Several Western Pennsylvania communities are starting 2026 with new tax hikes, affecting both homeowners and businesses.

Allegheny County property owners will see taxes climb an average of 3%, as leaders cite the need for infrastructure repairs and public service funding.

Westmoreland County approved a 2.5% increase in local income taxes to fund education and community growth projects.

This comes amid rapid transformation in the region, with developments like the historic Bittner Building in Pittsburgh’s Strip District set to become 39 new condominiums.

Jefferson Township’s Liberty Pointe project is also moving forward to deliver more housing options.

The southwestern industrial market ended 2024 with a record-low 4.7% vacancy rate, showing intense demand.

Governor Shapiro’s $2.5 million PA SITES investment in Westmoreland aims to attract jobs and businesses, fueling ongoing debates about balancing growth with affordability.

A lucky Westmoreland County resident is a millionaire after buying a winning Pennsylvania Lottery ticket at the Walmart on Mills Drive in North Huntingdon Township.

The ticket was a $20 Jackpot Scratch-Off worth a staggering $1 million.

For its role in the big win, the local Walmart will receive a $5,000 bonus.

This incredible news adds to a recent lucky streak in the area.

Just two months ago, another player in nearby South Huntingdon Township won an amazing $1.2 million on a Match 6 Lotto ticket.

The latest winner has one year from the purchase date to claim their prize.

Since 1972, the Pennsylvania Lottery has used its proceeds to fund essential programs for older residents, including property tax rebates and transportation services.

The Shapiro Administration is investing nearly $4 million through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority to boost business growth in Westmoreland County.

In Penn Township, Weaver Investments Inc. secured a 10-year, $2.1 million loan to build two advanced, energy-efficient buildings in Bushy Run Industrial Park.

Tenants Sunbelt Rentals and East Penn Manufacturing have already signed on, reflecting the strong demand for modern industrial space.

Meanwhile, Yerty Auto Service, Inc. in Altoona received a $1.85 million loan to expand operations, creating 10 new jobs and preserving 22 more in Blair County.

Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has helped secure over $35.9 billion in private investment, fueling job growth statewide.

These initiatives highlight a strong commitment to economic progress across Pennsylvania.

Local entrepreneurs in Westmoreland County often face a frustrating truth.

Expensive digital ads are showing your business to people states away who will never walk through your door.

Meanwhile, a family living just four blocks away—actively looking for what you offer—might not know you exist.

This is where hyper-local advertising changes the game.

Instead of reaching anonymous users across the internet, you connect with actual households in Greensburg, Latrobe, and surrounding towns.

These are the neighbors who become regulars and tell their friends about your business.

Your next loyal customer isn't browsing from another zip code; they are right here in our community.

It's time to stop wasting ad dollars on the wrong audience and start investing in the neighbors ready to become your best customers.

Small business owners have long struggled with the high cost and uncertain results of traditional advertising like radio, TV, and newspapers.

These methods are not only expensive but also make it hard to measure true impact.

As competition intensifies, it's vital for local businesses to see clear returns on every marketing dollar.

Community newsletters deliver a modern solution, connecting directly with an audience that’s chosen to stay informed about local happenings.

This targeted, permission-based approach ensures messages reach people who genuinely care about supporting neighborhood businesses.

With detailed analytics available, business owners can easily track engagement and understand what truly resonates.

Sharing updates alongside trusted school news or city events enhances a company’s credibility and reaches customers when they’re most attentive.

By investing in local newsletters, small businesses can foster loyalty, drive foot traffic, and build lasting relationships right where it matters most.

Westmoreland County has secured $13 million in state casino revenue, signaling a major boost for local development.

Funds from the Local Share Account (LSA) are earmarked for vital community projects and infrastructure upgrades across the region.

In 2024, 53 municipalities and organizations will benefit, as $19.3 million is distributed to support 89 projects.

Grant awards vary from $6,967 to $850,000, addressing needs from emergency services equipment to road, bridge, and park improvements.

Live! Casino’s opening in 2020 has transformed the local economy, generating over $800 million and contributing nearly $60 million in taxes last year.

Hempfield Township received an additional $2.1 million for ongoing public service efforts and infrastructure upgrades.

Local leaders continue to highlight the positive impact on economic growth and community enhancement throughout Westmoreland County.

Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, is receiving a major boost with millions directed toward crucial infrastructure upgrades from state and federal sources.

Over $105 million from the American Rescue Plan Act is strengthening small businesses, local governments, fire departments, and nonprofits to speed up COVID-19 recovery and stimulate the economy.

The New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park is set for transformation, as a $3 million RACP grant enables demolition and redevelopment to attract new technology and manufacturing jobs.

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority is tackling environmental concerns, approving nearly $9 million for new wastewater and sewer systems, including a project along Route 31 in Donegal Township.

Communities like Bolivar Borough and the City of Latrobe are seeing benefits through gaming-funded LSA grants, supporting storm sewer repairs and upgraded police technology for improved safety and emergency response.

This strategic funding highlights a strong commitment to resilience and prosperity throughout the county.

Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, charms with a lively dining scene that fuses small-town warmth and standout flavor.

Diners in Greensburg flock to J. Corks for creative American cuisine and a polished-yet-relaxed vibe, while Vallozzi’s Greensburg impresses with upscale Italian fare and steakhouse favorites, making it perfect for celebrations.

For a more casual outing, The Boulevard serves up expertly grilled salmon, fresh salads, and a welcoming bar-and-grill environment.

Beyond Greensburg, Bella Terra Vineyards and Dino’s Sports Lounge receive high praise for their friendly service and quality menus.

New to Murrysville, Pizzaiolo Primo is set to open, promising brick oven pizzas, pastas, and a selection of drinks.

The annual Greensburg Restaurant Week further celebrates culinary variety, bringing together local breweries, fine dining, and sports bars.

Westmoreland County offers memorable dining for every taste and occasion.

Greensburg, Pennsylvania maintains a moderate reputation for safety, with crime rates generally falling below national averages.

In 2024, local authorities recorded 39 violent crimes, yielding a rate of 268.89 per 100,000 residents. Incidents included 35 aggravated assaults, 3 robberies, and 1 rape, but no murders or manslaughters were reported.

Property crime saw 93 cases—translating to a rate of 641.2 per 100,000—including 80 larceny-thefts, 7 burglaries, and 6 motor vehicle thefts.

Encouragingly, property crime has declined by about 40% within a single year.

Compared to neighboring Jeannette, Greensburg fares better, with a lower crime index of 88.7.

Residents highlight clean streets, good healthcare access, and strong amenities, occasionally expressing concerns about traffic and rare disruptions.

Overall, Greensburg offers appealing living conditions, though staying informed and vigilant remains important for everyone’s well-being.

A vibrant, local coffee culture is thriving across Westmoreland County, offering residents a welcome alternative to national chains.

This movement is all about unique experiences and building community.

In Greensburg, the scene is booming with spots like Cutie’s Coffee Company, known for its creative coffee flights, and the Cattfeinated Cat Cafe, where patrons can enjoy a latte with adoptable cats.

The White Rabbit Café & Patisserie adds a touch of elegance with its locally sourced pastries.

Nearby in Latrobe, the Coffee Bean Café has been a beloved staple for years, roasting its own Fair Trade beans in-house.

The town of Irwin also boasts unique options, from the artisan coffee at The Bean Bar to Burning Oaks Coffee Company, a popular veteran-owned roaster.

These local businesses provide more than just caffeine; they are becoming essential community hubs.

Hitachi Energy is making a major investment of over $70 million to expand operations in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

The initiative will generate over 100 new local jobs and significantly boost the production of sustainable electrical grid infrastructure.

The company will advance its Mount Pleasant facility into a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub, increasing output of eco-efficient products such as the EconiQ® SF6-free high-voltage switchgear and breakers.

A new site in Hunker, just seven miles away, will house a research and development lab and a customer experience center, driving innovation and collaboration.

Support from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development includes grants to assist with both expansion and workforce training.

Set for completion by 2026, this expansion strengthens the region’s reputation in the energy sector and supports global sustainability goals.

An era of stable property taxes in Hempfield Township has come to an end.

For the first time since 1990, homeowners are facing a significant property tax increase after supervisors voted to double the rate from 3 to 6 mills for the 2026 budget.

The decision establishes a new, dedicated 3-mill fire tax to provide a stable funding source for the township's nearly $2 million public safety department.

This new revenue will support critical fire service needs like vehicles, station upgrades, and paid staff.

For the average homeowner in Westmoreland County, this change means their annual tax bill will jump from roughly $80 to $160.

However, there is relief planned for older residents.

A proposed rebate program for eligible seniors 65 and older is expected to pass, which would completely offset the increase and keep their tax rate unchanged.

A surge of economic energy is sweeping through Westmoreland County, bringing new businesses and expanded services to the area in early 2026.

This welcome trend signals growing confidence in our local market.

In North Huntingdon, Bluebird Counseling of Western PA is expanding to a larger location to meet the rising demand for mental health services, with a ribbon-cutting set for January 21.

The bustling Route 30 corridor in Unity Township is also seeing significant activity.

A new 7 Brew Coffee is preparing to open, offering a convenient drive-thru option for commuters.

Nearby in the Latrobe 30 Plaza, discount retailer Five Below is moving into the former Rite Aid space.

Additionally, industrial cornerstone Kennametal Inc. is reaffirming its local commitment with a special showcase in Latrobe on January 13.

These developments point to a period of vibrant economic growth for our community.

Food is once again filling the warehouses of local food banks after a disruptive pause in state funding, but a new challenge has emerged.

Demand for assistance is still climbing.

Leaders at the Westmoreland Food Bank report a seven percent increase in pantry sign-ups compared to last year.

They believe the spike is driven by lingering anxiety among residents who fear that vital support systems could vanish again.

During the recent crisis, the community responded heroically after a grant from the Delmont Walmart sparked a massive fundraising effort.

Local businesses and residents collectively raised over a million dollars to replenish depleted stocks.

While the food supply is now stable, CEO Jennifer Miller says the most immediate need is for volunteers to help distribute food at local pantries.

The mission remains to ensure no one in Westmoreland County goes hungry.

Pennsylvania’s waterways are confronting new dangers as fracking waste combines with historic pollution, threatening both drinking water and recreation.

Near Belle Vernon, a tributary flowing by the Westmoreland Sanitary Landfill shows visible signs of contamination, including unusual foam and discolored water. Environmental scientist Yvonne Sorovacu and watershed advocate Hannah Hohman attribute these changes to oil and gas waste containing toxic and radioactive substances like radium, uranium, and arsenic.

Across Pennsylvania, at least 22 landfills accept such waste, often with scant oversight. Nearly 8.8 million tons of solid oil and gas waste were reported since 2017, though the real total may be higher. Elevated radium has already been found downstream from multiple sites.

Many landfills, including Westmoreland, sit atop old coal mines, compounding risks with overlapping pollutants. State action remains limited despite a grand jury’s call for reform, leaving locals and advocates pushing for stricter protections for precious water resources.

In Harrisburg, the newly passed Pennsylvania budget provides a much-needed financial boost for child care and direct home care workers, a move celebrated as a hard-fought victory.

For early childhood educators, a new $25 million program for recruitment and retention offers a moment of relief for providers in places like Westmoreland County.

This is a crucial first step to combat high turnover and low wages in the industry.

However, the situation is more complex for direct caregivers assisting seniors and people with disabilities.

A $21 million allocation for pay increases comes with a major catch: it only applies to a small fraction of workers paid through a specific state waiver.

This means an estimated 94% of direct caregivers in Pennsylvania will see no benefit.

Advocates warn that without broader, recurring investment, the severe workforce shortages will continue, leaving vulnerable residents without essential support.

A troubling new report confirms the number of uninsured children in Pennsylvania has surged to its highest point in a decade.

More than 153,000 children across the commonwealth are now without health coverage.

The impact is hitting our local communities hard, with counties like Greene and Indiana seeing uninsured rates climb above the state average.

Even in Allegheny County, where rates are lower, public health officials are sounding the alarm.

They warn that a lack of insurance leads to delayed care, which puts a greater strain on the entire public health system.

Families are being squeezed by rising costs, shifting government policies, and the expiration of critical federal supports.

The situation could get worse before it gets better.

Upcoming changes to Medicaid threaten to push even more Pennsylvanians off their health plans, a crisis that affects the long-term stability of our communities.

On December 9, 1965, a dazzling fireball blazed through the evening sky from Detroit to Pittsburgh, stopping residents in their tracks.

In Kecksburg, Pennsylvania, startled locals heard a mysterious thud in the woods, sparking widespread curiosity and speculation.

Authorities searched the area extensively, but no crash debris was ever found, fueling rumors of an unidentified flying object rather than the official explanation of a meteor.

Over the decades, this enigma evolved into Kecksburg’s famed UFO Festival, now a major summer tradition drawing thousands each July.

Festivalgoers enjoy parades, craft vendors, bed races, and new attractions like expanded parking and Shriners entertaining kids in 2024.

Festival president Ronnie Struble highlights rising attendance and the event’s key role in supporting the Kecksburg Volunteer Fire Department.

The festival’s iconic acorn-shaped UFO replica remains a symbol of community spirit, keeping Kecksburg’s cosmic legend alive for generations.

Chipotle Mexican Grill is bringing its new 'Habanero' restaurant design to Irwin in Westmoreland County.

The location is planned for 9174 Route 30, on the site of a former Denny’s, just half a mile from the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s Irwin exit.

Irwin’s Planning Commission has unanimously endorsed Chipotle’s land development plan, created alongside local engineering firm Bohler.

The project awaits a final vote by the Irwin Borough Council in January, pending fulfillment of PennDOT and Westmoreland Conservation District stormwater requirements.

If given the go-ahead, the restaurant could open in 2026, featuring Chipotle’s striking new interior concept, with updated materials, textures, and artwork inspired by the brand’s history.

The Habanero model adds indoor seating and special pick-up lines for online orders, aiming to boost convenience.

Chipotle’s move underscores its push to expand innovative store formats throughout Pennsylvania.

Construction is underway on the Church View Senior Residences in Mt. Pleasant Township, a major step forward for senior housing in the region.

This $5.6 million project will offer 20 new units for seniors aged 62 and above, helping meet a critical need.

Situated beside St. Florian Parish on land donated by the Diocese of Greensburg, the effort was championed by the late state Rep. Mike Reese, whose family and local officials recently gathered to honor his vision at a groundbreaking ceremony.

The Westmoreland County Housing Authority is leading the fully funded development, boosted by grants and local investments totaling over $4 million, including support from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and county programs.

The residences are set to open by fall 2026, allowing local seniors to stay connected to their community and church roots.

Dayton Freight has purchased 31.5 acres in South Huntingdon Township’s I-70 Industrial Park, a move that signals continued growth in Westmoreland County.

The company will build a 36,000-square-foot cross-dock shipping facility, a project estimated to bring around 50 new jobs for drivers, forklift operators, and office support.

Based in Dayton, Ohio, the freight carrier has over 6,000 employees and already has sites in McKees Rocks and Bedford.

This upcoming location features easy access to major highways and is situated near other large employers, boosting regional logistics capabilities.

Construction is slated for spring 2026, with completion in early 2027.

The project joins other significant investments in the county, including major expansions by Hitachi Energy and Premier Automation, highlighting Westmoreland’s robust economic momentum.

Townships across the U.S. are taking a more active role in regulating solar farm development, carefully weighing renewable energy goals against local priorities.

In Covington Township, Pennsylvania, new zoning laws now confine large solar facilities to select districts, aiming to protect residential neighborhoods and preserve the township’s distinctive character.

Polk Township has similarly adjusted its zoning, fully banning commercial solar farms in moderate-density zones following community calls to safeguard farmland and rural views.

Meanwhile in Ohio, Columbiana County commissioners have blocked large solar and wind projects in several townships, responding to concerns about property values and local quality of life.

These decisions highlight a clear trend: local governments are increasingly shaping renewable energy development to better reflect community values and preserve local landscapes.

A surge of entrepreneurial energy is sweeping across Westmoreland County, with six new businesses opening their doors.

This wave signals a powerful vote of confidence in the region's future.

In Jeannette, the Humidor Cigars & Lounge has opened, representing a local owner's investment in his hometown.

Meanwhile, Unity welcomes two new spots: Popsy's Golf Center and a new location for the popular Coffee Tree Roasters.

The creative scene in Greensburg is also growing with the addition of the sleek Lounge Barbershop and the soon-to-open Tough Love Tattoo.

Rounding out the list is Good Life Wine & Spirits in Hempfield, offering a curated selection for shoppers.

Each new opening is a testament to the community's potential and a new reason to shop local.

Westmoreland County is poised to emerge as a center for autonomous vehicle innovation with the launch of PennSTART, a cutting-edge research and training facility dedicated to self-driving technology and emergency response.

The initiative features a $30 million, two-mile test track at the Westmoreland Innovation Center in Mount Pleasant, providing both highway-speed and off-road environments for diverse simulations.

This facility, led by the Regional Industrial Development Corporation, is already attracting top industry names such as Aurora and Stack, bringing in new testing, development, and maintenance jobs.

Don Smith, president of RIDC, noted PennSTART will allow companies to conduct most of their deployment testing on-site, streamlining operations and boosting the local economy.

First responders will also benefit, gaining hands-on experience with autonomous and electric vehicle emergencies in a realistic, controlled setting.

With year-round, all-condition testing capabilities, PennSTART is set to establish Westmoreland as a leader in mobility technology and preparedness.

David Fedor, 61, from Westmoreland County, was among 44 winners chosen by the Pennsylvania Lottery’s Game of Thrones Second-Chance Drawing to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Napa Valley, California, in November 2025.

The immersive adventure, themed around the iconic series, featured “The Seven Kingdoms Experience,” with exclusive events set in a stunning, castle-inspired venue.

Fedor and his wife, married for 34 years, hadn’t traveled extensively in years, making the trip especially meaningful.

Assigned to House Targaryen, Fedor’s group participated in a jousting tournament, ultimately claiming the $1 million prize—a victory that earned Fedor $76,786.

The all-expenses-paid journey covered airfare, luxury accommodations, and curated tours, making participants feel like royalty.

This extraordinary win highlights the excitement and substantial rewards that local lottery opportunities can offer to dreamers ready to take a chance.

West Penn Power is advancing major electric service upgrades in Westmoreland County, driving a $368 million initiative to boost grid reliability and community support.

Crews are reinforcing power lines along 7th Street Road and Drey Street in Arnold, installing over a mile of stronger, large-diameter wire.

This upgrade increases capacity and helps safeguard against storms.

The project also includes the installation of new transformers, lightning protection, crossarms, and more than 50 replacement utility poles.

Vegetation is being cleared along routes to reduce tree-related outages, while eight advanced remote switches are being added to restore service rapidly and improve fault detection.

A new tie line will allow for smoother transfers when repairs are needed.

Expected to finish this month, the work supports West Penn Power’s LTIIP III plan, which benefits 725,000 customers in central and southwestern Pennsylvania.

Former NBA star Chris Herren shared his harrowing story of addiction with students from across Westmoreland County this week.

Speaking to students from Burrell, Kiski Area, Greensburg Salem, and Norwin, he detailed how substance abuse destroyed his promising basketball career that included time with his hometown Boston Celtics.

Herren admitted he once dismissed anti-drug assemblies himself before his life was nearly ruined.

The impactful presentation was organized by the Westmoreland County District Attorney's Office.

District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli emphasized the focus on prevention, using drug forfeiture money to fund the educational event.

Now sober since 2008, Herren’s raw and honest account served as a powerful, cautionary tale for local youth about the critical choices that can shape a life.

Unity Township resident Mark Nobile was honored with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award by Representative Leslie Rossi on December 4.

This recognition celebrates Mark’s extraordinary dedication to keeping local roads clean—often before sunrise and no matter the season.

Driven by the motto “Bag A Week – Keep It Neat,” he voluntarily removes over five tons of litter every month, far exceeding expectations.

His early morning efforts have garnered admiration from neighbors, inspiring many in Unity Township to take pride in their surroundings.

Officials and community leaders praise Mark’s unwavering commitment, even as he faces the dangers of roadside clean-up.

His actions highlight how one person’s steady resolve can transform a community and motivate others to take part in environmental stewardship.

Mark’s ongoing example continues to energize local pride and beautification efforts throughout Pennsylvania.

Westmoreland County is undergoing a wave of digital innovation, with major investments advancing its economy, public safety, and education sectors.

Powerex Inc. is leading the charge, committing over $14 million to upgrade its Youngwood facility.

This expansion is set to double assembly capacity, create at least 25 new manufacturing jobs, and support 215 current workers, giving the local job market a strong boost.

On the safety front, the District Attorney’s Office is launching a digital forensic lab, backed by a $500,000 grant.

This cutting-edge facility will speed up digital evidence analysis and save the county significant costs each year.

Education is evolving too, as county schools debut a Digital Literacy program for the 2024-2025 year, preparing students for an increasingly tech-driven world.

Broadband expansion, in partnership with Verizon, will soon bring high-speed internet to over 400 rural locations—bridging the digital divide and connecting more residents than ever before.

Westmoreland County is set for major improvements as FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company, operating as West Penn Power, announces a sweeping modernization of the local power grid.

Beginning in August 2025, the upgrades will bolster service reliability for approximately 5,000 customers in New Kensington, Arnold, and Lower Burrell.

The project includes reinforcing key power lines on 7th Street Road and near Drey Street, with crews installing over a mile of stronger, weather-resistant wire.

More than 50 utility poles, nearly 100 crossarms, new transformers, fuses, and lightning-protection devices are also being added to safeguard the system.

Tree trimming along the lines aims to minimize outages, while the installation of remote-controlled reclosing switches allows automatic fault isolation and faster restoration.

A new tie line will transfer customers to backup lines during repairs, ensuring smoother maintenance.

These upgrades promise stronger, more responsive service, reflecting a major investment in the local community’s future.