Whole Foods Market is proceeding with its expansion plans at Penn Plaza in East Liberty, Pittsburgh, relocating to a new 50,000 square-foot retail space. This decision, however, has reignited controversy and protests surrounding the redevelopment project.
The return of Whole Foods, along with Amazon, to the former site of the Penn Plaza apartment complex has drawn criticism from community groups like the Penn Plaza Support & Action Coalition. The demolition of the affordable housing complex to make way for retail and luxury apartments led to the displacement of hundreds of residents. Protesters argue that this move contributes to a pattern of pushing lower-income residents out of Pittsburgh.
Randall Taylor, of the Penn Plaza Support & Action Coalition, called the decision “immoral” and “corrupt,” urging the public to remember the ongoing boycott of the Penn Plaza site. Protesters view the site as “holy ground” due to the displacement and loss of affordable housing.
Tracy Baton, a protester, emphasized the need for Pittsburgh to remain a city for everyone, not just the wealthy. The displacement caused by the Penn Plaza redevelopment highlights the ongoing affordable housing crisis in the city.
Former Penn Plaza residents are demanding that both Amazon and Whole Foods withdraw from the project or provide compensation for the financial hardships they faced due to forced relocation. Taylor pointed out that the land was originally granted to LG Realty with the stipulation of providing affordable housing, a promise that was ultimately broken.
The redevelopment project, slated to begin construction this summer, continues to be a source of tension and debate within the Pittsburgh community. The return of Whole Foods to Penn Plaza serves as a flashpoint for larger issues of displacement, affordability, and equitable development in the city.
