Glassport, PA, Unveils New Gateway Signage, A Symbol of Community Revitalization
- Maura Kay and Maya Haptas
- 19 hours ago
- 2 min read
Since 2019, Fourth Economy and evolveEA have provided support to Allegheny County Economic Development for the Allegheny Together program.
This initiative empowers communities to make well-planned, well-designed, and geographically focused investments while honoring their unique history and character. Communities accepted into the Allegheny Together program embark on a facilitated strategic planning process. This involves an in-depth data analysis, robust community engagement, and an urban design review to identify economic development, placemaking, and public space priorities. These priorities then guide technical assistance to help bring their visions to life.
Glassport's Community Revitalization Journey with Allegheny Together
In 2023, Glassport Borough was accepted into the Allegheny Together program. Fourth Economy and evolveEA developed a comprehensive Strategic Action Plan for the borough, focusing on key areas related to Market, Place, and Identity. This planning process included a thorough market analysis, an assessment of Glassport’s physical assets, and extensive community engagement, which gathered valuable insights from residents. Over 190 residents responded to a community survey and identified what they would love to see in the Glassport business district, with beautification and increased visibility ranking highly.
Following the Strategic Action Plan's completion, Glassport Borough received technical assistance to begin implementation. A significant step was their successful application to the PA Council on the Arts Creative Communities program, which helped them secure additional funding and partner with the renowned Pittsburgh Glass Center to develop a mosaic glass sign for the gateway to the Monongahela Avenue commercial district.
Glassport’s mosaic installation provides a lesson in history and collaboration. Establishing the mosaic’s imagery, led by local artists, allowed for a reflection on the history and future of the borough. The mosaic also enhanced conversations with other community stakeholders by connecting them to other work around the borough - such as tree plantings, community garden development, and other site improvements.
A Vibrant Welcome to Glassport
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, Glassport Borough celebrated a major milestone: the unveiling of the vibrant new gateway signage at the entrance to the Monongahela Avenue business district. The stunning mosaic glass creation, brought to life by talented Pittsburgh artist Sarah Cohen and inspired by a design from local Glassport artist Christopher Galiya, now proudly welcomes residents and visitors.
The unveiling event was attended by key stakeholders, including Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, County Representative Bob Macey, Representative John Inglis, Allegheny County Economic Development Director Lauren Connelly, Glassport Borough President Anthony Colecchi, and members of Glassport Borough Council.
This beautiful new signage symbolizes the ongoing community revitalization of Glassport's commercial district. New businesses like Nothin’ Basic, LLC bakery (which provided delicious treats for the event) and Glad’s Deli are now joining beloved Glassport favorites such as Glassport Lanes and Max n Odis, contributing to a renewed vibrancy in the area.
Interested in how strategic action planning can create tangible results in your commercial district? Check out our Markets We Serve page to learn more about Fourth Economy’s offerings.
