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PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Date: September 24, 2026
Contact:
Tim Hindes
412-480-3614
tim@trailblazecreative.com
Beacon Communities Celebrates Grand Opening of The Standard on Fifth in Pittsburgh’s Uptown
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Marks Completion of Mixed-Income Residential Community Designed for a Diverse Range of Pittsburgh Residents
Downloadable high-resolution photos and videos are available here.
PITTSBURGH, PA – Beacon Communities celebrated the grand opening of The Standard on Fifth with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2120 Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Uptown neighborhood. The event brought together Beacon leadership, elected officials and project partners to mark the completion of the mixed-income residential community.
The Standard on Fifth was developed with a blend of incomes, careers and identities in mind, including essential healthcare workers and residents from all walks of life who live and work in the heart of Pittsburgh. More than 40 units at the property are leasing at affordable rents, directly addressing the critical need for diverse housing solutions.
“The Standard on Fifth embodies our commitment to build communities that support the needs of our neighborhoods and cities,” said Dara Kovel, CEO of Beacon Communities. “We are incredibly proud of our deep partnership with the City of Pittsburgh and the Housing Authority, and grateful for the support from our state partners. This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we align our efforts to create high-quality, sustainable and accessible housing that serves as a foundation for economic vitality and individual well-being.”
“Affordable housing is necessary for helping residents of Pennsylvania achieve their best quality of life,” said Robin Wiessmann, Executive Director and CEO of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. “When housing is readily available at various income levels, it brings families together, stabilizes communities and brings economic stimulus to a neighborhood. We know that The Standard will help Pittsburgh’s Uptown grow in vitality and aid its residents in achieving their fullest potential.”
The Standard on Fifth is another step forward toward creating a long-term, economically viable asset for Pittsburgh. The property’s amenities are designed to promote a vibrant and connected environment, elevating residents’ daily lives and creating a stronger sense of belonging.
“The opening of The Standard on Fifth is another step in investing in the growth and vibrancy of Uptown,” said Mayor Corey O’Connor. “This project is creating new opportunities for housing, jobs and community right here along one of our iconic main streets.”
“Equitable access to stable, affordable housing is the foundation of a healthy city,” said Caster D. Binion, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh. “With over 40 units leased at affordable rents, The Standard ensures that essential healthcare workers, working families and neighbors from all walks of life can afford to live in the city they contribute to every day. By prioritizing community engagement and resident voice, we shape development citywide to directly align with true community needs.”
A catalyst for urban renewal, The Standard on Fifth is part of Beacon’s broader work revitalizing Pittsburgh through building innovative residential communities. With eight properties in the region and three more in development, Beacon continues to focus on projects that enhance residents’ lives while preserving the character of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and historic architecture. The project reflects the belief that housing is integral to building strong communities, and that equitable access to stable housing strengthens the region’s workforce and families.
“Thank you to Beacon Communities and Uptown Partners for sharing our commitment to ensuring that Pittsburghers have access to quality, affordable homes,” said Quianna Wasler, Chief Housing Officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh. “By aligning new housing opportunities with key employment, transit and cultural hubs, this project creates a vibrant neighborhood asset that contributes to Pittsburgh’s long-term economic stability.”
Applications for The Standard on Fifth are now open for interested individuals. To learn more, please visit livethestandardapts.com.
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About Beacon Communities LLC
Beacon Communities LLC is a privately owned real estate firm that develops, acquires, invests in, and manages a wide range of multi-family housing. Their portfolio includes affordable housing, market-rate housing, and mixed income-housing. Their developments range from new construction to historic adaptive reuse to the renovation of existing housing. They take on challenging developments and make them succeed. Their driving passion is to create well-designed, healthy homes that enhance the neighborhoods in which they are located. For more information about Beacon Communities LLC, please visit www.beaconcommunitiesllc.com
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