Penn Hills, Pennsylvania

Error creating thumbnail:

Penn Hills Senior High School building Pittsburgh PA 2022-10-22 09-33-48 1

Penn Hills, Pennsylvania is a municipality located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. As a Home Rule Municipality in the state of Pennsylvania, Penn Hills operates under its own charter with a form of government consisting of a mayor and a municipal council. It is the second-largest municipality in Allegheny County, following the city of Pittsburgh.

History

The area now known as Penn Hills was originally inhabited by Native Americans before being settled by Europeans in the 18th century. It was initially part of Pitt Township, established in 1788, and later became part of Wilkins Township before being incorporated as Penn Township in 1850. The name was changed to Penn Hills in 1958 when it adopted its Home Rule Charter.

Geography

Penn Hills is located in the eastern part of Allegheny County. It is bordered by several communities, including Plum, Verona, and Oakmont to the east, the city of Pittsburgh to the west, and Monroeville to the south. The municipality covers a diverse landscape that includes residential areas, commercial districts, and undeveloped land.

Demographics

As of the most recent census, Penn Hills has a diverse population with a mix of racial and ethnic backgrounds. The area has seen various demographic shifts over the years, reflecting broader trends in the region.

Government

The government of Penn Hills operates under a Home Rule Charter, which grants the municipality flexibility in governance. The local government is comprised of a mayor, who is elected at large, and a municipal council, whose members are elected from various wards within the municipality. This structure allows for localized decision-making and governance.

Economy

Penn Hills' economy is diverse, with a mix of retail, services, and light manufacturing. The area has several business districts that serve the local community and the surrounding regions. Economic development initiatives have focused on revitalizing commercial areas and attracting new businesses to the municipality.

Education

The Penn Hills School District serves the educational needs of the community, offering a range of programs from elementary to high school. The district is known for its commitment to academic excellence and provides various extracurricular activities to support student development.

Transportation

Penn Hills is well-connected by several major roadways, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike and U.S. Route 22. Public transportation services are provided by the Port Authority of Allegheny County, offering bus routes that connect Penn Hills to Pittsburgh and other neighboring communities.

Culture and Recreation

Penn Hills offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The municipality maintains parks, recreational facilities, and community centers that host events, sports, and other activities throughout the year.

Notable People

Several notable individuals have hailed from Penn Hills, contributing to the fields of sports, entertainment, and public service. These individuals have brought recognition to the community through their achievements and contributions.