Memorial Day Weekend in Pittsburgh: Weather, Steel Industry, and Community Events

Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Saturday, May 24, 2025.

It is Memorial Day weekend here in Pittsburgh, and we are expecting plenty of activity and remembrance throughout the city. First, let’s talk about the weather. After some wild storms earlier this week, including tornado touchdowns in Butler County and high winds that brought down poles on Perry Highway, we’re catching a break this morning. But keep your umbrellas handy. More heavy rain and storms are expected later today, which could affect outdoor Memorial Day plans and events around town, especially as city crews are still busy with storm-related cleanups.

On the breaking news front, President Trump announced that U.S. Steel’s headquarters will stay right here in Pittsburgh as part of a new partnership with Nippon Steel. Local leaders in the Mon Valley have welcomed the decision, which brings some stability to our historic steel industry, though everyone is watching closely to see how this international merger will affect local jobs and investment in the coming months.

In city government, city council is debating how to keep Pittsburgh affordable as we see home prices creeping up, even though we are still ranked as the third most affordable city for homebuyers in the country. There is growing concern about how fast we’re accelerating toward less affordable housing, and city leaders say they are keeping a close eye on inclusionary zoning and development policies. Small business support and city services are also hot topics, with some council members pushing for more transparency in budget planning and support for local entrepreneurs.

On the jobs front, the labor market remains mixed. Some local organizations are struggling to adjust after recent AmeriCorps funding cuts. Groups that work with students and community programs, like those at Pittsburgh Westinghouse 6-12, are especially feeling the pinch. It’s a developing story that could affect dozens of jobs and services for youth and families.

Turning to real estate, despite national trends, Pittsburgh is still considered a bargain for home buyers. But as our economy changes, affordability is a concern, and residents are urged to keep an eye on shifting market conditions.

For those heading out this weekend, several businesses on the South Side have reopened after last month’s storm damage, bringing some relief to both owners and patrons. Meanwhile, crews in Bethel Park are cleaning up after a water main break Thursday night, which caused some disruption in the neighborhood.

Looking at community events, the 911th Airlift Wing will conduct Memorial Day flyovers throughout the region, a tradition that is sure to draw crowds and honor our veterans. Don’t forget, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds return to action today, taking on Rhode Island FC as they search for their first league win since March—a good chance to support our local team.

In school news, the McKeesport Area School District is under investigation over missing funds, and in Butler County, a school bus crash sent two students and a driver to the hospital. Thankfully, all are recovering, but it’s a reminder to drive safely this holiday weekend.

Crime-wise, things have been mostly quiet, but police are investigating an incident in Ross Township after falling power lines sent one person to the hospital and damaged cars on Perry Highway. No life-threatening injuries have been reported, but please be careful out there as crews handle repairs.

To end on a high note, let’s congratulate the students and teachers at Perry High for grilling mayoral candidates on youth issues this week. It’s great to see our young people so engaged in civic life.

This has been Pittsburgh Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.