🏡 Money for first-time homebuyers

Lawsuit Targets PA Property Assessments

A local advocacy group is suing the state in Commonwealth Court over its “haphazard, grossly non-uniform, and arbitrary property assessment system.” Right now, each county decides how often to reassess property values, and a few are using data that's over 50 years old. The plaintiffs want PA to create a statewide standard. [90.5 WESA]

• Are we due for a countywide reassessment? We talked to County Executive Sara Innamorato about it last year. [🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

T.J. Watt Nabs Impressive Contract

Watt signed a three-year, $123 million extension with the Steelers, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. [ESPN]

• Steelers training camp kicks off July 24. Here’s what to know if you want to take part in this half-century-long tradition in Latrobe. [🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

No More Height Limits for Native Plants

Gardeners growing native or pollinator plants are now exempt from the city’s ban on plants more than 10 inches high on residential properties. Pittsburghers can register their gardens so that inspectors don’t mistake them for weeds. [TribLive]

• Native gardens improve biodiversity. Here are some more ways to take care of Pittsburgh’s green spaces. [📝 Hey Pittsburgh]

New Fines for Downtown Bus Lanes

Drivers using or parked in the new red bus lanes will receive a $25 violation. With fees, expect a full cost of around $200. The lanes are part of a special route for the Bus Rapid Transit project between Oakland and Downtown. [KDKA]