Hello,
Long time pittsburgher, graduating pitt student with a few professional friends in and around pittsburgh.
In regard to the statistics about pittsburgh surviving the recession. It is true, the good economy is due to healthcare, education and research, banking, and construction projects. Our commercial real estate market is also doing well. This is one of the best cities to be in during these hard times it seems.
However, as leaders we must know that we could take a plunge at any time and the recession is still boiling very hot.
Our major university has already seen a major salary freeze set in place, top pittsburgh firms have laid off workers across the board, and PNC has had talks about a major layoff, a major one indeed.
In addition, foreclosures are on the rise.
And yes, there are major construction projects employing lots of blue collar workers but what happens when they end and investments dry up? There is no guarantee the nation will be out of the recession by the end of year. That is a extremely big promise by Mr. Obama.
Not to mention residents, as usual, are extremely disgruntled about new projects. Face the facts ma and pa, your time is over, if we are going to attract more young professionals and more young leaders to Pittsburgh we need to modernize. The t line is finally becoming a real subway system and is an excellent first step. Amen folks!
Say a prayer diplaced pittsburghers that we don't end up like the rest of the country!