City Cast Pittsburgh

It's been an explosive week for Pittsburgh. Executive producer Mallory Falk, producer Sophia Lo, and contributor and City Paper managing editor Colin Williams share what to know about the cyclosporasis cases in Allegheny County, the cooked veggie dishes you should be eating instead of summer salads, and what to do if you think you might have this parasitic infection. Plus, we discuss whether the Commercial Street Bridge demolition looked as cool as we expected and whether the traffic disruptions live up to the doomsday predictions. Finally, we talk about another taproom closure, a new pool opening, and leadership changes at the Allegheny County Jail and Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire.

And if you've been hooked on the Commercial Street Bridge livestream, tune in for our members-only segment, where we recommend a few more Pittsburgh-area livestreams worth checking out.

Notes and references from today’s show:

We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card—and City Cast City swag.

Have thoughts about Family Swim or other chaperone policies in the city? Call or text our KIDS IN PUBLIC hotline at 412-212-8893.

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Pennsylvania's facing some big questions. Should we legalize cannabis? Regulate data centers and skill games? Raise the minimum wage? If you were hoping our new state budget might tackle these issues…you're in for some disappointment. SpotlightPA's Stephen Caruso joins executive producer Mallory Falk to explain what is and isn't in the freshly-adopted $50.8 billion budget and whether we might still see movement on some of the state's most pressing policy questions.

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If you're out in this heatwave, don't forget to hydrate — and make a stop at a local ice cream shop! Host Megan Harris is with City Cast contributor and Post-Gazette dining critic Hal B. Klein, who's sharing his favorite spots to get a scoop. From gelato made with real Italian pistachio paste to a seasonal corn custard, Hal's got a recommendation for everyone. Plus, he takes a little detour to explain why Texas de Brazil is worth a visit this summer.

Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, July 15th episode:

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Walmart wants to turn the former Bloomfield Rite Aid into a delivery hub, the Steelers are replacing a ton of seats at Acrisure Stadium (and making some interesting aesthetic choices in the process), and the notorious owner of Pittsburgh Mills mall is taking over a Downtown centerpiece. Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk break down the latest development news, with help from contributor and City Paper managing editor Colin Williams.

Then former newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco joins the show for a new segment rounding up the events we're most excited to check out this week, from a tattoo mini-convention to a new store that sells books by the pound.

Notes and references from today’s show:

Know what's happening with the former Rite Aid in Squirrel Hill? Call or text our USED-TO-BE-A-RITE-AID hotline at 412-212-8893.

Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, July 14th episode:

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Trace Brewing in Bloomfield has been both dishing and taking a lot of heat online. About a week ago, they announced on Instagram that the brewery is pausing indoor drag shows and DJ sets because some of their neighbors are “racist and homophobic” and have been weaponizing a PA law that's led to armed state police at some events. Meanwhile, Neighbors of Trace say this is about the noise and mess along and beyond Graffiti Alley — and that before Trace opened, the owner promised not to hold events with amplified sound outside. Host Megan Harris is bringing questions about safe spaces, amusement permits, and more to Aadam Soorma, Trace's head of marketing and guest experience.

Notes and references from today’s show:

Want to share your perspective? Call or text us at 412-212-8893.

Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, July 13th episode:

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There’s lots to love about Pittsburgh, but being able to get in and out of it easily and cheaply can be an underrated metric of its livability. Accommodating, accessible, and affordable local airports are a specific resource that many cities need. To find out which cities are leading the charge and the kinds of amenities that elevate an airport to gold status, City Cast CEO David Plotz chats with Scott Keyes, founder and Chief Flight Expert of Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) about everything he’s seen in his work and travels. How does your airport stack up?

Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! 

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Part of the Parkway East is closing tonight so PennDot can explode the old Commercial Street Bridge and slide a new one in its place. Traffic will be a nightmare and "demons shall walk the earth," but at least we can watch it on a live stream! Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor and City Paper managing editor Colin Williams explain how, exactly, you move a giant bridge, share what snacks we'd bring to a demolition viewing party, and warn you about even more road closures up I-79. Then Colin gets his soapbox moment about why more Western PA municipalities should consider consolidating. Finally, we dig into the controversy over a Pride display at the Monroeville Public Library and celebrate 'The Pitt' getting more Emmy noms than any other show this season.

And in today's members-only bonus segment, we're sending off our incredible senior newsletter editor, Francesca Dabecco. 

Notes and references from today’s show:

What Pittsburgh stories should Megan take nationwide? Call or text us YOUR CITY COULD BE BETTER Hotline at  412-212-8893.

Learn more about the sponsor of this Friday, July 10th episode:

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Kroger may have just bought Giant Eagle, but this isn't the first time these two brands have been intertwined. Host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo are sharing what we know so far about the Giant Eagle sale, more changes coming to our region's grocery store scene, and what to look forward to during Picklesburgh even if you're not a fan of pickles. Plus, Megan talks with Marcus Shoffner, the president and CEO of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition, about how you can take advantage of free outdoor activities for complete beginners. (Think mountain biking, mushroom hiking, birding and disc golf!)

Notes and references from today’s show:

Learn more about the sponsor of this Thursday, July 9th episode:

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There's never a bad time for a spa day, and if you're in need of a pick-me-up, we want you to treat yourself! The City Cast Pittsburgh team is rounding up some of the treatments we've tried around the city and planning our next self-care splurges. We're talking about mud wraps, massages, saunas, facials, LED red light therapy, and more. 

Did we miss your favorite spa treatment? Swear by LED therapy? Let us know how you relax! Call or text the SPA DAY HOTLINE at 412-212-8893.

**This episode originally published on February 12, 2026.

Learn more about the sponsor of this Wednesday, July 8th episode:

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Can you actually get a good bagel in Pittsburgh? The City Cast Pittsburgh team is on the case. We taste tested offerings from some of the most recommended brick-and-mortar spots: Pigeon Bagels, Balena Bagels, Three Brothers Bagels, Phat Bagel, and Burgh's Bagels. We share which bagels have the best texture, are the most flavorful, and meet producer Sophia Lo's strict criteria for "all around" seasoning. Plus, we spread the word about our absolute favorite cream cheese.

Your turn! Do you agree with our picks? What are your favorite bagel spots? Call or text us our Bagel Hotline to share your hot takes: 412-212-8893.

**This episode originally published on July 7, 2026.

Learn more about the sponsor of this Tuesday, July 7th episode:

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