MAYOR’ S
Corner
TOM MAGLICCO
Dear Friends and Neighbors, cKeesport
CITY OF MCKEESPORT NEWS
As we celebrate another summer in McKeesport, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to be part of a community with such a rich history and a promising future.
The nation is celebrating its 250th birthday, and McKeesport isn’ t far behind – having marked 230 years since the city’ s founding last fall. These milestones give us an opportunity to reflect on the generations of hardworking people who built our city, strengthened our neighborhoods, and helped shape the character that continues to define McKeesport today … It’ s 231 years of history in the making.
Since its establishment in 1795, McKeesport has grown from a small settlement into a city with a rich industrial past, strong neighborhoods, and generations of families who have called it home.
The McKee family lay the groundwork for McKeesport in 1795 – naming the land around the family ' s cabin at the confluence of the Monongahela and Youghiogheny rivers as McKee ' s Port. Part of Versailles Township, the settlement grew throughout the early 1800s, and McKeesport was incorporated as a borough on September 3, 1842. The community ' s first school house had opened in 1832, and the first steel mill would be introduced to the landscape in 1851. On January 15, 1891, McKeesport was incorporated as a city. Today, McKeesport officials are looking to redefine the region, and they look forward to this city the hub of the Mon Valley once again. Investments are being made in infrastructure, public safety, and economic development to secure a successful future.
The pages of this magazine capture many of the events, accomplishments, and memories that have brought our community together over the past few months. From neighborhood gatherings and volunteer efforts to performances, celebrations, and civic projects, these moments tell the story of a city that remains resilient, proud, and connected.
As we look ahead, there is plenty to enjoy during our summer recreation season. Residents and visitors can take part in the free Summer Concert Series at the Lions Bandshell in Renzie Park, youth sports clinics, and festivals such as the Renzie Rib Fest and International Village.
You may have heard that International Village is getting a change of venue this year. We are relocating everyone’ s favorite heritage festival to Jimmy Long and Dom Schettino fields just across the park. And thanks to our sponsors at U. S. Steel, Pennsylvania American Water, and UPMC, admission to the Village will be free. As always, I’ d like to thank the Allegheny Regional Asset District for helping us host the concerts, festivals, family activities, fireworks, and many other events that showcase the spirit of McKeesport for the whole Mon Valley to enjoy. These traditions provide opportunities to gather with friends and neighbors, support local organizations, and create lasting memories for everyone.
Thank you for your continued support, your community pride, and your commitment to our city. Together, we honor our past, celebrate our present, and build an even brighter future for generations to come.
I look forward to seeing you throughout the summer.
24 MCKEESPORT AREA