Who We Are

Aiming to inspire the neighborhood, community & Business District.

The Squirrel Hill Business District, spanning the Forbes, Murray and Forward Avenue corridors, has remained one of Pittsburgh’s most vibrant and resilient business communities through decades of economic change. Known for its strong neighborhood identity and locally owned businesses, the district continues to thrive because of the people and partnerships that support it.

Our history

Three decades of merchants working together

The collaboration and community spirit that started decades ago continues today.

  1. Late 1980s & early 1990s

    Then-City Councilman Bob O'Connor brought together local business owners, Public Safety, Public Works, the Mayor’s Office and community organizations to improve communication and make city services more accessible to merchants. The initiative grew organically through his hands-on, community-focused approach and regular conversations with those who lived and worked in Squirrel Hill.

  2. 1992

    That grassroots task force officially became the Squirrel Hill Business and Professional Association, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization created to provide structure and long-term support for the district. Monthly meetings connected merchants with city departments, public safety officials, transit representatives, libraries, community organizations and other neighborhood partners to address issues and strengthen the business community.

  3. 2014

    Re-energized as Uncover Squirrel Hill, the organization set out to capitalize on its rich history by invigorating the formal network of businesses in the Forbes, Murray and Forward Avenue corridor, and eventually throughout Squirrel Hill. It gives a voice to business owners and provides access and communication to the Mayor’s Office, with representatives from Police, the Office of Community Affairs and Public Works.

  4. Today

    As a business-member-based organization, Uncover Squirrel Hill aims to bring the diverse merchant base together to meet goals and plans developed by its member businesses. We’re grateful to the many leaders, businesses and neighbors who have helped shape Squirrel Hill over the years, including the continued support of Mayor Corey O'Connor, who carries forward the commitment to keeping Squirrel Hill connected, welcoming and thriving.

Our members

The businesses that make Squirrel Hill

44member businesses along Forbes, Murray and Forward Avenues

From family restaurants and bookstores to banks, studios and community organizations, our members are the reason people come to Squirrel Hill and keep coming back.

Restaurants & Dining 11Community Services 6Banking 4Book & Game Stores 3Shopping 3Fashion 3Flowers & Gifts 3Fitness, Health & Wellness 3Real Estate 3Professional Services 3Education 2

Thank you to our Sponsor members

Sponsors co-sponsor the Night Markets and Wine Walks that bring the neighborhood together.

  • KeyBank
  • Furbes Ave Pet Supply
  • Little's Shoes
  • Sunburst School of Music
  • Brandywine Communities
  • Mozart Management
  • Marvista Design + Build

Our mission

Working together, we

Organize the merchants to develop and maintain a highly visible role in the community.
Work with local community leaders to ensure the development and continued improvement of the neighborhood business district.
Open and maintain lines of communication with business and property owners.
Organize and secure funds to help meet the Association’s vision and goals.

Join the merchants of Squirrel Hill

Membership is good for your business and good for the neighborhood. See the levels and what each one includes.