PITTSBURGH – Heritage Community Transportation (HCT) has been a vital part of the County’s transportation sector for a quarter-century, providing convenient and affordable services that have resulted in over 1.6 million rides across 16 communities in Eastern Allegheny County. During its 25th anniversary reception on July 16, the nonprofit organization announced new amenities and plans to better serve riders now and in the future—and still for 25 cents a ride.
The milestone event was held at 800 Braddock Avenue, the future headquarters of Heritage Community Initiatives, HCT’s parent organization. U.S. Congresswoman Summer Lee and County Executive Sara Innamorato presented proclamations, and nearly 100 business and industry leaders also enjoyed a “Wheels on the Bus” performance by students from Heritage’s Education Programs.
Molly B. Allwein, Vice President of Heritage Transportation Services, remarked, “Our services today demonstrate our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of riders and communities. We are privileged to get riders where they need to go, whether to work, shopping, healthcare, or connect to regional transportation providers, and we are excited about the new amenities that will enhance their experience.”
Commuters can look forward to HCT’s newly branded and outfitted vehicles, updated weekday, holiday, and Saturday schedules, including the return of Saturday service on the East Pittsburgh Route, free Wi-Fi, flag stops, automated audio announcements, more tracking and accessibility features, and a new app. HCT operates three routes with 81 stops—East Pittsburgh, McKeesport, and Monroeville. Most riders (60%) rely on HCT for daily work commutes.
HCT emphasized its data- and results-driven approach. It conducted a two-year analysis with Carnegie Mellon University, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, Pittsburgh Regional Transit, and national consultants to identify and respond to changing mobility patterns in the region.
During the proclamation ceremony, Congresswoman Lee remarked, “Today, we celebrate a quarter-century of Heritage Community Transportation’s unwavering commitment to our community. This organization, the only human services nonprofit in the Commonwealth designated by PennDOT as a public transportation provider, has been a lifeline for low-income individuals and families in Eastern Allegheny County. With 70% of their riders having an average annual household income of under $20,000, HCT’s fixed-route transit service is more than just transportation; it’s a vital connection to opportunity and independence to those who need it most. Charging just 25 cents—less than a piece of candy—per ride, HCT ensures that transportation remains accessible and affordable for everyone. I am proud to support them as they continue to innovate and enhance their services to better meet the needs of our community.”
HCT also announced upcoming nonprofit collaborations with Auberle and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Through its courtesy card program, HCT will provide three months of free rides for clients who live, work, or access services in the communities it serves. This initiative follows its success with other human services providers including the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program.
Looking forward, Heritage has announced that it has reestablished its non-public transportation division. The objective is to address the growing demand for transportation services in the nonprofit sector. Before the pandemic, Heritage provided micro-transit solutions for organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, United Way, and others.
About Heritage Community Initiatives
For over 40 years, Heritage Community Initiatives has been committed to positively impacting the socioeconomic mobility of those they are privileged to serve throughout 49 communities in eastern Allegheny County. Their distinctive combination of the highest-quality Transportation, Education and Nutrition programs allows Heritage to be uniquely positioned to continue its long-standing mission for thousands of under-resourced individuals, families and children in affordable and measurably impactful ways. For more information visit heritageserves.org.
