🌳 Want to adopt a vacant lot?

Pgh Relaunches Social Worker Dispatch Program

The initiative sends social workers to respond to mental health-related emergencies, sometimes pairing them with law enforcement and other times leading crisis de-escalation on their own. Officials hope to nearly triple the number of clinicians in the program and eventually cover the entire city. [WESA]

City Council Expands Adopt-A-Lot Program

New legislation is making it easier for residents to transform city-owned vacant lots into community spaces, build trails and plant trees, and participate in more urban agricultural activities. As part of the expansion, the Adopt-A-Lot Program will support lot uses beyond gardening, such as public art, commercial vending, and special events. [City of Pittsburgh / City Cast Pittsburgh]

PPS Rethinks Its Purchasing Policies

The district could start requiring a competitive bidding process when it contracts for professional services. The proposed change follows recommendations from City Controller Rachael Heisler, who says PPS is missing opportunities to save money. [WESA]

Rocky Bleier Scores Whiskey Partnership

The former Steelers running back — a Steel Curtain-era player and U.S. Army veteran — is partnering with Iron City Distilling to create the first line of rye from Bleier Family Whiskey. Bottles will be available for purchase starting July 1. [TribLive]

• Learn about Western PA’s liquor legacy on these distillery tours. [City Cast Pittsburgh]

We’re back with recommendations from City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors 📣 This is a regular spot in the newsletter where members get to shine a light on their favorite local businesses, organizations, and events.

• ☕ 🎶 Fred D. wants to shout out Needle & Bean on Castle Shannon Boulevard in Mt Lebanon. He says it’s a "super hip and chill hybrid record shop coffee shop. New records, good coffee, great service... you'd think they were working for tips, but they don't accept tips!”

Want to share your own shoutout?