In a remarkable turn of events, Pittsburgh's media landscape has experienced both a near-death experience and a resurrection within weeks. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, one of the oldest newspapers in the United States, was saved from closure after its owners announced its sale to a nonprofit foundation. The alternative Pittsburgh City Paper also returned under new ownership after being shut down earlier this year.
The Post-Gazette, which traces its roots to 1786, was set to close on May 3, which would have made Pittsburgh the largest US city without a daily newspaper. However, Block Communications, the owner, sold the paper to the Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism, which also runs The Baltimore Banner. The new owner plans to invest $30 million in both papers over five years.
The Pittsburgh City Paper, which learned of its closure on New Year's Day after 34 years, was bought by a new nonprofit of local investors. The former owner was also Block Communications. The editor, Ali Trachta, announced the revival on the outlet's website, writing, 'You thought we were dead and gone, didn't you?'
These developments are rare positive news for local journalism, which has seen widespread closures and layoffs. While challenges remain, the city's media outlets are now preparing for a new chapter. Other news sources, such as the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, are also expanding coverage in response to the changing landscape.
