PITTSBURG — Pittsburg is taking a chapter from the past and reshaping the city into a regional hub by seizing opportunities in technology, energy, sports tourism and industrial redevelopment, the city’s mayor said.
A century ago, the city’s pioneers turned a community that thrived on fishing and canning into a coal-fueled era that helped build the local economy, said Mayor Jelani Killings.
Pittsburg eventually turned into an industrial city with the vision of Charles Appleton Hooper, dubbed the local “Father of Industry,” as he helped shape its economy, said Killings.
“The city’s early pioneers didn’t just wait for opportunity, they created, they took raw land and raw ambition and turned them into a thriving city of builders, workers and dreams,” said Killings during a state of the city address on Nov. 20. “I truly believe that the same spirit is alive in Pittsburg today, we are once again standing on the edge of transformation, turning the page to build our next chapter.”
Guided by five strategic focuses, including economic development, public infrastructure, and public safety, Killings said Pittsburg is positioning itself as a “regional powerhouse” for investment and innovation.
The opening of the Courtyard by Marriott on Center Drive and the construction of the new Hilton Home2 Suites, expected to be completed in 2026, signal investor confidence and will help the city support tourism and business travel, said Killings.
“I know for many these may just seem like hotels, but they are symbols of a city that is turning the corner, attracting investment and redefining how people see us,” said Killings. “So, the real question isn’t, why are they building hotels in Pittsburg? The real question is, how can we keep this momentum going?”
The city is also advancing in major economic infrastructure projects, such as the Pittsburg Technology Park, located at the now-defunct Delta View Golf Course, which will house a large-scale data center, positioning the city as a regional leader in innovation and technology, said Killings.
“The technology park will serve as a catalyst for secondary businesses such as technology suppliers, research, development and support industries that will choose to locate nearby this brand-new infrastructure,” added Killings.
The mayor also highlighted the importance of Pittsburg’s Power Company as a cornerstone of the city’s economic strategy, as it can help attract large, energy-intensive industrial businesses by providing competitive energy rates.
“Over 1,000 acres of underutilized industrial land are being repurposed and reimagined into a modern job center for advanced manufacturing, data, technology, clean energy, and logistics,” said Killings.
He also took pride in the city’s investment in sports tourism to spur local economic growth with the Pittsburg Dream Courts and Pittsburg Premier Fields, both slated to be opened in 2026.
“This is another example of how the city of Pittsburg is transforming into a true destination through intentional placemaking, the revitalization of our commercial corridors, and a strategic focus on our unique strengths,” said Killings.
The City Council is aware that economic growth cannot be sustained without public infrastructure, said Killings, adding that they go hand in hand to bring progress.
He noted that Pittsburg will continue to invest in roads and public spaces that connect neighborhoods, support local businesses, and help improve the quality of life for residents.
Infrastructure improvements, such as upgrades to Central Harbor Park, will showcase the beauty and vitality of Pittsburg’s waterfront for both residents and visitors, said Killings.
Killings said public safety and youth development also remain the city’s central priorities.
“We’re not moving away from our heritage. We’re leaning into it and building upon it,” said Killings. “We are turning the page towards a more dynamic and prosperous future with an economy that honors not only the past, but accelerates us towards where we are meant to be.”