Group teams have questions on Amazon Bringing Distribution Middle to Lawrenceville – CBS Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Amazon plans to bring a distribution center to Lawrenceville in the old Sears outlet building.

Some community groups are concerned about Amazon’s impact on Lawrenceville.

The coronavirus pandemic has meant big business for Amazon as shoppers stay at home and shop online. The company expands and brings a last mile warehouse for local deliveries to Pittsburgh. It took some by surprise.

(Photo credit: KDKA)

“We’re still processing the news and trying to wait for more information,” said David Breingan, executive director of Lawrenceville United. “We know as much as we do on the news.”

Community groups had already negotiated with another high-tech developer who promised neighborhood improvements for the former Sears property, including traffic control and a river. Now there are fears that Amazon will abandon those plans.

“We spent a lot of time on the previous proposal for the website and negotiating the benefits to the community,” said Breingan. “Everything from public access to the riverside to improving public infrastructure.”

But Amazon seems to be listening. In a statement, the company Paul Martino from KDKA announced that:

Amazon strives to be a great neighbor.

We always work with local managers before we start.

(We) make sure that our website doesn’t disturb the community.

(Amazon) staggers breaks to avoid rush hour.

(Amazon) works directly with our delivery partners, neighbors, and other stakeholders to help manage traffic.

We are very excited to join the community and create great jobs.

“We want to make sure that local recruitment is a priority and that some of our disadvantaged residents get the first crack at all available jobs,” Breingan said.

A meeting between Amazon and the community groups is planned for next week.