The Hilltop Alliance is bringing back our Hilltop Summit in 2024 on March 19th at Alla Famiglia on E Warrington Ave in the Allentown neighborhood. This annual event brings us together with the eleven community-based organizations we are comprised of to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year. This week, we are highlighting the developmental work of the Hilltop Economic Development Corporation!
The Hilltop Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to serving Mt. Oliver Borough and the City of Pittsburgh’s Knoxville neighborhood. The mission is ”to serve as the community resource in strengthening and developing the Brownsville Road Business District and neighborhoods.” The HEDC works with Mt. Oliver Borough and Hilltop Alliance on real estate development projects and business district revitalization along Brownsville Road.
The HEDC was formed in 2007 by Mt. Oliver Borough in order to strengthen community development initiatives. The all-volunteer corporation utilizes grants and experts from their board as well as organizations like Hilltop Alliance and the Brashear Association to develop programming and business support grants.
Some events the HEDC funds throughout the year include the Summer Music Series, the Hilltop Harvest Festival in partnership with the Hilltop Urban Farm, the Small Business Saturday Cookie Tour in partnership with Allentown CDC, and the Mt. Oliver Light Up Night. These events help increase foot traffic on Brownsville Road, promote the local businesses, and provide family-friendly fun for residents. HEDC also funds the Passport to Allentown and Mt. Oliver Borough Program alongside Hilltop Alliance, a winter shopping program aimed at promoting exploration in the two neighborhoods.
An innovative organization, the HEDC is always seeking new ways to meet their developmental goals and organize impactful events. In 2023, HEDC hosted the first annual Cookie Bake Off at the Light Up Night event. This contest invited everyone to enter their homemade cookies for judging by two Talk Pittsburgh Chefs, Alekka Sweeny and Janet Loughran.
The winner of the Cookie Bake Off was presented with the opportunity to donate $500 to the organization of his choice, which was the Boys and Girls Club of Western PA!
President Ruthann Omer has overseen the Board of Directors since the HEDC’s founding in 2007 and works closely with Borough Manager and fellow board member, Rick Hopkinson, to fulfill the Mt. Oliver Strategic Plan developed in 2020. The HEDC has been paramount to the economic development of both Mt. Oliver Borough and the Knoxville business district, directly contributing to increased business occupancy on Brownsville Road and successful yearly events.
To learn more about the HEDC and its role in Mt. Oliver Borough, visit the Mt. Oliver Borough website or follow Mt. Oliver Borough on Facebook and instagram.