ALT Reaches 75 Percent of $1.4 Million Goal to Buy Former Pittsburgh Cut Flower Property

As snow created a white blanket over the dilapidated former Pittsburgh Cut Flower property, Allegheny Land Trust celebrated raising 75 percent of the $1.4 million purchase price for the 180-acre parcel it plans to turn into green space.

Two people who have been key to fundraising efforts—Secretary Richard Allan of Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and John Rohe, vice president of Colcom Foundation—unveiled a sign Thursday showing the red on a fundraising thermometer at the 75 percent mark.

Allegheny Land Trust has a contract to buy the 180-acre property at 4136 Bakerstown Road/Red Belt on the northwestern part of Richland Township. The land is owned by Florida-based Legacy Landings LLC.

The Allegheny Land Trust's vision is to preserve 150 acres as permanent green space. The trust also envisions a solar farm or other economic development on the property.

In his remarks, Allan noted that Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources awarded a $509,500 grant to the Allegheny Land Trust for the protection of the 150 acres of undeveloped land. 

“This particular project is a perfect example of tying the environment to the economy, with the transformation of a former commercial property into protected open space, with the most disturbed areas being dedicated to new economic development,” Allan said.  “We are always pleased when our investment leverages local and private dollars to accomplish these goals.”

(See video above for Allan's comments.)

John Rohe, vice president of the Colcom Foundation, announced a $300,000 investment for the property acquisition. The foundation previously supported the project with a $50,000 grant to be used for "hand money" needed when ALT went under contract with the property owner.

(See video above for Rohe's comments.)

“The conservation values of this property include biodiversity, water management, natural scenery, and restoration,” said Carol Zagrocki, program director for the Colcom Foundation.

“The land has captured a charitable and conservation ethic in the local community. It is a privilege to support Allegheny Land Trust in advancing the conservation ideals of Colcom's late founder, Cordelia S. May."

Rep. Mike Turzai (R-Bradford Woods) praised the Allegheny Land Trust for the work it has done and said he has looking into securing more funds through the Gaming Economic Development Fund.

He encouraged ALT to submit an application for those funds.

(See video above for Turzai's comments.)

Thursday's ceremony began with Richland Township Manager Dean Bastianini welcoming everyone to the ceremony. Richland Board of Supervisors Chairman Herb Dankmyer was also present.

For 90 years, the Pittsburgh Cut Flower Co. operated the flower-growing business at the Richland Township location, producing millions of roses. It sold the property decades ago.

Pittsburgh Cut Flower still is in business, with locations in Pittsburgh's Strip Distrct and Erie.

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