Pitt to buy Forbes Ave. building from county for $1.9M

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Allegheny County is selling its former Health Department Forbes Medical Building in Oakland to the University of Pittsburgh for $1.9 million.

County Executive Rich Fitzgerald has submitted legislation to county council seeking authorization to sell the structure at 3441 Forbes Ave.

The legislation states that Pitt, which is buying the real estate through an entity known as 3441 F. Street LLC, intends to redevelop it.

In a statement, Joe Miksch, Pitt’s director of media relations, said the “proposed purchase of 3441 Forbes Ave. represents a tangible step in creating partnerships that will bring shape to a new innovation district, a place where great ideas can find pathways to reality and contribute to the economic growth of the community.

“This goal is shared by the University of Pittsburgh and many other partners working toward Pittsburgh’s future as a global city of innovation.”

He said Pitt would share more details once the sale is finalized.

The building currently houses the health department’s sexually transmitted diseases clinic.

Amie Downs, county spokeswoman, said the clinic has leased new space on Wylie Avenue in the Hill District, but has not yet moved into it. About 30 employees will be moving early next year.

That’s the only staff left in the building, she said.