"NFL Draft, Election Reform, and a Rare Robin: Pittsburgh Local Pulse for May 13"

Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 13. We start today with breaking news that puts Pittsburgh in the national spotlight—the city is officially on the clock to host the 2026 NFL Draft. Excitement is building as we join the select group of cities chosen for this massive event, which will bring in fans, boost local businesses, and shine a light on our vibrant sports community. While we look forward to big events, we’re also preparing for more regular rain today, with scattered showers expected into the afternoon and highs in the upper 60s. If you have outdoor plans, especially near the rivers or city parks, be ready for wet conditions.

Turning to city hall, the Pittsburgh City Council just extended a declaration of disaster emergency through the end of May, following the severe storms that hit the area on April 29. This move unlocks more resources to help with cleanup and repairs, especially in neighborhoods hardest hit by flooding and wind damage. City Council is also holding a public hearing soon on proposed updates to overlay zoning rules, which could have real impacts for homeowners and business owners interested in renovation or new development downtown.

In Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania House is poised to vote today on sweeping election reform—this bill would impact everything from ballot drop boxes to early in-person voting and tougher penalties for election interference. If it passes, we’ll see some changes heading into the next election cycle.

The local job market has shown resilience. Pittsburgh’s unemployment rate remains steady, and new developments are on the horizon. Sheetz, recently recognized as one of America’s most innovative companies, is reportedly expanding in Allegheny County, which may create dozens of new jobs in both service and logistics.

Real estate activity is still lively. Spring listings are up, and while prices have climbed about four percent year over year, the market remains competitive, especially for homes in neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill, Lawrenceville, and Mount Washington.

Looking ahead, several community events are worth checking out. This Friday, the Three Rivers Arts Festival continues with live music at Point State Park, and movie nights are scheduled for Schenley Plaza—bring your lawn chairs and blankets. The fate of the annual Three Rivers Regatta is still up in the air as organizers search for a new sponsor.

On the school front, Perry High students recently hosted a mayoral candidates’ forum, asking tough questions about school funding and public safety. Local leaders praised the students for their engagement, recognizing the critical role young voices play in shaping our city’s future.

In crime news, Pittsburgh police made a quick arrest this week after a string of sports trading card thefts. Meanwhile, a crosswalk sting in Bellevue led to a handful of tickets issued to drivers failing to yield to pedestrians, part of ongoing safety efforts citywide.

And for a bit of feel-good news, local birdwatchers spotted a rare robin with unique white markings at Frick Park, drawing neighbors together for a glimpse of this unusual sight.

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