Your Daily Guide

4.5 Hours In The ER?

In some Pittsburgh-area hospitals, new data shows the average emergency room visit — from arrival through discharge — stretched from 3.5 to well over 4.5 hours. The U.S average is about two hours and 42 minutes. New insurance eligibility rules may drive patients to delay care until conditions become emergencies, which could further worsen ER wait times. [Axios]

• Nobody likes a hospital visit, but one (fictional) ER team has captured our hearts and minds. “The Pitt” dropped its season 3 trailer, but we have to wait ‘til January for a new shift with Dr. Robby and co. In the meantime, catch up on what we think the show gets right (and wrong) about the Burgh. [YouTube / City Cast Pittsburgh]

One Year To Fix $1.4B Pension Deficit

The Allegheny County pension fund has been operating at a deficit for more than 20 years, and is projected to become insolvent by 2043. District Attorney Stephen Zappala sued the retirement board, seeking to force the county to contribute more. But a judge just gave county and state officials 12 months to find a solution to keep the fund sound. [TribLive]

Pittsburgh Buys 13 Fire Trucks

Earlier this year, Highmark Health committed $20 million over five years to help fund public safety vehicles. Now, the city is using some of that money to order new fire trucks. It's not yet clear when they'll be delivered. [🔒 Post-Gazette]

• Big nonprofits like Highmark Health and UPMC have been making targeted donations to the city since Mayor Corey O'Connor took office. Most recently, UPMC donated 229 medical trauma kits to Pittsburgh police. But would we be better off if they paid property taxes? [PittsburghPA.gov / City Cast Pittsburgh]

Steelers Go Back to School

The Steelers are expanding partnerships at 130 schools in Allegheny County with “NFeLementary,” a program that provides Steelers-themed lesson plans. Middle schools will receive flag football kits to introduce kids to the sport, which is making its Olympics debut in 2028. Talk about starting them young. [WESA]

We’re back with a recommendation from a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor 📣 This is a regular spot in the newsletter where members get to shine a light on their favorite local businesses, organizations, and events.

• 🏋️‍♀️ Meaghan M. wants to shout out StrongerNow in Squirrel Hill. “It's a super supportive women-focused gym that offers classes and personal training. The owner Mindy will set up a meeting before your first class to make sure she understands your needs. For example, when I went back to working out postpartum she gave me alternatives to some exercises.”

Want to share your own shoutout?

Thanks to our new members Josh A., Cynthia K., Michael W., Oliver M., and Aaron S. Welcome to the Neighborhood!