The planning commission of Pittsburgh was established in 1911, following the successful formation of the Pittsburgh Civic Commission (see job 03642). A year later the eight board members reached out to Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to consult on “Pittsburgh’s special needs and possibilities.”
The planning commission of Pittsburgh was established in 1911, following the successful formation of the Pittsburgh Civic Commission (see job 03642). A year later the eight board members reached out to Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to consult on “Pittsburgh’s special needs and possibilities.” Having already completed a comprehensive survey of the city, Olmsted Jr. provided insight on the organization and role of the commission, suggesting they “coordinate the planning activities of the various local authorities ” and that “the people of the City, whether in public or private life, should be induced to form the habit of informing the Commission of their ideas for improvement.” [Department of City Planning to Frederick Law Olmsted Jr._1912-07-29_LOC-OAR_03463-im.10] [Frederick Law Olmsted to J.D. Hailman_1912-12-10_LOC-OAR_03463-im.29].