy endeavors to accelerate greater representation in CRE for all underrepresented people. Students who complete the program and decide to pursue careers in CRE will have a strong professional advantage, which can serve to build equity in hiring practices in Pittsburgh CRE firms. ### About the Program This exciting summer camp is a crash course in Commercial Real Estate over five days, taking place June 22 – June 27, 2026, at Carlow University. Utilizing games, activities, guest speakers and a bus tour to different properties, campers will learn how to finance, design, build and lease commercial real estate like the professionals do. The camp will culminate with a final presentation recapping what the students have learned throughout the week. Planning is underway for this exciting 4th year program and an in-person and overnight experience the whole week. ### Key Dates: **Application deadline:** April 15th, with placement announcements by April 30th. **Reservation fees due:** Monday, May 18th. **Student Arrival and Program Commencement:** Monday, June 22nd at 8 AM. **Program Conclusion:** Saturday, June 27th, following student presentations and lunch. #### The CREDA Pittsburgh Skyline Academy is a week‑long, immersive educational program designed to introduce students to commercial real estate through hands‑on learning, including classroom instruction, collaborative group projects, walking tours, site visits to active commercial properties, and off‑campus travel by bus. Students are expected to participate in independent learning activities, work collaboratively in teams, manage transitions between program components, and comply with instructions without the need for individualized or continuous one‑on‑one assistance. The program may include overnight accommodations and structured evening activities, requiring students to demonstrate appropriate independence, maturity, and self‑management throughout the program duration. [Apply Here](https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KJ7STBM) This program is a partnership amongst educational institutions, including Carlow University, CREDA Pittsburgh, and corporations invested in supporting the next generation of commercial real estate talent in Pittsburgh. Discover more about Carlow University at [carlow.edu](https://www.carlow.edu/). #### Questions? Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Message(Required)Please let us know what's on your mind. Have a question for us? Ask away. FOUNDING PARTNER  HOST PARTNER  PRESENTING PARTNER  --- ### [Events](https://www.credapgh.com/events/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** [](https://www.credapgh.com/events/quarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only/) ### [Quarterly Chapter-Wide Advocacy Call (Members Only)](https://www.credapgh.com/events/quarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only/) Reservation details tba. 11 Aug 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm - [ ](#) - - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.credapgh.com%2Fevents%2Fquarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only%2F "Share on Facebook") - [Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.credapgh.com%2Fevents%2Fquarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only%2F "Linkedin") - [Email](mailto:?subject=Quarterly%20Chapter-Wide%20Advocacy%20Call%20%28Members%20Only%29&body=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.credapgh.com%2Fevents%2Fquarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only%2F "Email") [View Detail](https://www.credapgh.com/events/quarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only/) --- ### [Media](https://www.credapgh.com/media/) **Published:** June 5, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** [](https://www.credapgh.com/effective-today-july-1-2026-naiop-pittsburgh-has-officially-become-creda-pittsburgh-commercial-real-estate-development-association/) ## [Effective today, July 1, 2026, NAIOP Pittsburgh has officially become CREDA Pittsburgh (Commercial Real Estate Development Association).](https://www.credapgh.com/effective-today-july-1-2026-naiop-pittsburgh-has-officially-become-creda-pittsburgh-commercial-real-estate-development-association/) Jul 1, 2026 While our name is changing, our mission remains the same—to connect industry leaders, advocate for responsible development, educate professionals, and strengthen Western Pennsylvania through commercial real estate. Commercial real estate plays a vital role in... [read more](https://www.credapgh.com/effective-today-july-1-2026-naiop-pittsburgh-has-officially-become-creda-pittsburgh-commercial-real-estate-development-association/) --- ### [Contact Us](https://www.credapgh.com/contact-us/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** # Contact Us ## Mailing Address PO BOX 100085 Pittsburgh, PA 15233 ## Contact Us [info@credapgh.com](mailto:info@naioppittsburgh.com) Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Message(Required)Please let us know what's on your mind. Have a question for us? Ask away. --- ### [Home Page 3](https://www.credapgh.com/home-page-3/) **Published:** May 6, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** ## Your Title Goes Here Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. 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You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings. - Your Title Goes Here 50% 50% --- ## Events ### [2026 DL Golf Outing](https://www.credapgh.com/events/2026-dl-golf-outing/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Event --- ### [November Chapter Meeting](https://www.credapgh.com/events/october-chapter-meeting-896/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Meeting --- ### [Quarterly Chapter-Wide Advocacy Call (Members Only)](https://www.credapgh.com/events/quarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only-2/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Meeting --- ### [October Chapter Meeting](https://www.credapgh.com/events/october-chapter-meeting/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Meeting --- ### [September Chapter Meeting](https://www.credapgh.com/events/september-chapter-meeting/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Meeting --- ### [Quarterly Chapter-Wide Advocacy Call (Members Only)](https://www.credapgh.com/events/quarterly-chapter-wide-advocacy-call-members-only/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Content:** Reservation details tba. **Categories:** Meeting --- ### [2026 Holiday Party (Members Only)](https://www.credapgh.com/events/2026-holiday-party-members-only/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Event --- ### [2026 Night At The Fights](https://www.credapgh.com/events/2026-night-at-the-fights/) **Published:** June 7, 2026 **Author:** studios **Categories:** Event --- ## Categories ### [Uncategorized](https://www.credapgh.com/category/uncategorized/) --- ### [Blog](https://www.credapgh.com/category/blog/) --- ### [Members in the News](https://www.credapgh.com/category/members-in-the-news/) --- ### [YouTube](https://www.credapgh.com/category/youtube/) --- ## Tags ### [CREpgh](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/crepgh/) --- ### [development](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/development/) --- ### [affordablehousing](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/affordablehousing/) --- ### [dlpgh](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/dlpgh/) --- ### [pittsburgh](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/pittsburgh/) --- ### [Awards](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/awards/) --- ### [PittsburghEvents](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/pittsburghevents/) --- ### [PittsburghAwards](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/pittsburghawards/) --- ### [podcast](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/podcast/) --- ### [CRE](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/cre/) --- ### [Young Professionals](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/young-professionals/) --- ### [PittsburghPodcast](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/pittsburghpodcast/) --- ### [Mic Drop](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/mic-drop/) --- ### [fathers day](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/fathers-day/) --- ### [construction](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/construction/) --- ### [CEO](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/ceo/) --- ### [AlleghenyCo](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/alleghenyco/) --- ### [AlleghenyCounty](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/alleghenycounty/) --- ### [TaxAssessment](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/taxassessment/) --- ### [Immersion](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/immersion/) --- ### [Talent](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/talent/) --- ### [Diversity](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/diversity/) --- ### [Mentorship](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/mentorship/) --- ### [Mentorship Connect](https://www.credapgh.com/tag/mentorship-connect/) --- ## Categories ### [Meeting](https://www.credapgh.com/mec-category/meeting/) --- ### [Event](https://www.credapgh.com/mec-category/event/) ---