🧛 A new spot for ‘gloomy weirdos’

🚔💸 City Council on Scirotto, Gainey & Broken Trust

Councilors questioned city and public safety officials Tuesday about whether taxpayers got fleeced by a) a mayor who made an unauthorized handshake deal to allow our city’s outgoing police chief to return to collegiate refereeing, or b) a police chief who may have never planned to work for the Pittsburgh bureau long term. Neither Mayor Ed Gainey nor Chief Larry Scirotto, who officially retires this week, were present at the meeting.

• The city will pay an estimated $1.5 million to Scirotto in pension funds over the next several years, officials said. Pensions are calculated by years of service and rank.
• “We’re not mad, we’re disappointed.” Speakers mostly praised Scirotto’s short tenure, but many said their trust in the Gainey administration has been harmed. Gainey is already running for reelection.
• What’s next? District 4’s Anthony Coghill said he would not approve funding for another national search. [📰 Hey Pittsburgh]

🧛 A New Pad Celebrates Allentown’s Alt Scene

The Weeping Glass oddities shop in Allentown launched The Weary Traveler, an Airbnb rental with a “gloomy weirdo” aesthetic. Located above the shop, the space features themed rooms, vintage decor, and a seance lounge. [City Paper]

• Which begs the question: Why is Allentown so goth? [📰 Hey Pittsburgh]

🥵 Pitt’s ‘Cardiac Hill’ Is Getting a Chill Overhaul

The University of Pittsburgh is shelling out $14.5 million to transform “Cardiac Hill” into a scenic and social (and hopefully less sweaty) space. The Panther Overlook project will create more pedestrian-friendly paths between the school’s upper and lower campuses and is expected to be completed in early 2026. [TribLIVE]