2025 was a challenging year for us at ELDI, marked by the loss of our dear colleague Skip Schwab in January. Skip was much more than a colleague. He was a bright spirit, known for his humor and warmth, and a deeply respected expert in finance, funding, and investing. From his impactful work at the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh and Local Initiatives Support Corporation to his 18 years of dedicated service at ELDI, Skip’s contributions have left a lasting imprint on Pittsburgh and on all of us who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Even in the midst of that loss, we stayed grounded in our mission: to help build a thriving, mixed-income East Liberty where long-time residents and new neighbors alike can put down roots. Throughout the year, we shared updates here on the blog—highlighting neighborhood milestones, community partnerships, and the progress made together.
Below, we’re reflecting on some of the key moments that defined our work in 2025.
Story link: Richard Witherspoon is closing the racial wealth gap one credit union customer at a time
Story link: The life and legacy of ELDI Deputy Director William “Skip” Schwab
Story link: A realtor’s perspective of East Liberty: a Q&A with Sarah Madia of RE/MAX Select Realty
Story link: The hidden cost of affordable homeownership: what it takes to build and scale affordability in Pittsburgh
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East Liberty’s dining scene is heating up — discover the latest restaurants
Inside the new cocktail lounge coming to the former Ace Hotel lobby
A new kind of community hub: Hound Haus opens in East Liberty
Story link: Renewing Mayflower Street: An update on our progress
Story link: Introducing Main + Elm Development Company, a new partner in developing inclusive, sustainable neighborhoods
Story link: A Vision for East Liberty’s downtown: CMU students imagine the next 20 years
Story link: From Renewal to Revival: the transformation in full swing around Broad Street Plaza
Story link: Rural Street Renewal: Expanding affordable and attainable homeownership with Main + Elm
Story link: Reverend Doctor Patrice Fowler-Searcy: A Legacy of Faith in Action
