SOUTH FAYETTE
On the Cover
Photo by Daniel Thompson.
Photo by Andrea Iglar.
Manager's Message
JOHN M. BARRETT
As we move full steam ahead into 2025, I am filled with pride and optimism for South Fayette.
The past year was marked by many achievements, including growth in our business community, the splash pad opening at Fairview Park, continued investment in our roads and the first year operating from our new municipal center.
These successes are a testament to the hard work, collaboration and shared vision of everyone who calls South Fayette home.
This issue of South Fayette Connect draws attention to the significant number of building permits we issued last year, which will result in additional commercial development, new places to live and more value added to the township (p. 18).
We also highlight new places to eat and lounge (p. 12), recognize the contributions of our sponsor-advertisers (p. 14) and feature the chambers of commerce that support our businesses (p. 16).
The year ahead promises to be another exciting chapter for the township. We have ambitious plans in the works, including continued expansion of Fairview Park with new ball fields and trail connections (p. 11), plus a Public Works substation at the Mayview Road park entrance.
Our township continues to grow and evolve, and with that comes the chance to strengthen our connections, improve our services and build on the progress we’ve made together.
Thank you for staying engaged, sharing your ideas and taking part in all that South Fayette has to offer.
We wish you a happy, healthy and fulfilling year ahead.
Mae's Bistro & Pizzeria
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chuck Lazzini, President
Tim Postufka, Vice President
Mark Hondru
Leigh Ann Oravecz
Rebecca Sray
TOWNSHIP MANAGER
John M. Barrett
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Andrea Iglar
ART DIRECTOR
Andrea Iglar
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Andrea Iglar
Recreation & Library Ads
Ian McNeill
Paula Willis
Kristen Bagwell
CONTRIBUTORS
Shelley Phoennik
Abbey Scheerer
Daniel Thompson
ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE
South Fayette Connect is a free magazine published and distributed quarterly by South Fayette Township for the benefit of the public. The magazine is a nonprofit source of information aimed at connecting people with local government and fostering a strong sense of community identity and pride.
If your delivery is missed, please inform your postal carrier. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the editor. © Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.
ADVERTISING
South Fayette Connect offers advertisements in exchange for sponsorship of certain community events and programs. Contact the magazine editor or visit SouthFayettePA.com/ads
PRINTING
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CONNECT WITH US SouthFayettePA.com/magazine magazine@sftwp.com; 412-221-8700, ext. 231 South Fayette Township, Allegheny County PA
South Fayette SHORTS
Police recognized for traffic safety efforts
For the sixth year, the South Fayette Township Police Department has earned a AAA Community Traffic Safety Award, which recognizes efforts to increase road safety. Police Chief John Phoennik, right, accepted the 2024 Platinum Award from AAA East Central President Terri Petrick in December.
Summer job applications sought
South Fayette Township Parks and Recreation is accepting applications for Summer Playground Camp counselors and a park attendant. Candidates must be age 16 or older. High school and college students are encouraged to apply: southfayettepa.com/jobs
Banner Community honor renewed for eighth year
South Fayette Township has been named a 2025 Allegheny County Banner Community. The Allegheny League of Municipalities program recognized 85 municipalities and agencies for a commitment to sustainable practices including professional development, intergovernmental cooperation, sound fiscal management and proactive, engaging communications.
PennDOT to add lights and lanes on Washington Pike
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) District 11 plans to add traffic signals and turn lanes on Washington Pike, at the intersections of Alpine Road and Boyce Road, in South Fayette. Construction tentatively is set to start in 2027. Find details and a public comment form at pa.gov/agencies/penndot.
Land trust conserves 160 acres
Township meeting recordings posted on YouTube
The monthly meetings of the South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners now are recorded and posted on YouTube. To view on demand, visit the township's channel @southfayettepa and navigate to the playlist "Board of Commissioners Meetings."
Relay for Life coming in May
The annual South Fayette/Bridgeville Relay for Life 5K to benefit the American Cancer Society is set for May 17 at 2 p.m. in the South Fayette School District stadium, 3680 Old Oakdale Road. Adults and youth may participate. Find details and register at runsignup.com/sfb5k.
Allegheny Land Trust has conserved 160 acres of green space along the Panhandle Trail corridor in South Fayette Township. The nonprofit raised $75,000 in community donations, plus secured grants and corporate sponsorships, to preserve woodlands bordering parts of Marshall Road, Scotch Hill Road and Robinson Run Road. The nonprofit South Fayette Conservation Group contributed $10,000 in matching funds. The $1.2 million acquisition is the second part of the Panhandle Greenway Conservation Project, which also includes 90 acres in Collier. Details: alleghenylandtrust.org/ panhandlegreenway.
Student donates items to homeless shelter
Jenna Foltz, 14, of South Fayette collected and donated more than 1,000 items to the Light of Life Rescue Mission in Pittsburgh this winter.
Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the South Fayette High School freshman gathered items from her family, friends, Firwood Drive neighbors and Bethany Presbyterian Church community. She delivered donations to the mission, which serves adults and children experiencing homelessness, poverty or addiction.
Items included 89 boxes of feminine hygiene products, 533 pairs of socks and
565 pairs of underwear.
“Those are the least donated but the most needed,” Jenna said.
She also provided blankets, clothing, hats and gloves, washcloths, toothpaste, soap and other personal care items.
Jenna undertook the service project as part of a school leadership class: “It felt really good just to be able to give back, especially in the winter season, and just know that I’m helping people in need."
—Andrea Iglar
▼ HELPFUL CUB SCOUTS
Cub Scout Pack 843 of South Fayette Township collected items in November to fill backpacks for the Foster Love Project. The Pittsburgh-based nonprofit distributes the bags of goods to children who are entering foster care or experiencing other distressing situations.
Pictured: Fifth graders Aghanya S., left, Akbar A., Oliviya S., Caden W. and Hansi H. of the Arrow of Light den assemble bags in the South Fayette Intermediate School library Nov. 20.
Pack 843 includes children in kindergarten through fifth grade who attend South Fayette elementary and intermediate schools, along with adult leaders.
The group, associated with Scouting America (Scouts BSA, formerly Boy Scouts of America), enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, service projects, personal fitness and learning about the community.
For information about joining, visit pack843.org.
Aself-taught mechanic, Mike Cardillo began tinkering with engines as a kid on the family farm, where he developed a strong work ethic. He has been a mechanic with South Fayette Township Public Works for 25 years. "I like the challenge of keeping the equipment running," he says.
Hometown: Lifelong S. Fayette resident
Family: Wife, Esther; adult children Maria & Anthony; grandkids Albert & Angelo
Pets: German shepherds Chief & Sky
Education: Attended Sturgeon, Morgan and South Fayette elementary schools; graduated from South Fayette High School; completed 12 years of CCD Catholic education at St. Patrick Church
Hobbies & Activities: Listening to music, making wine, building hardwood furniture
First Paid Job: Repairing lawnmowers
Favorite Music: Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash
Favorite Movie: "O Brother, Where Art Thou?"
Favorite Food: Spaghetti
Bucket List: Attend Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Tennessee
Best Qualities of South Fayette: "We have a first-class police department; four fire departments staffed by dedicated volunteers; a professional administration; and a capable public works department."
Fun Fact: Mike's paternal grandfather, Benjamin, came from Italy in 1914 and settled on a farm in South Fayette. He originally lived in a 1790 Pennsylvania Dutch log cabin—which today is dismantled and preserved in storage.
— Andrea Iglar
What are the township's boards and commissions?
South Fayette Township has eight boards and commissions made up of elected officials and volunteer appointees. Here is summary of who they are and what they do.
The South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners is elected and, in turn, appoints volunteers to the other commissions, boards, councils and committees.
Board of Commissioners
The 5-member Board of Commissioners is elected by the citizens of South Fayette Township. Commissioners have 4-year terms and serve at-large, meaning they represent the entire community. This structure is guided by Pennsylvania’s First-Class Township Code. The commissioners establish policy, enact ordinances and resolutions, adopt budgets and set township taxation rates. The board normally holds a public meeting at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month.
Civil Service Commission
The Civil Service Commission is made up of appointees. The commission meets as needed to conduct business related to testing and selecting police officers.
Environmental Advisory Council
The Environmental Advisory Council consists of three volunteers, a township commissioner and a township staff member. Members serve 3-year staggered terms. The council researches environmental issues, meeting as needed.
Fire Services Advisory Committee
The Fire Services Advisory Committee makes recommendations about the future of fire service in the township's four fire departments: Fairview, Oak Ridge, South Fayette and Sturgeon. The committee is responsible for providing guidance on all facets of fire department needs.
Parks and Recreation Board
Seven members of the Parks and Recreation Board work with the township's Parks and Recreation Director to make recommendations about township parks and recreational amenities. The advisory board usually meets at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.
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Planning Commission
The Planning Commission is made up of five volunteers who review building projects and other issues related to planning and land use. Members review applications for minor and major subdivisions, conditional use applications and land development, and they make recommendations to the Board of Commissioners. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. the fourth Thursday of each month.
Standards Board
The Standards Board meets as needed to hear appeals related to the township's interpretation of building code issues.
Zoning Hearing Board
The Zoning Hearing Board, with three members and two alternates, is a quasijudicial body—meaning the board holds courtlike proceedings and makes determinations like a judge. The board is a separate entity from the township and is responsible for holding public hearings to review zoning applications and make decisions about whether to approve variances, appeals of zoning officer determinations, challenges to the validity of a zoning ordinance or map, and other issues. The board generally meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday.
Meetings
Public meetings are held at the South Fayette Township Municipal Center, 100 Township Drive, unless otherwise advertised.
Find meeting schedule updates at southfayettepa.com/calendar.
Review meeting agendas and minutes at southfayettepa.com/agendacenter.
Learn more about boards at commissions at southfayettepa.com/boards. When openings are available on appointed boards, residents can apply at southfayettepa.com.
Abbey Scheerer is an administrative assistant with South Fayette Township.
▼ MEET THE COMMISSIONERS
The South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners includes five elected officials. Rebecca Sray has served since 2018, and the other four took office in January 2024. All commissioners agree the best quality of South Fayette is the people. In the words of Chuck Lazzini, the board president: "The best qualities of South Fayette are the people who live and work here to make our township better, along with pride in our community."
Chuck Lazzini, President
Residency: 48 years; Canongate
Job: Vice President, medical device industry
Family: Spouse Jody; children Dominic & Amelia
Pets: Dog Cooper & rabbit Mochi
Tim Postufka, Vice President
Residency: 23 years; Hickory Heights
Job: Account
Executive, health care
Mark Hondru
Residency: 22 years; Deerfield Ridge
Job: Insurance business
Family: Spouse
Cheryl; children Marlo, Luke & Paige
Pets: Dogs Rocco & Stitch
Activities: Exercise, read, watch SF lacrosse, serve as interior firefighter with SF Volunteer Fire Department
▼ What do you like about being a commissioner?
"Serving the residents and implementing innovative solutions for the continuous improvement of our community."
Leigh Ann Oravecz
Residency: 10 years; Deerfield Ridge
Job: Associate
Director Supply Chain, medical equipment
Family: Spouse Megg; children Spence, Camryn & Pierce
Pets: Dogs Archie & Mickey
Activities: Play golf with friends, spend time with family
Favorite Sports: Pittsburgh Steelers
"Working for a township that has done a lot for me."
Rebecca Sray
Residency: Lifelong; Old Oakdale Road
Job: Retired from SF Municipal Authority
Family: Late spouse
Family: Spouse John; children Lilly, Johnny & Michael
Pets: Dogs Benson & Beatrice
Activities: Boat, ski, hike
Interests: Country music; Steelers; John C. Maxwell leadership books
"Serving in the best interests of our residents. Making decisions to positively impact our township."
Tom (married 38 years); children Nicole & Melissa. In high school, Beckie was head cheerleader, and Tom was football
Activities: Cheer kids at sporting events, attend barre class, run bookkeeping business
Favorite Movie: The Goonies
captain. Tom served as a commissioner for 20 years.
Activities: Cheer four grandchildren at sporting events
"Supporting the community and ensuring we focus on what the community needs."
"Working on making our community the best it can be."
South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP
South Fayette VFW welcomes veterans and community
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 586 welcomes military service members and public to join the club
By Andrea Iglar
You can be a veteran to join the club, but you don’t need to be.
The South Fayette Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 586 welcomes war veterans, military service members and the public to join the club in the Cuddy neighborhood.
With membership support, the VFW can continue to offer resources to veterans, while also supporting the local community.
Life member Daryn Heaps said the public is welcome to stop and see the place.
“It is geared toward veterans, but the club itself is very much meant to serve the public,” he said.
Last year, the post placed American flags and wreaths at cemeteries, hosted a toy drive and visit with Santa Claus over the holidays, and awarded a Voice of Democracy scholarship to South Fayette High School freshman Della Endy.
In general, social and service clubs such as the VFW have been struggling with membership decline. Post leaders said that with a boost in awareness and support, the
group can continue to provide valuable services in South Fayette.
More membership revenue will help the post expand community service efforts, said quartermaster Ted Gielarowski, who is part of a new leadership team that took office last spring.
“As we continue to grow, I want to be more impactful in the community,” he said.
Eligible adults 21 and older can join the post as a combat veteran, a military service member or a social member. Dues range from $25 to $35 a year.
The club rents a banquet room for 60 to 75 people, and members enjoy a discount.
The club has a bar, kitchen, pool table and games, and the post hosts bingo, sports watch parties and other events. During Lent, Fish Fridays are open to the public. A Hall of Honor will recognize veterans with wall plaques.
“I feel like as soon as somebody comes in, they’ll love it down here,” bar manager Brandi Dewey said.
VFW leaders especially encourage younger members and newer veterans to join to keep the organization sustainable.
Post commander Sham Dhonde-Keeler said the club isn’t just for older men as some think; it’s family friendly, multigenerational and welcoming to women.
“It’s important to know we’re culturally diverse,” he added.
For veterans and their families, the club offers benefit claim assistance and other services—plus camaraderie among people with common experiences, no matter where or when they served.
“All veterans are welcome to be members of our club,” trustee Sam Tornabene said.
The VFW is a nonprofit veterans service organization of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard and reserve forces.
VFW Post 586: 637 Millers Run Road, South Fayette: 412-257-2499; Cuddy VFW Post 586 on Facebook; vfw.org.
◀ South Fayette Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 586 commander Sham Dhonde-Keeler, left, trustee Sam Tornabene, life member Daryn Heaps, bar manager Brandi Dewey and quartermaster Ted Gielarowski welcome the public to visit and join the club in the township's Cuddy neighborhood.
Photo by Andrea Iglar
Cpl Joseph R. Babish Army
Maj Scott Radinovic Army
SN Louis E. Sasfai Navy
Junior Achievement selects two South Fayette students for '18 Under Eighteen' honor
Two South Fayette High School seniors have been chosen as “18 Under Eighteen” honorees by Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania: Caroline Praveen and Nandana Menon.
The annual program, presented by the EQT Foundation, showcases the achievements of 18 youth, ages 12 to 18, from across the region.
Junior Achievement said the students “are breaking barriers and driving innovation while showcasing what it takes to be the next generation of leaders.”
Praveen, 17, is driven by her passion for medicine, advocacy and cultural understanding.
She founded the Fluency Forward
Foundation to support Pittsburgh’s refugee and immigrant children by teaching conversational English and aiding in cultural assimilation.
She has co-organized a charity event for rural education in India and has written a children’s book celebrating diversity.
In school, she serves as captain of the debate team and president of the South Fayette chapter of the Health Occupations Students of America.
She is a certified emergency medical technician and an accomplished biomedical researcher.
Menon, 18, works to empower neurodiverse communities and advocate for the autism community.
She leads the Autism Unity
Initiative, a nonprofit providing resources and support to people with autism and their caregivers.
She has developed a sensorymodified program at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium and co-created the Blue Envelope Program with state legislators to improve interactions between people with autism and law enforcement.
In school, she serves as president of the National Honor Society, school board student representative and leader of the Technology Student Association.
She is a certified EMT and has coauthored articles with the University of Pittsburgh and Magee-Womens Research Institute.
Junior Achievement of Western PA is a nonprofit based in South Fayette.
The 2025 honorees challenge traditional notions of influence by showcasing innovation and advocacy across diverse fields such as medicine, entrepreneurship and immigrant assistance, according to Junior Achievement.
“Influence isn’t just about being seen—it’s about creating a ripple effect that inspires action and change,” organization president Patrice Matamoros said.
“These honorees exemplify the power of purpose-driven leadership, showing that even at a young age, their voices and actions can shape the future in profound and meaningful ways.”
A diverse panel of community and business leaders reviewed student nominations from across Western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia to select the honorees.
Junior Achievement is featuring the students on billboards throughout the region; sending them to a leadership, networking and professional branding program; and recognizing them during a ceremony at the UPMC Club at Acrisure Stadium in February.
Junior Achievement of Western PA, 90 Emerson Lane, South Fayette: 412-208-4747; jawesternpa.org.
—Andrea Iglar
Caroline Praveen, 17
Nandana Menon, 18
South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP
▼ RETIREMENTS
South Fayette Township Public Works Department
▼ Louis Quattro, 27 years, and John J. Barrett, 13 years
South Fayette Township Police Department
▼ James Hubbard, 25 years, and Mike Blocher, 31 years
Board of the Municipal Authority of the Township of South Fayette
Ken Chambon, 14 years
Chambon, 73, of Lakemont Farms, volunteered on the board of directors for the sanitary sewer authority from April 2010 until retiring from the post in December. He had served as chairman and vice chairman.
A proclamation from the authority recognizes his efforts and states that he served "with the highest level of dedication and exemplified outstanding character and wisdom in carrying out his duties."
A lifelong resident and 1969 graduate of South Fayette High School, Chambon sat on the township Board of Commissioners from 1990 to 2002. He was the first township manager in 1978, serving for two years before leaving to pursue a career in public works.
He and his wife, Mary, have two adult children, Kenny and Kerry, and six grandkids.
—Photos
by Andrea Iglar
& text
$1.2 MILLION IN GRANTS SECURED FOR PARK
South Fayette Township has been awarded more than $1.23 million in grant funding toward developing more than five miles of trails and sidewalks in and around Fairview Park.
In the fall, the township was awarded a $430,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program.
An additional $802,060 secured from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission's Transportation Alternatives Set-
TRAILS
Aside Program means the trail project is about 90 percent covered by grant funding.
The connectivity project is in the design phase (pictured), with construction expected to start in late 2025 or in 2026.
Work will include multi-surface paths, ADA access, landscaping, signs and other improvements throughout the township's 191-acre park.
—Andrea Iglar
South Fayette Connect
South Fayette BUSINESS
Cigars lounge opens at Newbury
South Fayette superstore has humidor, kitchen and bar
By Andrea Iglar
One of the world's largest online cigar retailers has opened a store in South Fayette Township.
The Cigars International Superstore in Newbury Market includes a walk-in humidor with more than 1,300 cigar brands. Indoor and outdoor lounges offer food service and a full bar.
Visitors must be 21 or older to enter.
Manager Rocky Croyle said the store hosts live music, craft nights, sports game viewings and other events to interest a broad range of people.
“It’s not the traditional cigar shop,” he said. “We’re a different experience.”
While a cigar scent lingers in the building, Croyle said the ventilation system ensures the space is not smoky and
The $4.3 million store opened near Topgolf in November. It is the 13th brick-and-mortar location of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based Cigars International, owned by Scandinavian Tobacco Group. Other stores are in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Florida.
Adults 21 and older may purchase boxes of cigars or individual sticks to consume at home or in the lounge.
Croyle noted that Cuban cigar resale remains illegal in the U.S., but his store carries quality cigar and pipe tobacco from the U.S. and abroad—especially from tropical countries such as Honduras, Nicaragua and Dominican Republic.
Croyle, who holds an advanced
tobacco for cigars, the rarer and more expensive it becomes.
“We have cigars here that you can buy for under five dollars, and we have cigars here that are $650 apiece,” he said.
The bar features more than 100 whiskeys, plus other spirits, cocktails, wine and beer. The menu includes sandwiches, soups and snacks.
CI Superstore, 701 Holland Street, South
FEED THEM GOOD FOOD
Ava Mae’s offers fresh fare in South Fayette
By Andrea Iglar
Four friends from the Alpine Hunting and Fishing Club in South Fayette have opened Ava Mae’s Bistro & Pizzeria.
While both spots are known for tasty food, Ava Mae’s, in the Cuddy area, is a separate venture with distinctive offerings.
“It’s a unique place,” said Jack Albenze, co-owner of Ava Mae’s and caterer/manager of Alpine Club. “It’s a coming-together of minds and recipes and ideas.”
The other owners of Ava Mae’s are Steven Buchanan (Alpine Club president) and chefs Luke Collins (30 years of experience) and Matt Janota (a cook at Alpine). Ava Mae’s is named after Janota’s 18-month-old daughter.
Janota had aimed to open his own place since he was a kid: “I just like serving people and putting in hard work. It’s gratifying.”
The scratch kitchen prepares everything fresh, focusing on Italian fare such as Roman-style pizza with an airy, crispy dough that's prepared over the course of several days.
The menu features pizza, pasta, chicken dishes, salads and appetizers. A bar offers wines from Burgettstown-based Borelli Cellars, Pennsylvania beers and specialty cocktails.
Ava Mae’s opened in November in a renovated building at the corner of Battle Ridge and Millers Run roads. The restaurant seats about 50 people, with outdoor tables available in warm weather.
Buchanan said the central location and proximity to neighborhoods is convenient for dine-in and takeout. Customers can call ahead or place orders in person.
As the restaurant becomes more established and adds staff, the owners will expand the hours, menu and ordering options. Meanwhile, the focus is on feeding families good food, Collins said.
“The food and the people—those are the two things that I love about the restaurant business,” he said.
Ava Mae’s Bistro & Pizzeria, 4097 Battle Ridge Road, South Fayette: 412-226-8877; Facebook, Instagram; avamaepizza.com.
The owners of Ava Mae's are, from left, Steven Buchanan, Luke Collins, Jack Albenze and Matt Janota. (Photo by Andrea Iglar)
Platinum Sponsor ◆ Bunny Hop in the Park ◆
'Thanks for Giving' honors sponsors and advertisers
Free events in South Fayette possible thanks to business contributions
By Andrea Iglar
Last year, 66 organizations contributed a total of $68,074 to support community events in South Fayette—11 more businesses than the prior year.
Township officials recognized 2024 sponsors during the annual Thanks for Giving appreciation luncheon at Topgolf in South Fayette in November.
Paula Willis, the parks and recreation director, said sponsorships and vendor fees covered 70% of community event expenses.
More than 90 percent of the contributions were associated with the township's sponsor-advertiser packages, which include magazine advertisements in South Fayette Connect, social media tags, event sign recognition and other perks.
The program offers opportunities for organizations to show community pride while enjoying recognition for their contributions.
"Thanks to the generosity of our business community, along with the advertising opportunities we can offer,
we're able to keep community events free to the public," Willis said.
Program revenues are earmarked in the township budget for South Fayette Community Day, Touch-a-Truck, Movies in the Park, Summer Kickoff Concert, Bunny Hop in the Park, Earth Cleanup Week, iCan Bike Camp, Accessible Hunt, Thanks for Giving and Joy-Thru Fairview.
Plus, Washington Financial Bank donated $3,000 to Summer Playground Camp, an affordable recreation program for children ages 5 to 12.
About 100 people attended Thanks for Giving for lunch, networking and golfing. Each sponsor received a certificate, and top sponsors took home trophies.
Washington Financial Bank was honored for overall giving. Other top contributors were St. Clair Health; GibsonThomas Engineering; Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh; Dodaro, Dalfonso, Matta & Cambest, P.C.; John Kosky Contracting Inc.; Kiddie Academy
of South Fayette; Charter Homes & Neighborhoods; and European Wax Center.
The most frequent event supporters were John Kosky Contracting, Kiddie Academy, Schulz Service Center, St. Clair Health and Woofles Premier Pet Resort.
The township also honored Susan, George and Patiance Nugent as Volunteers of the Year. The family served a combined 100 hours at township events in 2024. 2025 sponsorship and advertising details: 412-221-8700; southfayettepa.com/sponsor.
sponsor-advertiser
Clockwise from left:
◀ Thanks for Giving guests enjoy Topgolf. ▲ The South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners honors top sponsors. ▲ Business guests socialize before lunch.
▶ Commissioners' president Chuck Lazzini, left, and recreation coordinator Ian McNeill, right, honor Patiance Nugent and her parents, Susan and George, as Volunteers of the Year.
Photos by Shelley Phoennik
Business community members chat with South Fayette Township Manager
John M. Barrett, right, during a municipal center tour in October. The township co-hosted "Get to Know Your Municipality" with the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce. (Photo by Shelley Phoennik)
Chambers of commerce connect, strengthen business community
South Fayette Township belongs to South West Regional and Pittsburgh Airport Area groups
By Andrea Iglar
Before LinkedIn, there were chambers of commerce.
While these business associations traditionally focused on professional networking, today their role has expanded beyond in-person mixers.
South Fayette Township is a dues-paying member of two chambers: the South West Regional Chamber of Commerce in Collier (500 members) and the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce in Moon (900 members).
Many businesses in South Fayette also belong to each chamber, and new members are welcome to join from
anywhere, even outside a chamber’s footprint.
Chamber representatives say that while business-to-business connections remain the core of their work, they have broadened their functions, partnerships and technology to help amplify business messages across their communities.
"We’re primarily here to support the business community and advocate for them and connect people."
—Michelle Kreutzer, Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce
The South West Regional chamber, focusing on 10 communities in the West and South Hills, has been operating for nearly 100 years.
Mandi Pryor, the executive director, said the organization has evolved to become a marketing and promotional support system for members, including small businesses and people working outside the brickand-mortar model.
“A chamber of commerce in its simplest form is a way to connect with other businesses,” she said. “We’re also
shouting out that they’re here.”
Technology has driven chamber services in recent years, and one of the membership perks is digital marketing via e-newsletters, social media platforms, webpages and a digital sign board. Pryor also interviews business leaders for audio and video broadcasts, and the chamber is developing an app to connect people.
“We’re looking toward the future, five to 10 years down the road,” Pryor said.
Essentially, the chamber aims to highlight everything the community offers and attract people to live and work here, she said.
“We’re here to support any way we can, whether you’re a community member or a business,” Pryor said.
Each chamber has a small paid staff and a volunteer board of directors, and they heavily rely on members to serve on committees. South West Regional’s fulltime director has help from a part-time office manager. The Airport Area chamber has one part-time and five full-time employees.
The Airport Area chamber, with roots reaching back 120 years, serves 34 communities in the Pittsburgh International Airport corridor.
South Fayette has been more connected to the airport since the Southern Beltway opened in 2021. The township is home to the South Fayette Way interchange and about four miles of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s toll highway.
Chris Heck, president and CEO of the Airport Area chamber, said his organization has a strong partnership with the Allegheny County Airport Authority.
“The airport attracts all kinds of different businesses, so in turn we have become the airport authority's voice to the business community,” he said.
◀ Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce president/CEO Chris Heck, left, and executive director Michelle Kreutzer serve 34 communities from their Moon Township office.
▼ Mandi Pryor, executive director of the Collier-based South West Regional Chamber of Commerce, focuses on 10 municipalities in the West and South Hills.
Photos by Andrea Iglar
A few dozen chamber members are in the shipping, trucking and logistics industry, and when the new airport opens later this year, additional companies, including cargo, are expected to move to the area.
While larger corporations belong to the chamber, about 80 percent of members are small businesses who join for networking, executive director Michelle Kreutzer said.
“We’re primarily here to support the business community and advocate for them and connect people,” she said.
Each chamber holds about 50 events a year, mixing social events with educational speakers, elected official updates and other types of gatherings.
In October, the Airport Area chamber partnered with South Fayette Township to host “Get to Know Your Municipality” at the municipal center. Business leaders attended for a presentation about township services, a building
tour and networking.
“We benefit from meeting business leaders who invest in our community and hearing what they have to say about issues that are important to them,” Township Manager John M. Barrett said.
Heck said it’s important for the business community to have good relationships with government officials, and vice versa.
“The municipalities see the chambers as an asset," he said. "It’s just part of a successful fabric of a strong municipality.”
South West Regional Chamber of Commerce: 990 Washington Pike, Collier: 412-221-4100; southwestregionalchamber.org
Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce: 850 Beaver Grade Road, Moon: 412-264-6270; paacc.com
▼ Apex Newbury, as seen from Newbury Market in January, is under construction along Oakridge Road in South Fayette. The first four buildings of the upscale apartment community are valued at $29 million.
Newbury, Washington Pike development continues
Construction value ramps up in South Fayette
By Andrea Iglar
Builders invested $75 million in South Fayette Township in 2024—a 57% increase over the prior year.
The combined commercial and residential construction value included $64 million for new structures, plus $11 million for renovations and other improvements.
A major portion of the new construction is the $29 million first phase of South Fayette-based Alpha Residential’s Apex Newbury.
The 416-unit commercial apartment complex is under construction on the south side of Oakridge Road. Four buildings totaling more than 392,000 square feet are set to open in 2026, and then two more buildings will be added on the north side.
Other commercial projects permitted in 2024 were:
• Clearview Federal Credit Union and Heartland Dental, 3049 Washington Pike, 8,400 square feet on the former King’s restaurant site, set to open in 2025 ($2.6 million)
• Clean Express Auto Wash, 187 Millers Run Road, 3,700 square feet under construction at The Piazza, set to open in 2025 ($1.5 million)
• Radiance Plastic Surgery, 3037 Washington Pike, The Crossings at South Fayette, interior renovation ($300,000)
• Beacon 1 at Abele Business Park, 44 Abele Road, interior office renovation ($300,000)
• BBL Fleet, 100 Old Pond Road, interior renovation ($1 million)
• Rexel, 130 Southpointe Drive, interior renovation ($280,000)
• Steelmax, 121 Southpointe Drive, interior renovation ($65,000)
Township Manager John M. Barrett said continued commercial development balances the residential side and helps ensure longterm financial stability: "It speaks to a more well-rounded local economy for us."
Building Permits
The township Building and Code Department issues permits and conducts inspections to ensure projects are safely built to code.
In 2024, the department issued 349 building permits (23 more than in 2023) valued at $75 million. The permits generated $302,180 in township fees—double the prior year.
"An uptick in permit fees is a really good indicator of financial sustainability," Barrett said.
A total of 46 commercial permits included six for new construction; 34 for accessory features such as fire alarms and signs; and six for alterations, renovations and demolitions.
The $20 million Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is expected to break ground at Newbury Market in 2025. Architectural rendering courtesy
A total of 303 residential building permits were issued (46 more than the prior year), including 91 for new homes valued at $32 million.
New homes—including 61 single-family and 30 townhouses— were in Hastings, Stonegate, Newbury, Kevington and The Estates of Lions Ridge.
Homeowners spent $6.5 million on 199 accessory structures such as decks (75), fences (34), deck/patio roofs (34), sheds (24), swimming pools/hot tubs (11), rooftop solar panels (10), detached garages and carports (8) and retaining walls (4).
Photo by Andrea Iglar
▼
of Bass Pro
BUILDING PERMITS
2024 YEAR IN REVIEW
South Fayette Township
Looking Ahead
Traditions of America, an anticipated 497acre mixed-use project, canceled plans in South Fayette—but other commercial and residential projects are on the horizon.
Bass Pro Shops is expected to break ground this spring for a 99,000-squarefoot Outdoor World recreation and sporting goods store at Newbury Market. Upon opening in 2026, the shop will be the first in Western Pennsylvania.
In January, the township was processing building permits for the $20 million store.
"With the Bass Pro announcement, we anticipate that commercial building permits will continue to increase," Barrett said. "Bass Pro is a regional draw with a big footprint. Their presence will help attract other businesses to Newbury."
Mezeh Mediterranean Grill continues work on a restaurant at The Piazza.
Projects eligible to apply for building permits include The Wembley Club, a pickleball and fitness facility planned for Newbury Market, and Lafayette 180, a shopping center planned on the former site of Foremost Auto at Route 50 and Newbury.
Residential building will continue on Mayview Road in the fourth phase of the Hastings plan, including 71 townhouses and 24 single-family homes.
Another 114 lots are proposed in the next three phases of Stonegate, a housing plan being built along Battle Ridge Road.
On Mayview Road, 32 duplex units are expected in 2027. At the Oakdale border, the Walkers Mill plan includes 34 townhomes in South Fayette, along the Panhandle Trail. Completion is expected in 2028.
Diamond Sponsor ◆ Joy-Thru Fairview ◆ Thank you!
◀ This $2.6 million building on the former King's restaurant site, 3049 Washington Pike, will house a dental office and credit union.
Photo by Andrea Iglar
How are township tax dollars spent?
In the $19,469,082 operating budget for 2025, the biggest areas of spending are police, public works, trash and recycling collection, and a transfer to the fund for capital projects, such as road paving, bridge repair, park improvement and equipment replacement.
Infographic by Andrea Iglar Percentages are rounded
Township adjusts property tax millage rate
Additional dollars fund capital
By Andrea Iglar
South Fayette Township has adopted a $19.5 million budget for 2025 with a property tax increase of 1.25 mills, the first tax rate adjustment in seven years.
The real estate tax rate increased from 4.73 mills to 5.98 mills, resulting in an additional $125 per year for each $100,000 in home value.
For the median assessed home value of $163,900, the township tax bill increases from $775 to $980 a year.
The township Board of Commissioners adopted the budget in December.
The five-member board explored various options, including possible fees, to alleviate inflationary pressures and cover higher costs for everything from utilities to waste collection.
The board ultimately found that a tax rate adjustment, which covers residential and commercial taxpayers, would be the most equitable approach.
Board president Chuck Lazzini said commissioners held three budget
improvements
workshops and examined every line item, making cuts that would not reduce or negatively impact services.
“This isn’t something we want to do, it’s something we need to do,” Lazzini said. “Due to big-picture economic headwinds, we need to be responsible and not put the township in a poor fiscal position.”
This is the township's first property tax adjustment since 2018, when the rate increased by 0.25 mills. In 2016, the rate had increased by 1 mill.
The increase is expected to generate an additional $2.1 million in 2025.
Nearly $2 million will be transferred to the capital fund for road paving, truck and equipment replacement, facility rehabilitation, matching commitments for park grants, and other projects.
Capital improvements involve public assets such as infrastructure, facilities and equipment that have a useful life of at least 10 years.
Township Manager John M.
Barrett said that in prior years, the operating budget had enough money to comfortably fund capital projects. However, due to higher costs for waste collection, insurances and other expenses—paired with slower than expected real estate tax revenue growth—the general budget was too strained to fund the capital plan over the next five years.
“Without an influx of dollars, we wouldn’t be able to do anything in the capital program, like road paving, bridge repairs and park improvements,” he said. Projects and purchases to be considered in the 2025 capital improvement plan include:
• Possible rehabilitation of the former municipal offices and public works garage on Millers Run Road
• Road improvement program
• Police gear; automated external defibrillators; traffic cameras
• Public Works equipment for park and field maintenance; vehicle and equipment replacements; items for maintenance buildings at Fairview and Boys Home parks
• Morgan Park signs; Fairview Park tennis court resurfacing
• Stormwater improvements
• Information technology needs
• Traffic signal maintenance; Mohawk Road redesign
Also, the township must contribute cost-sharing funds to take advantage of millions of dollars in grants secured for projects in Fairview Park.
These include construction of three new ball fields on the Mayview site, installation of artificial turf on two multipurpose fields, and creation of a sidewalk and trail network.
How much local tax money goes
to
the township, school & county?
South Fayette property owners pay real estate tax to three separate entities—South Fayette Township, Allegheny County and South Fayette School District. School taxes are the most expensive, accounting for 68.3% percent of a property owner's total real estate taxes paid.
The smallest proportion—15.3%—goes to the township government. The county's share is 16.4%.
South Fayette voters have elected Kevin Biber as the Real Estate Tax Collector to accept tax payments for both the township and the school district. The Allegheny County Treasurer collects county taxes.
Elected officials for each entity set their annual property tax rate. The five-member Board of Commissioners set the tax rate for the township government at 5.98 mills, or $598 per $100,000 in assessed value.
Allegheny County Council set the county rate, which is 6.43 mills.
The nine-member school board set the tax rate for the public school district at 26.7 mills, or $2,670 per $100,000.
—Text & infographic by Andrea Iglar
5,000
◀ HOW SPORTING OF YOU
In October, nine deer hunters with physical disabilities spent two days socializing and enjoying outdoor sporting at the Alpine Hunting & Fishing Club and Boys Home Park in South Fayette Township. They were assisted by 48 volunteers, including Public Works employees.
Pictured: Greg Traynor, foreground, relaxes after lunch with fellow hunters Ed Leeper, left, and Ed Fink, right, and volunteer John Traynor, back, at the Alpine Club in October.
Photo by Andrea Iglar
Emerald Sponsor ◆ South Fayette Community Day ◆ Thank you!
PARKS & RECREATION PROGRAMS
WINTER & SPRING
FEB. 25- MAR. 18
TUESDAYS 5:30 PM-6:30 PM
MARCH 20
THURSDAY
6:30PM- 7:30PM
CHEMISTRY CHAOS
Grades 1-3, $95/child South Fayette Senior Center
PIE MAKING CLASS
Adults Age 18+ $30/person South Fayette Senior Center
MARCH 16
SUNDAY
12 PM - 2 PM
APRIL 3- MAY 1
THURSDAYS 10 AM-11 :30AM
APRIL 3, MAY 1, MAY 15
THURSDAYS
5 PM-6:30PM
APRIL 15
TUESDAY 6:30 PM8:45 PM
MARCH 19-MAY 14
WEDNESDAYS
5 PM -7:40PM
APRIL 24MAY 29
THURSDAYS
5:45PM- 7:45PM
APRIL-MAY TIMES & PRICES VARY
JUNE 23-27
REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 24 (BY INQUIRY ONLY)
MONDAYS
7 PM-8 PM
PARENT & ME TUFTING
Kids age 10 & up w/adult
$75/child with adult; $75 ea. add’l child South Fayette Twp Municipal Ctr
SILLY SCIENCE FOR PRE-K
Ages 2-6, $97/child Use code SILLYFAMILY25 when registering more than one child for $10 discount South Fayette Senior Center
MAD SCIENCE
Ages 6-12, $28/class South Fayette Senior Center
PUZZLE PALOOZA
Ages 7 to adult $5 per group of 2-6 South Fayette Municipal Center
SOCCER SHOTS
Ages 2-8, prices & time slots vary per age group Fairview Park
HOOP STARS BASKETBALL
Ages 3-5, 5:45pm-6:45pm, $115/child
Ages 6-9, 6:45pm-7:45pm, $115/child Morgan Park
ADULT PICKLEBALL & YOUTH TENNIS
Pickleball, Age 18+ Wednesdays @ Morgan Park Tennis, Age 5-16, Saturdays @ Fairview Park
Ages 8 to adult, $300 Camp teaches riders w/disabilities to independently ride a 2-wheeled bike South Fayette Intermediate School
Ages 18+
$12 per class Sturgeon Vol. Fire Department
Joy-Thru Fairview
December 6 , 2024
Photos by Daniel Thompson
sfadmin@sftwp.com
TV & ELECTRONICS RECYCLING
Televisions (all types & sizes)
Computers & Laptops
Monitors (LCD & CRT)
Computer mice, keyboards, speakers, cords, wires
Printers, Copiers, Fax Machines & Scanners
Gaming Consoles & Systems
Telephones & Radios
Microwaves
PROHIBITED
Smoke Detectors
Loose Batteries
Medical Equipment/Waste
Curling Irons / Shavers / Personal Hygiene Items
Paper
Loose Software
VCR Tapes/Discs
Pianos/Organs
Vacuum/Carpet Cleaners
General Rubbish
SATURDAYS: MAY 3 & SEPT 6, 2025 10 AM - 2 PM
*Items containing Freon / refrigerant are $25 each
Equipment and appliances with a cord are accepted.
South Fayette Township
Trash & Recycling
Garbage is collected weekly and recycling every 2 weeks. Do not bag recyclables. Place bins at the curb before 6 AM on pickup day. Bulk collection is the 2nd full week of each month. If an observed holiday falls during the week before your pickup day, collection is delayed one day.
Waste Management wm.com ◆ 1-800-866-4460
MARCH
APRIL
The South Fayette Township offices, meeting chambers and police station moved to a new building (GPS: 323 Hickory Grade Rd) 100 Township Drive, South Fayette PA 15017
Ph: 412-221-8700 Web: SouthFayettePA.com
Staff Directory
John M. Barrett, Township Manager
Administration
Patrick J. Catena, Assistant Manager
Joe Hollowood, IT Director
Shannen McKahan, Finance Officer
Peggy Patterson, Executive Assistant
Communications & Community Development
Thurs. Feb. 13
Fri. Feb. 14 Trash
April 10
April 17
Andrea Iglar, Director Planning, Building & Code
Gary Hartz, Planning/Zoning Director
Joe Niedermeyer, Building Code Official
John Kanaskie, Engineering/Code Abbey Scheerer, Administrative Assistant
Parks & Recreation
Paula Willis, Director Ian McNeill, Recreation Coordinator Public Works
Vitali Alexandrov, Director Dan Dernosek, Superintendent Sandra Bukovinsky, Administrative Assistant Police
John R. Phoennik, Chief of Police Dana Korbe, Administrative Assistant Police Business Office: 412-221-2170
Emergency & Dispatch: 9-1-1
Community Resources
South Fayette Township Library 412-257-8660, SouthFayetteLibrary.org
South Fayette Area Senior Citizens Association 412-221-3730, SouthFayettePA.com/seniors
South Fayette School District 412-221-4542, SouthFayette.org
Historical Society of South Fayette Township SouthFayettePA.com/history
Tax Collectors
Real Estate Tax, Kevin Biber: 412-221-9250, SouthFayettePA.com/tax
Earned Income Tax, Jordan Tax Service: 412-835-5243, JordanTax.com
Municipal Authority (Dye Tests & Sanitary Sewers) 412-257-5100, MATSF.net
Chambers of Commerce
South West: 412-221-4100, SouthWestRegionalChamber.org
Pittsburgh Airport Area: 412-264-6270, PAACC.com
Ambulance & Emergency Medical Services
SouthBridge EMS: 412-221-5115, SouthBridgeEMS.com
Volunteer Fire Departments in South Fayette Fairview, Oak Ridge, South Fayette, Sturgeon: SouthFayettePA.com/fire
