Maureen Sirianni, left, and Christie Byers of Concordia, and Kelly Carpenter of Frios Gourmet Pops, enjoy the Thanks For Giving sponsor appreciation luncheon at Topgolf in November. Photo by Shelley Phoennik.
On the Cover
Winter weather spurred work and play across South Fayette Township in January. Clockwise from top, photos courtesy of Jessica Gruntz, Bill Kulp, Christine Meley-Magdich, Lindsey Good, Manav Patel, Kayla Chaybin, Trenton Delaney, Priscilla Sheader, Matt Bender via Molly Lieb and Andrea Iglar. Main/center image by Kate Szalinski Fournier.
Manager's Message
JOHN M. BARRETT
The winter storm in January delivered record-setting snowfall and put our township’s snow response to a serious test.
The first day and night, our Public Works crew worked 17 hours to clear and treat more than 100 miles of roadway, ensuring emergency vehicles and commuters could travel safely.
In the days that followed, they continued storm cleanup, doing their best under challenging conditions to maintain our streets and public spaces. Their response reflects the planning, teamwork and dedication they bring to every snowstorm.
This level of readiness doesn’t happen by chance. Effective snow removal depends on well-maintained equipment, trained staff and the resources to respond quickly when severe weather strikes.
As you review the 2026 township budget featured in this issue of South Fayette Connect (page 18), you’ll see how behind-the-scenes investments support essential services like snow removal and ensure our Public Works team is prepared when conditions are at their worst.
As always, we appreciate your patience during winter weather events and your support for the people and planning that keep our township moving safely all season long.
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
Ian McNeill, Paula Willis, Kristen Bagwell
CONTRIBUTORS
Harry Funk
Shelley Phoennik
Abbey Scheerer
Daniel Thompson Photography
School District
Jennifer Donovan, Elise Simon
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 news and information aimed at connecting people with local government and fostering a strong sense of community identity and pride.
South Fayette Connect offers advertisements in exchange for sponsorship of certain community events and programs. Contact the magazine editor or visit SouthFayettePA.com/ads
CONNECT WITH US
SouthFayettePA.com/magazine magazine@sftwp.com; 412-221-8700, ext. 231 South Fayette Township, Allegheny County PA PRINTING
South Fayette SHORTS
Officer Greco takes oath
Sam Greco has joined the South Fayette Township Police Department.
Greco formerly was a police officer in Aspinwall, Saxonburg, East Deer and Frazier. A graduate of the Allegheny County Police Academy, he holds an associate degree in criminal justice and a bachelor's degree in criminology.
District Judge Maureen McGrawDesmet administered the oath of office to Greco during the township
Recycle to-go cups
Waste hauler WM has added plastic and paper to-go cups to the list of recyclables accepted in residential recycling carts. Cups should be free of food and liquid.
WM calendar correction
The 2026 WM collection schedule printed in the fall 2025 issue of South Fayette Connect highlighted an incorrect pickup date. Trash pickup will be Thurs. Sept. 24 and Friday Sept. 25.
Rotary donates park amenity
The Bridgeville-South Fayette Rotary Club has donated a picnic table with a solarpowered charging station for Morgan Park in South Fayette. The $6,900 table has benches, a space for a wheelchair and an umbrella-shaped shade structure with solar panels that power a wireless smartphone charging station. Similar amenities are at the splash pad in Fairview Park.
Blood drives coming up
Vitalant will host blood drives at the South Fayette Township Municipal Center,
Trailhead secures grant funding
The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has awarded South Fayette Township a $320,000 matching grant to help build a trailhead, shelter with restrooms, parking and other improvements along Mayview Road. Design will start this year, with construction tentatively set for 2027. The project, across from OTB Bicycle Café, will connect to a crosswalk on Mayview Road and to planned nature trails in Fairview Park.
Artificial turf installation set
The South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners has approved a $3 million contract with FieldTurf to renovate two existing multipurpose athletic fields at Fairview Park. The renovation will include the installation of artificial turf, an ADAaccessible walkway around the fields, fencing, netting and new steps leading to the Rotary Pavilion. Construction is anticipated from March through August this year. The project is partially offset by $1.15 million in grant funding and contributions from township athletic associations.
▲ PLAQUE UNVEILED
The South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners has honored former commissioner Tom Sray with a memorial plaque in the Municipal Center.
Beckie Sray, his wife and a current commissioner, unveiled the plaque after the board meeting Jan. 14—two days shy of the 10-year anniversary of her husband's passing.
The same evening, Beckie Sray took the oath of office for her third term; she first was elected commissioner in 2017.
The Thomas J. Sray Executive Conference Center recognizes Sray, a lifelong South Fayette resident who died in 2016 after 20 years of public service. He was a commissioner from 1994 to 2014. An advocate of accessible activities and facilities, he had used a wheelchair since 1991 and founded the township’s annual Disabled Sportsmen’s Hunt in 2002.
—Photo & text by Andrea Iglar
◀ TRAFFIC SAFETY
For the seventh year, the South Fayette Township Police Department earned a AAA Community Traffic Safety Award, which recognizes efforts to increase road safety.
Police Chief John Phoennik, left, accepted the 2025 Platinum Award from AAA East Central President Terri Petrick in December.
After 31 years as a South Fayette police officer, Mike Blocher shifted gears last August to become the township's code enforcement officer. His familiarity with the community and the people helped him make the transition. "You treat everybody the way you want to be treated," he says. "That's what I tried to do."
Hometown: Grew up in Scott Township; moved to South Fayette in 1993
Education: Graduated from Chartiers Valley High School; attended California University of PA, where he pitched baseball; graduated from Allegheny County Police Academy
Family: Wife, Christine; children, Nicolas and Courtney; granddaughter, Capri, 1
Pets: Dog, Thor, a small Cavapoo
Hobbies: Playing golf, lifting weights
First Job: Concession stand worker at the Civic Arena and later, an usher and security guard
First Car: 1978 Camaro Z28, black
Favorite Sport: Ice hockey
Favorite TV: "Yellowstone"
Favorite Music: 80s hair bands
Favorite Food: Italian dishes
Bucket List: Visit Italy
Best Qualities of South Fayette: The convenient location and the residents.
Fun Fact: Each Christmas season, Mike and his wife make hundreds of gnocchi and ravioli based on their family recipes.
— Andrea Iglar
How do I keep my sidewalks safe during winter weather?
You can keep your sidewalks safe when they are snowy and icy. Use salt or ice melt, shovel early and often, add traction, wear nonslip boots and help your neighbors.
Although snow can make for beautiful scenery, it can be a huge safety hazard.
We are continually grateful to our Public Works crews, who work hard throughout the winter months to keep our roads safe from the hazards of snow and ice.
Now, let’s learn what you can do as a resident to help keep your sidewalks and property safe this snowy season.
Use Salt or Ice Melt
Apply salt as a pretreatment before snowfall to create a barrier, making it
be sure to use a pet-safe ice melter to protect their sensitive paws and prevent them from ingesting toxins.
Shovel Early and Often
During a winter storm, shoveling frequently not only can make snow easier to manage but also can prevent ice from forming underneath the snow.
However, for areas near a road, wait to shovel until after plows are done clearing the street. If you are facing the street, it's best to shovel the snow to your right.
Spread Kindness
If you are able, it’s always a good idea to help those in need who may not have the capability to get out and shovel for themselves. Let’s work together to help our neighbors in need so their homes can be as safe as ours.
Step Safely
Don’t forget to dress for the conditions. Wear shoes or boots with nonslip rubber, and do your best to avoid wet or dark areas of the pavement when walking.
Chief's Corner
JOHN PHOENNIK
Help ensure safe winter road maintenance
We have dealt with plenty of snow and cold this winter. While the weather can be challenging, we can make the season safer for everyone traveling on our roads. When roads are snowy or icy, crews from South Fayette Township Public Works plow and salt to improve safety. Day and night, crews operate 17 routes
on more than 100 miles of roadway in our 21-square-mile community.
Here are some ways residents can help us ensure safe, successful snow and ice removal:
• Do not park vehicles on streets or culs-de-sac when bad weather is predicted.
• Remove basketball hoops or other equipment that is blocking the road or hanging above the road.
• Ensure your mailbox does not extend over the edge of the road.
• Trim back overgrown trees or vegetation.
• Do not shovel snow into the road (this is state law).
• Shovel your driveway after plows are done clearing the street. When facing the road, pile snow on your property to your right.
• Keep a 3-foot diameter clear around fire hydrants.
Please
The South Fayette police department works hand in hand with Public Works and the South Fayette School District to communicate road conditions for the benefit of motorists and the safety of our children. This way, Public Works can prioritize street treatment, and school officials can determine if they need to delay or cancel classes.
We appreciate your assistance in providing safe streets during winter weather.
John Phoennik is chief of the South Fayette Township Police Department.
Monoxide Safety
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Did you know?
Did you know?
Did you know?
More than 150 people in the U.S. accidental nonfire-related carbon
More than 150 people in the U.S. die every year from accidental nonfire-related carbon monoxide poisoning.
More than 150 people in the U.S. die every year from accidental nonfire-related carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide or CO is a colorless can occur when a fuel-burning appliance heater or generator, is not working at high levels can be fatal.
Learn what you can do to protect your
Carbon monoxide or CO is a colorless and odorless gas. CO poisoning can occur when a fuel-burning appliance or machine, such as a furnace, heater or generator, is not working or vented properly. Breathing in CO at high levels can be fatal.
o Install and maintain CO alarms inside warning of CO.
Learn what you can do to protect your family from the dangers of CO.
Carbon monoxide or CO is a colorless and odorless gas. CO poisoning can occur when a fuel-burning appliance or machine, such as a furnace, heater or generator, is not working or vented properly. Breathing in CO at high levels can be fatal.
o Install CO alarms in a central location area and on every level of your home.
o Install and maintain CO alarms inside your home to provide early warning of CO.
Learn what you can do to protect your family from the dangers of CO.
o Use portable generators outdoors doors, windows and vents.
o Install and maintain CO alarms inside your home to provide early warning of CO.
o Install CO alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home.
o Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, snow and other debris.
o Install CO alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home.
o Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows and vents.
o Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows and vents.
o Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
o Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
For more information and free resources, visit www.usfa.fema.gov
South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP
RAISE A PUPPY
Organization connects service dogs with military veterans
By Harry Funk
When lifelong South Fayette resident Richie Schneider joined the U.S. Marine Corps, he had a specific purpose in mind.
His commanders had other ideas.
“I went in to be a canine handler, but I was put in an 81-millimeter mortar platoon. So I never got to fulfill that dream,” he recalled. “When I came out, I still had the love for the dogs like I’ve always had since I was a kid.”
That eventually led him to volunteer as a puppy raiser for Warrior Canine Connection, a nonprofit that pairs rigorously trained service dogs with veterans. He helps prepare pups for any number of situations they may encounter when they eventually are placed.
“It’s simulating everything and anything,” he said, giving an example of visiting a shop at Carnegie Mellon University: “I’d walk with the dog, and I would go through and stop to look at some shirts. And I kind of rattled the hangers and did everything that I thought a veteran would do.”
Accompanying him on such sojourns is Sue Watson, Pittsburgh-area program manager and service dog training instructor for Maryland-based Warrior Canine Connection.
“One day we were walking, and the dog I was training kept wanting to go toward this one bush,” Schneider said, drawn to the presence of a groundhog hole. “So we had to take the time to correct the dog, to let it know, hey, you’re not allowed to do that. Because if you’re with a real veteran, you can’t pull like that.”
He also helps pups—golden and Labrador retrievers, the organization’s preferred breeds based on their eager-to-please personalities—adapt to having their paws touch various types of surfaces to guide veterans who have disabilities or experience conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
The dogs learn a multitude of commands compared with their house-pet counterparts.
“There’s a lot more to it than just the basic ‘sit,’ ‘heel,’ ‘stay,’ ‘come,’ that type of stuff,” Schneider explained.
Volunteers go through their own training to launch future companions on their paths toward joining the lives of veterans.
“Our organization really stands on the shoulders of puppy raisers, because that’s where the dogs spend from eight weeks until probably 18 to 20 months old,” Watson said.
During that time, the pups move through various levels of progress.
“The first rank is really just getting them used to a new environment and regular house manners,” she said. “And then we start to socialize them.”
Warrior Canine Connection is part of Assistance Dogs
International, and according to Watson, the coalition’s members face a common challenge.
“Every single one of those organizations is struggling to find puppy raisers. Currently, there’s about a two-year wait for a welltrained service dog,” she said.
“We have plenty of dogs. We breed our own dogs. We put them through all sorts of checks before we would consider them to be breeders. We have plenty of veterans in need, but we don’t have enough puppy raisers.”
Schneider learned about the opportunity from South Fayette native Tony Morelli, whose sister Molly Morelli founded Warrior Canine Connection with her husband, Rick Yount.
“What I’m getting out of it is that I’m giving back to a veteran who has PTSD,” Schneider said, offering “whatever I can do to help.”
Details:
warriorcanineconnection.org
Platinum Sponsor ◆ Thanks For Giving ◆ Thank you!
▲ South Fayette residents and puppy raisers Tony Morelli, left, and Richie Schneider join Sue Watson of Warrior Canine Connection at the South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners meeting in January. The residents raise future service dogs like black lab Merc, left, and golden retriever Fran. (Photos by Andrea Iglar)
South Fayette AROUND THE TOWNSHIP
QUALITY TIME
South Fayette mothers and daughters volunteer together
By Harry Funk
With many people’s schedules packed tightly, finding productive and meaningful family time together can be a challenge.
But Patricia Khalil of South Fayette has embraced a volunteer opportunity with her daughters, Mia and Leah Eldaher, that lets them do just that.
The trio participates in the local chapter of the National Charity League Inc., a century-old service organization that expanded to Western Pennsylvania in 2023.
The Pittsburgh Linxx Chapter
fortunate as them,” Khalil said. “And also, I wanted some time with them, but also something meaningful.”
Khalil, the chapter’s vice president of communications, browses a comprehensive calendar and select activities that interest her family.
works with about 40 nonprofits to offer opportunities for community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. Other South Fayette families participate, too.
Khalil said the league is good resource for her daughters.
“I really need them to have their feet on the ground and see what everybody else is living through. Not everybody can be as
Mothers & Daughters (clockwise from left)
◀ Patricia Khalil, right, of South Fayette, and her daughters Mia, left, and Leah Eldaher volunteer at Ronald McDonald House.
▲ South Fayette junior Nora Latouf, right, and her mother, Kate Latouf, attend the Linxx Chapter’s annual kickoff meeting in August.
Among the trio's philanthropic pursuits are cooking and serving breakfast at Ronald McDonald House in Lawrenceville, making cookies for Meals on Wheels and packing meals for the Pittsburgh Leadership Foundation’s Amen to Action.
“It’s really nice to be involved within the community,” Mia, a South Fayette High School junior, said.
“I already did a bit of volunteering at our church, but now I get to branch out.”
She gained leadership experience on the committee by organizing the Linxx’s version of the National Charity League Tea, an annual tradition for all chapters dating back to 1947. She gave a history presentation in front of a large group.
The skills Mia develops through the league benefit her other pursuits. For
▲▲ South Fayette sophomore Anika Acharya, right, with her mother, Pallavi Acharya, was among 14 Linxx Chapter members honored by PA Gov. Josh Shapiro in December for their volunteer service.
Submitted photos
example, her YALLA Pittsburgh project connects Arabic-speaking people in the area while supporting the Arab community in general.
Nationally, league members donate more than 3 million volunteer hours a year to 6,000-plus charities.
Mia and her sister, Leah, a South Fayette Middle School eighth grader, have met fellow league members from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, while gaining knowledge their mother considers essential.
“For us moms, we want to show the girls that you, first of all, can give your time,” Khalil said. “You can be a leader. ... You can serve. And I think these are good lessons for later in life.”
The Linxx Chapter encourages girls entering grades seven to nine in the fall to join, along with their moms. Details: nationalcharityleague.org/chapter/ pittsburghlinxx.
Harry Funk is a freelance writer.
‘Bag of tricks’ for first responders
Autism awareness project donates sensory kits to South Fayette police department
By Andrea Iglar
Sunglasses for bright lights. Earplugs for loud noises. Stickers, books, crayons, bubbles. Pen and paper to communicate with a nonverbal or deaf person. A tried-and-true stuffed toy.
These are items that can help a child, especially one with autism or sensory needs, during an encounter with first responders.
The 12 Months of April autism advocacy project donated 20 sensory kits, containing these items and more, to the South Fayette Township Police Department in January to help occupy and calm children during stressful situations.
Shaler resident and art teacher Kati Maas-Crawford and her husband, Foster Crawford, a school IT director, started the project last April— which is Autism Awareness Month. The family promotes resources that benefit people with special needs.
Maas-Crawford said the kit contents can help kids soothe stress responses, communicate, stay occupied, build rapport with officers and distract themselves with something fun.
“Everything in here has a purpose,” she said. “It’s really just a bag of tricks to help make things better for everyone.”
Foster Crawford said the kit is a tool to make overstimulating circumstances easier for children, adults and first responders.
“Normally there is chaos, and we’re just trying to make it calming for them as best as
possible,” he said.
So far, the couple, along with their daughter, Leona, 6, has delivered more than 700 kits to police, fire and emergency medical services throughout the region, including the township police and SouthBridge EMS in South Fayette.
John Phoennik, the South Fayette police chief, said each cop car will carry a kit, handy when an officer needs it.
Usually a police presence involves sirens and flashing lights, which can make someone feel scared of officers, and the toolkit “brings that comfort level up, makes that connection,” Phoennik said.
The family purchases items out of pocket and accepts donations. Total value of each kit is under $10.
The project also promotes free public services such as the Yellow Dot program for people in traffic crashes who can’t talk; Project Lifesaver, which can quickly locate registered people who have wandered away; and the Allegheny County Premise Alert, a voluntary special needs registry that identifies residents requiring additional assistance during an emergency.
“We’re just trying to bridge the gaps and help everyone,” MaasCrawford said.
Find 12 Months of April on Facebook, or email 12moapittpa@gmail.com
◀ South Fayette Police Chief John Phoennik, standing, accepts a donation of 20 sensory kits from Foster Crawford, left, and Kati Maas-Crawford and their daughter, Leona, 6, at the police station in January. (Photo by Andrea Iglar)
South Fayette BUSINESS
Eatery offers salad and grain bowls
Roots
Natural Kitchen opens at former pizza place in South Fayette
By Andrea Iglar
You can get bowled over by the menu at Roots Natural Kitchen.
The fast casual eatery opened in January in South Fayette with a menu of customizable salads and grain bowls.
The fifth Pittsburgh-area location renovated space in the Gateway Shops at Newbury Market that formerly housed Blaze Pizza, which closed last summer.
Officials from South Fayette Township and the South West Regional Chamber of Commerce joined Roots on Jan. 9 for a ribbon cutting and food tasting.
“Roots is all about natural food tasting good,” said Larissa Caballero, director of advertising for Roots. “We want you to eat good and feel good.”
El Jefe, the most popular signature bowl, includes brown rice with kale, black beans, charred corn, red onions, avocado, pita chips, feta and cilantro lime dressing. It comes with chicken, which you can swap for tofu.
You can adjust ingredients for dietary preferences and restrictions, or you can build your own bowl.
Founded in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2015, Roots operates more than 20 restaurants in six states. Other Pittsburgh-area locations are in Scott Township, Ross Township, Bloomfield and Oakland, with another planned this year in North Fayette.
“We are so excited to have our second Roots Natural Kitchen location here in the South Hills,”
said Mandi Pryor, the chamber’s executive director.
“And I think if you’re like me and I ate a million cookies this winter, healthy looks really appetizing right about now.”
Roots offers options for dine-in, pickup, delivery, mobile ordering and catering.
Kids under 12 eat free with adult purchase all day, every day (child must be present).
“It’s accessible, it’s convenient, it’s tasty,” Caballero said. “We’re here for you however you need us.”
Roots Natural Kitchen: 160 Millers Run Road, South Fayette: 412-206-0301; rootsnaturalkitchen.com
◀ Heather Kennedy, general manager of the new Roots Natural Kitchen in South Fayette, cuts a ceremonial ribbon Jan. 9, flanked by, to the left, State Sen. Devlin Robinson and township commissioner Beckie Sray, and to the right, Roots advertising director Larissa Caballero and South West Regional Chamber of Commerce executive director Mandi Pryor.
Photo by Andrea Iglar
Gold Sponsor ◆ Bunny Hop in the Park ◆
THE ROLLING HILLS OF SOUTH FAYETTE
Family moves home and hardscaping business to Morgan neighborhood
By Andrea Iglar
When he was a kid, John Linder would hear his grandfather refer to “the rolling hills of Pennsylvania” when they were passing the natural scenery from a car on Interstate 79.
Today, the name of his business, Rolling Hills Landscapes, is an homage to his pap, August J. “Gus” Linder—a Bethel Park resident who was a sprint car racing champion at the now-defunct Heidelberg Raceway and elsewhere.
It’s pure coincidence that the name is similar to Rolling Hills Ranch, the horse riding and boarding facility on Hickory Grade Road in South Fayette.
“I thought there’s no way that anyone is going to confuse us [because] I didn’t imagine we would move about 3 minutes away from it,” Linder said.
He and his wife, Amanda Linder, moved their home-based landscaping outfit to the Morgan neighborhood of South Fayette Township in November after 25 years in the Carrick area of Pittsburgh.
What started as a lawnmowing service now specializes in residential hardscape installation, such as retaining walls and patios.
The Linders, along with two full-time seasonal employees, take jobs throughout the region, and now they aim to expand their work in the South Hills and add landscape maintenance services.
John Linder, who started in the field with a teenage lawnmowing service, is a certified paver installer and instructor through the Concrete Masonry and Hardscapes Association.
The Linders moved their home and business to South Fayette, enrolling their children Sara, 12, Isaac, 11, and Caleb, 9, at the South Fayette School District.
◀ Spouses Amanda Linder, left, and John Linder moved their home and business, Rolling Hills Landscapes, to South Fayette in November. (Photo by Andrea Iglar)
▲ John Linder named the hardscaping service in honor of his grandfather, auto racer Gus Linder, pictured with John as a toddler circa 1982–83 at the Pennsylvania Motor Speedway. Gus had described the local scenery as "the rolling hills of Pennsylvania." (Submitted photo)
Amanda Linder said they were drawn to South Fayette by the schools, the proximity to highways and the community’s potential.
“We can see that everything is growing and it’s up and coming, and it’s not stagnant, and that’s exciting for us as well,” she said.
Since they moved into their home on Wabash Avenue—they don’t have a storefront, and they stow equipment off-site—their neighbors have been very friendly.
“In two months, I’ve had 20 years’ worth of conversations,” John Linder said. “It’s definitely very welcoming.”
Rolling Hills Landscapes, South Fayette: 412-885-7049; rollinghillslandscapes.com
Thanks For Giving luncheon recognizes sponsors, advertisers
Business contributions support free community events in South Fayette
By Andrea Iglar
Last year, 72 organizations contributed a total of $75,135 in cash sponsorships to support community events in South Fayette—six more businesses than in 2024.
Township officials recognized 2025 sponsors during the annual Thanks For Giving appreciation luncheon at Topgolf in South Fayette in November.
Paula Willis, the parks and recreation director, said that sponsorships, combined with vendor fees, covered 82% of community event expenses.
“Sponsor participation grows every year, showing our businesses want to be involved with our community,” Willis said.
“We appreciate these organizations giving back to South Fayette and helping keep our events free to the public.”
The municipal government's sponsorship-advertising program offers opportunities for organizations to make monetary contributions to township activities, while showing community pride and enjoying recognition for their support.
Most sponsorships—about 88%—were associated with advertisements in South Fayette Connect magazine.
Sponsor-advertiser packages can include social media tags, event sign recognition and other promotional perks.
At higher levels, packages include a magazine ad; the larger the sponsorship, the larger the ad.
Program revenues were earmarked in the township budget for South Fayette Community Day, Touch-A-Truck, Movies in the Park (Fairview Flicks), Summer Kickoff Concert, Bunny Hop, Pet Expo (Paws 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, the township's 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 CarepathRx; Dodaro, Dalfonso, Matta & Cambest, P.C.; Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh; Gibson-Thomas Engineering; John Kosky Contracting; Kiddie Academy of South Fayette; Sing Sing Sing; and St. Clair Health.
2026 sponsorship and advertising details: 412-221-8700; southfayettepa.com/sponsor
Sponsor-Advertiser Packages
Appreciation Day
Thanks For Giving guests and township officials enjoy networking, Topgolf play and award recognitions in November.
Photos by Shelley Phoennik
Something new, something improved
New construction was balanced with renovations, additions in 2025
By Andrea Iglar
Builders invested $63.1 million in South Fayette Township in 2025—about half for commercial and half for residential projects.
Total construction value also was split in half—$31.6 million for new structures, plus $31.5 million for renovations, additions and other improvements.
The only new commercial construction start was The Wembley Club, an $8.2 million, 112,400-square-foot racquet and fitness club under way at Newbury Market. Opening is anticipated this fall.
Township Manager John M. Barrett said major commercial investment remains on the horizon in areas such as Newbury Market and the Southern Beltway corridor.
"There's still potential," he said. "We have room to grow."
South Fayette School District received permits to build a $19.2 million, 40,000-square-foot addition to the Intermediate School on the Old Oakdale Road campus. Construction is expected to wrap up in August. The township waives building permit fees for the school district.
Here are some other commercial projects permitted in 2025, along with their estimated construction values:
• BBL Fleet, 100 Old Pond Road, second phase of interior renovation ($1 million)
• Roots Natural Kitchen, 160 Millers Run Road, opened in January after
renovating the 2,300-square-foot former Blaze Pizza space in The Gateway Shops at Newbury Market ($500,000)
• Ava Mae’s Bistro & Pizzeria, 4097 Battle Ridge Road, interior renovation to expand dining room ($70,000)
Construction continued at South Fayette-based Alpha Residential’s Apex Newbury. In 2025, the commercial apartment complex received permits for an in-ground pool, signage and fire protection systems (valued at $2.1 million total) for the four-building, $20 million first phase on the south side of Oakridge Road.
The township issued occupancy permits in November for two of the buildings, with two more nearing completion.
Eventually, the 416-unit complex will have six total buildings, including two on the north side of Oakridge Road.
While new residential construction has slowed overall from a high of about 100 new homes a year, Apex Newbury represents a major source of new housing and provides options outside of the singlefamily homes and townhouses that have dominated the market in South Fayette.
"It adds a different element to the township with this large-scale apartment complex," Barrett said.
As of January, the taxable value of all commercial and residential real estate in South Fayette topped $1.72 billion.
Building Permits
The township Building and Code Department issues permits and conducts inspections to ensure projects are safely built to code.
In 2025, the department issued 351 building permits (two more than in 2024) valued at $63.1 million. The permits generated $155,000 in township fees.
A total of 43 commercial permits included one for new construction (Wembley Club); 38 for accessory features; three for alterations; and one addition (Intermediate School).
Pool Project
◀ Patrick and Heather LeViseur
added an in-ground pool, sun shelf, gazebo, fireplace, pavers, retaining walls, landscaping and other features to their home on Old Oakdale Road in South Fayette Township last spring.
A total of 308 residential building permits were issued (five more than the prior year), including 76 for new homes valued at $23.4 million. New homes— including 38 singlefamily houses and 38 townhouses—mostly were in planned developments such as Hastings, Stonegate and Newbury.
South Fayette residents performed the work: Jonathan Mehalic of Pristine Pools and Regis Schulz of American Groundskeeping.
Submitted photo
Homeowners spent $5.2 million on 208 accessory structures such as decks (70), fences (52), deck/patio roofs (26), sheds (14), detached garages and carports (9), rooftop solar panels (9), swimming pools/hot tubs (8) and retaining walls (5).
BUILDING PERMITS
2025 YEAR IN REVIEW
South Fayette Township
Looking Ahead
Bass Pro Shops recently switched developers for a $20 million, 99,000-square-foot Outdoor World recreation and sporting goods store at Newbury Market.
Barrett said Bass Pro has received development approvals from the township, as well as state environmental permits. The company still must complete the building permit process.
“Whenever Bass Pro is ready to start, we are ready for them,” he said.
The township also has approved plans for a 21,000-square-foot Tractor Supply at Newbury Market, but the store has yet to apply for a building permit.
Growing Seasons Landscaping plans a 9,600-square-foot contractor storage building at the former Desmet Lumber site on Millers Run Road.
Developer John Deklewa’s RDC DesignBuild plans a 76,000-square-foot flexibleuse building on 13 acres at Alpine Point. It is the fourth and final lot to be developed in the light industrial park on Alpine Road.
A shopping center, Lafayette 180, is planned on the former site of Foremost Auto at Route 50 and Newbury Drive.
The school district plans to build a new primary school for grades K–2 on the site of the current bus garage and maintenance building. Plans show a multi-story brick building, tennis courts, an athletic field, concession stands, playgrounds and storage buildings. Groundbreaking is anticipated
this spring, with construction lasting about 2 ½ years.
Relatedly, the school district plans to build a 20,500-square-foot maintenance and bus depot across from the middle school on the former Dimun property.
New home construction is expected to continue in Hastings, Stonegate, Newbury and Kevington.
Work has not begun on two townhouse plans—on Mayview Road, 32 duplex units, and at the Oakdale border, 34 townhomes on the South Fayette side of the Walkers Mill plan, along the Panhandle Trail.
Tax Incentive Program Updated
In January, the South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners approved updates to the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance Act ordinance and map.
This LERTA program provides temporary tax breaks as an incentive to develop commercial, business and industrial properties in certain deteriorated or hard-to-develop areas.
The updated map removes various
areas from the LERTA program and uniformly follows a five-year tax break schedule, rather than some properties having a 10-year schedule. Over five years, an eligible entity gradually pays more real estate taxes until paying 100% in the sixth year.
Barrett said the update restricts tax incentives to land that otherwise would be too expensive to develop due to lack of infrastructure or brownfield remediation. Once those types of properties are developed, the township no longer will need LERTA, he said.
“This is the first step in transitioning out of the LERTA program,” Barrett said.
“The thinking is we don’t need to sacrifice future tax revenue if development is inevitable anyway.”
Areas in the updated LERTA district include the former Campbell airport and adjacent land along the Southern Beltway; Alpine Point; Abele Business Park; and Newbury Market.
Barrett said commercial developments result in higher demand for municipal services and infrastructure, such as public safety and roads.
“These do take a toll on the budget,” he said, “so it makes sense for us to want to get our tax dollars sooner to provide these services.”
◀ Roots Natural Kitchen renovated the former Blaze Pizza space in The Gateway Shops at Newbury Market. (Photo by Andrea Iglar)
Township holds property tax rate for 2026
Police, public works, waste collection and capital projects are top expenses
By Andrea Iglar
South Fayette Township has adopted a $20.1 million budget for 2026 with no tax increase.
For the second year, the township real estate tax rate is 5.98 mills, or $598 per $100,000 in assessed property value.
For a home valued at $167,900—the median property value in South Fayette, according to Allegheny County—the township tax bill is $1,004 a year.
The township Board of Commissioners adopted the budget in December.
Township Manager
John M. Barrett said the spending plan aims to deliver high-quality services while supporting infrastructure improvements.
“This year’s budget reflects continued commitment to responsible spending and strategic investment in long-term priorities,” he said.
and Sturgeon fire departments, with responsibilities that cover emergency response, administrative oversight, training coordination and public outreach.
Capital Improvement Plan
More than $2.8 million will be transferred to the capital fund for road improvements, vehicle and equipment replacements, facility rehabilitation, park projects and
The township budget supports public services such as trash and recycling collection, police, public works, parks and recreation, fire/EMS, stormwater management, code enforcement, planning and zoning, building inspection, communications and more.
Top areas of spending are police, public works, capital expenses and third-party waste collection. Public Works includes snow removal, road and stormwater maintenance, park upkeep and more.
“The township’s core spending categories have grown in step with the service needs and expectations of our growing community,” Barrett said.
Contributions to the township’s four volunteer fire departments, and to South Fayette-based emergency medical service SouthBridge, total more than $853,000, including a new Fire Services Coordinator.
The full-time, paid position will serve as the liaison between the township and the Fairview, Oakridge, South Fayette
road materials and repairs; temporary bridge for Bridge Street; repairs to Cecil Reissing Road
• Public Works equipment for park, field and artificial turf upkeep; improvements to maintenance building at Fairview Park; two plow truck replacements; salt shed site improvements at Boys Home and Fairview parks
• Police gear; traffic and in-car cameras; e-bikes
• Traffic signal replacement at Washington Pike/Twin Ponds Lane
• Information technology needs
• Stormwater improvements
• At Fairview Park, completion of the ball field project, including lights; installation of artificial turf on two multipurpose fields; construction of a sidewalk from the Lafayette Pavilion to the splash pad along Recreation Road
• Design of a trailhead with amenities along Mayview Road
• Replacement of Morgan Park scoreboards
“These efforts position us to meet the immediate needs of our community and the broader opportunities ahead as South Fayette continues to grow,” Barrett said.
Revenues
more. Some work, particularly in the parks, is supported by grants and outside funding sources.
Capital improvements involve public assets such as infrastructure, facilities and equipment that have a useful life of at least 10 years.
Projects and purchases planned or considered in the 2026 capital improvement plan include:
• Rehabilitation of the former municipal offices, 515 Millers Run Road, to expand the library and enhance space for recreation programs and senior citizen activities
• Planning for updated Public Works facility on Millers Run Road
• Contracted road paving program;
In 2025, the township had adjusted the property tax rate for the first time in seven years, from 4.73 mills to 5.98 mills. The 2026 budget holds that millage rate.
In 2026, about half of the township’s revenue—more than $10 million—will come from real estate taxes, while earned income tax will generate about $5.6 million.
Over the past five years, property tax revenues have grown by 42% and earned income tax by 30%.
“This consistent revenue growth reflects continuing development and a steadily expanding tax base,” Barrett said.
“The upward trend has enabled us to expand and modernize facilities, invest in parks, and maintain the core services that residents rely upon.”
Details: southfayettepa.com/budget
HOW ARE TOWNSHIP TAX DOLLARS SPENT?
In the $20,126,474 South Fayette Township budget for 2026, the biggest areas of spending are police, public works, waste collection, and a transfer to a fund for capital projects, such as facility renovations, road paving, park improvements and equipment replacements. The spending plan also includes a newly created Fire Services Coordinator job to enhance public safety.
The South Fayette School District and Allegheny County have completely separate budgets, tax rates and services that they provide independently of the township (refer to page 20 for details).
Infographic by Andrea Iglar Percentages are rounded
LOCAL TAX BREAKDOWN
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 69% percent of a property owner's total real estate taxes paid.
The smallest proportion—15%— goes to the township government. The county's share is 16%.
Jordan Tax Service accepts tax payments for both the township and the school district, on behalf of the elected real estate tax collector. The Allegheny County Treasurer collects county taxes.
Elected officials for each entity independently set their annual property tax rate.
For 2026, the five-member Board of Commissioners held the tax rate for township government at 5.98 mills, or $598 per $100,000 in assessed value.
Allegheny County Council set the county rate at 6.43 mills.
The nine-member school board set the 2025–2026 tax rate for the public school district at 27.7 mills, or $2,770 per $100,000— reflecting a 1-mill increase over the prior fiscal year.
As of January, the total taxable real estate value in South Fayette was $1.72 billion—a $19.2 million increase over the prior year, according to county certified values.
—Text & infographic by Andrea Iglar
6,694
◀ HELPING HUNTERS
In October, seven 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. They were assisted by 43 volunteers, including Public Works employees. South Fayette Township Parks and Recreation holds the accessible hunt every fall.
Hunters and volunteers gather outside the Alpine Club after lunch Oct. 25. (Photo by Andrea Iglar) Emerald Sponsor
Haunted Harvest
South Fayette
SCHOOL DISTRICT
School district expands communications to South Fayette Connect
It is a pleasure to begin regularly providing content about South Fayette Township School District to the readers of South Fayette Connect magazine.
Our plan is to keep you informed about events and activities on campus across all grades, and to highlight the excellence and innovation with which our district has become synonymous.
We encourage you to follow the district’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram and X) and check out the news and Weekly Green Scene newsletter at southfayette.org for ongoing updates and recognition of our Lion learners and educators.
With Lion Pride, Jennifer Donovan
Director of Communications, South Fayette Township School District
Drone academy helps students take flight
By Jennifer Donovan
Over the past three years, the Fly Like A Girl (FLAG) Drone Academy has helped female students from South Fayette Township School District turn curiosity into certification.
For three of the district’s newest FAAlicensed drone pilots, the experience has been transformative both personally and professionally.
Safina Khilji, Morgan Dolence and Pranita Chakkingal are the students who most recently earned their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot licenses, joining a small and growing group of young women nationwide certified to operate drones commercially.
They participated in the 6-week academy, which combines FAA-approved flight practice with intensive classroom instruction covering airspace regulations, weather patterns, physics, sectional charts, safety protocols and drone mechanics.
Hosted on South Fayette’s campus, the program brings together students from school districts across southwestern Pennsylvania, with grant funding covering transportation and exam fees for eligible participants.
For junior Khilji, drone piloting aligned with her pursuit of aerospace engineering. She was drawn to how drones are used by the Air Force, Space Force and major companies, but she had no clear path to licensure before joining FLAG.
“I didn’t even know where to start,” she said. “FLAG gave me the guidance I was missing.”
Dolence's motivation came from her role as a junior firefighter with the South Fayette (Cuddy) Volunteer Fire Department. The sophomore saw drones as a practical tool for emergency response, capable of providing critical aerial perspectives during fires and other emergencies.
class in her schedule, studying consistently for months.
Just as impactful as the technical training was the learning environment itself. FLAG was designed as an all-female academy, offering a space where they felt supported, seen and encouraged.
“Being around girls who shared my interests helped me feel confident in a way I hadn’t before,” Khilji said. “FLAG helped me learn to trust myself—not just when flying a drone, but in everyday life.”
)Chakkingal echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of learning from female instructors and peers. Hearing firsthand stories from women working in aviation helped students envision themselves in careers where women are still underrepresented.
“It helped us realize we are capable of challenging the statistics,” she said.
The FLAG Drone Academy launched at the end of the 2022–23 school year with support
from a $70,000 Remake Learning Moonshot Grant funded by The Grable Foundation and the Benedum Foundation.
“The aerial view can be vital in saving lives, identifying hot spots and supporting firefighters on the ground,” she said.
Chakkingal, a senior, entered the academy with limited aviation knowledge but a curiosity sparked by flying remote-controlled helicopters at home. As the program progressed, that curiosity evolved into confidence.
“As I attended sessions, my interest kept increasing,” she said. “It was meaningful knowing I was breaking barriers and becoming part of the 8% of women and 3% of people of color among FAA-certified pilots.”
All three students described the FAA exam as the most challenging part of the experience.
Khilji treated the program like an additional
The impact of certification is evident. For example, Chakkingal has served as a drone videographer for school events and has presented at regional education conferences, using her license to showcase real-world applications of her skills.
“Piloting drones touches nearly every industry,” said Dr. Kristin Deichler, South Fayette’s assistant superintendent and one of the creators of the FLAG program.
“The FLAG Drone Academy is proud to have actually moved the needle on the number of certified female drone pilots,” Deichler said. “We hope to continue inspiring future pilots for years to come.”
Donovan is the school district's communications director.
Jennifer
▼ Morgan Dolence, left, Pranita Chakkingal and Safina Khilji
BEE-HAVIOR
Class connects coding with bee behavior
By Elise Simon
What's the buzz on coding?
Inspired by college-level programming models, South Fayette’s College-in-High-School Python class is embarking on a new coding project that explores bee behavior—expanding from straightforward coding to one with real environmental impact.
Students are using their coding abilities to branch into new subject areas, such as environmental science and public communication.
According to teacher Dawn McCullough, learning to solve problems in new contexts is a crucial skill in computer science. Plus, the students exercise creative thinking skills as they develop techniques to approach bee behavior while also producing environmental data.
winter’s cold, inactive climate and limited Wi-Fi accessibility outdoors. These issues have pushed students to collaborate and devise ways to manage the project outside of their regular school schedule.
With creative brainstorming, the class has evolved into a working team. Notably, junior Clair Cheng suggested incorporating cameras and artificial intelligence to track individual bees and population sizes.
The bee project lets students explore real-life applications of Python coding, generating data rather than relying on typical physical inspections of bee behavior. This approach supports the initiative to accurately communicate patterns of bee behavior that often are overlooked.
Students use small computers and microcontrollers, such as Arduino boards and Raspberry Pis, to study bee behavior. These devices record the information, process it and eventually can send it to other computers; they essentially act as the brains of the sensors.
The devices record metrics such as humidity, temperature and buzzing sounds so the students can understand their patterns. The recordings track behaviors such as when the bees leave the hive, how they communicate and how they respond as environmental conditions fluctuate.
Students will translate the data into tangible information and communicate the results to the public. The district is exploring partnerships with Penn State and Carnegie Mellon universities, using the South Fayette data to monitor hive activity and analyze bee health and production.
While successful, the project has faced adversities such as the
While the project is not yet complete, it already has shown that computer science can extend far beyond a traditional academic setting.
The school district has two bee hives, provided with support of a Moonshot Grant from Remake Learning and purchased from Bedillion Honey Farm in Washington County.
In addition to the high school coding course, teachers and students at all grade levels will have access to the hives to incorporate into instruction, from exploring how bees support ecosystems and food production, to career investigations and entrepreneurial projects such as making soap, candles and honeybased products.
Students will be encouraged to think like innovators, small business owners, data scientists and more—blending creativity, design and practical problemsolving.
Elise Simon is a junior at South Fayette High School.
▲
Dr. Matthew Callison, the school district's director of innovation and strategic partnerships, introduces bees to South Fayette High School coding students in the fall. (Photo: SFSD)
South Fayette Township Parks & Recreation
Winter & Spring 2026 Programs
Ongoing, Mondays @ 7 PM
Sturgeon Fire Hall
$12/class
Winter Speaker Series
Wed. Feb. 25 @ 6PM-7PM FREE
South Fayette Twp Municipal Ctr
Puzzle Palooza
Tues. March 17 @ 6:30 PM
South Fayette Township Municipal Ctr.
$5 per 2- to 6-person team
Ages 7 - Adult
Pickleball
Wednesdays, April 15-May 27
Morgan Park Courts
Cardio @ 8 AM-9AM
Beginner @ 9 AM-10 AM or 5 PM-6 PM
Advanced Beginner @ 9 AM-10 AM or 5 PM-6 PM
Intermediate @ 6 PM-7 PM
3 & Me Clinics @ 8 AM-9 AM or 4 PM-5 PM
League Play: 10 AM-11:30 AM
Prices vary per session
Mondays through May 18 @ 6 PM-7:15 PM
Ages 5-12
$90/month
Identity Theft, Frauds, and Scams
Winter Speaker Series
Wed. March 18 @ 6PM-7PM FREE
South Fayette Twp Municipal Ctr
March 18 - May 13
Ages 2-5
Fairview Park
Prices & times vary per age group
South Fayette Twp Municipal Ctr
Tuesdays, March 24-April 28
@ 6:30 PM-7:15 PM
$12 Drop In/$60 Class Pack
Ages 18+
South Fayette Twp Municipal Ctr
Youth Tennis
Saturdays, April 18-May 30
Fairview Park Tennis Courts
High School Age @ 8 AM-9:30AM
Beginner @ 9:30 AM-10:30 AM
Advanced Beginner @ 10:30 AM11:30 AM
Pee Wee @ 11:30 AM-12 PM
Prices vary per age group
$11 per AM or PM session
$5 - Early Care
$11 - AM or PM
$22 - All Day
$5 - Extended Day
Non-resident rates vary
MONDAY - FRIDAY
EARLY CARE: 8 AM-9 AM AM SESSION: 9 AM-11:30 AM PM SESSION: 12:30 PM-3 PM ALL-DAY SESSION: 9 AM-3 PM EXTENDED DAY: 3 PM-4:30 PM
HAUNTED NIGHTS & H LIDA LIGHTS
In October, more than 600 trick-or-treaters visited spooky booths, painted pumpkins and enjoyed fall fun at our first Haunted Harvest. In December at Joy-Thru Fairview, cars drove through Fairview Park to enjoy dazzling lights, cheerful performers and a smile with Santa. The lights remained on display throughout the holiday season.
VIDEO
Joy-Thru Fairview
Highlights
Photos by Daniel Thompson Photography
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/oversize item collection (2-item limit; does NOT include extra trash bags) is the 2nd full week of each month. If an observed holiday falls the week before your pickup day, collection is delayed one day.
Waste Management wm.com ◆ 1-800-866-4460
FEB
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
100 Township Drive, South Fayette PA 15017 Ph: 412-221-8700 Web: SouthFayettePA.com
Staff Directory
John M. Barrett, Township Manager
Administration
Vitali Alexandrov, Facilities Director
Patrick J. Catena, Assistant Manager
Joe Hollowood, IT Director
Arianna Lower, Executive Assistant
Shannen McKahan, Finance Officer
Amy O'Neill, Accounting Assistant
Peggy Patterson, Administrative Assistant
Planning, Building & Code
Gary Hartz, Planning/Zoning Director
Joe Niedermeyer, Building Code Official
Communications & Community Development
Andrea Iglar, Director
Parks & Recreation
Paula Willis, Director Ian McNeill, Recreation Coordinator
