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The governing edition
Post-Gazette Benchmarks Editor W elcome to the Governing edition of PG Benchmarks, the project that compares metropolitan Pittsburgh to 14 regions of similar size.We hope you take the time to absorb today’s section, produced on the eve of an historic change in the way Allegheny County is governed.The highlight is a blockbuster Round Table Discussion, as county executive candidates Jim Roddey and Dr. Cyril Wecht join Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Murphy, Allegheny County Commissioner Bob Cranmer and state Senator Jack Wagner .Punctuated by both humor and contention, this unusually candid look at local government and the future of this region is must reading for citizens of Western Pennsylvania at this critical time of new vision, leadership and opportunity. You’ll find Dan Fitzpatrick’s reports on road quality and an index measurement of good government practices, which looks at a basket of public services and how well they are performed in the PG Benchmarks regions. Environment reporter Don Hopey takes an in-depth look at efforts to revive decaying local parks through the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. Transportation writer Joe Grata gives his annual report on the cost of owning and operating a car. Other benchmark measures include bond ratings, airport strength, commuting time and public transit. Finally, take a moment to look at our call for ideas and plans on how to make Oakland the best place that it can be. We are inaugurating a competition for these thoughts and visions, the results of which will be published in our end-of-the-year section. In this issue of PG Benchmarks: Round Table Discussion: The new top man Conservancy aiming to repair tattered parks Pittsburgh less costly for cars Fulfilling the promise of Oakland
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