Demolition underway at Wholey’s, redevelopment pushes forward

PITTSBURGH — It’s the end of an era for a beloved and historic building in the Strip.

Early demolition efforts are underway inside the well-known Wholey Building.

Developers say they have big plans in the works.

Savor the signage because before you know it, that big, luminous fish will be no more.

Developers are moving full steam ahead with plans to level the New Federal Cold Storage Building or, to many of us, the Wholey Building.

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Crews have been hard at work disassembling the interior.

They are making way for the new 1501 Penn office tower.

New York-based Acram Group will build the 23 story structure.

The project will cost $200 million and offer upwards to 550,000 square feet of office space, amenities, retail and parking.

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WPXI STRIP DISTRICT TOWER Early demolition efforts are underway inside the well-known Wholey Building. (Acram Grou)

People have mixed feelings about the project.

“I think they should be investing in downtown more. Other than that, there’s no department stores left in town. There’s no reason to go to town except to eat,” said Mary Tolomeo from Bloomfield.

“If it’s progress and it’s helping the city, I believe it’s a good thing. Progress is always good,” said Dan Bell of Mt. Lebanon.

Total demolition is set to happen sometime in 2021. An official date hasn’t been announced.

Pittsburgh mayor not happy with proposed design of tower to replace iconic ‘Wholey building’ Pittsburgh mayor not happy with proposed design of tower to replace iconic ‘Wholey building’

Cox Media Group