Shapiro Administration Launches 2025 Urban Agriculture Tour in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Launches 2025 Urban Agriculture Tour with State Leaders

In a significant move to boost urban agriculture, Pittsburgh's Bidwell Training Center has launched a high-tech greenhouse expansion as part of the Shapiro Administration's 2025 Urban Agriculture Tour. This initiative, supported by the Agricultural Innovation Grant, aims to provide urban students with valuable training in culinary and horticulture careers.

This initiative marks the beginning of a statewide tour led by Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, Education Secretary Dr. Carrie Rowe, and Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger. "Feeding opportunities for growth and economic prosperity in urban neighborhoods feeds all of our futures," stated Secretary Redding, emphasizing the administration's commitment to improving the quality of life by ensuring access to fresh, healthy food.

The Bidwell Training Center's greenhouse expansion is part of a larger $10 million investment announced by Governor Josh Shapiro to enhance agricultural technologies across Pennsylvania. This pioneering effort supports 88 agricultural businesses in 46 counties, fostering innovation and workforce development.

Dr. Carrie Rowe highlighted the educational impact of urban agriculture, stating, "At places like Bidwell, learners are doing more than just growing food; they’re growing careers, confidence, and communities." Similarly, DCED Secretary Rick Siger pointed out that such investments not only create jobs but also provide essential access to fresh food in underserved areas.

In addition to the Agricultural Innovation grants, Pennsylvania has invested over $3.2 million in urban agriculture through the Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grants program. This initiative addresses challenges in city neighborhoods, including those in Pittsburgh, by funding projects like greenhouses, energy systems, and tools for community growth.

Organizations like Grow Pittsburgh have benefited from these grants, receiving $157,000 in prior funding to enhance their urban farming capabilities. State Representative Emily Kinkead emphasized the broader impact of these investments, noting that they are "about growing opportunity and equity for the next generation of Pennsylvania farmers."

Governor Shapiro's 2025-26 budget proposal further supports these efforts with additional funding to maintain Pennsylvania's leadership in agriculture. Proposed investments include $13 million for the Ag Innovation Grant Program and $4 million increases for programs connecting Pennsylvanians with healthy, local food.

Learn more about Governor Josh Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy and the proposed budget investments at shapirobudget.pa.gov.