Pittsburgh City Council today tentatively approved the historic designation of the Paramount Building, at 1727 Boulevard of the Allies.

"The community has spoken very loudly around this," said Councilman R. Daniel Lavelle, who represents the Uptown area in which the building sits. "There's actually a developer who is willing to come to the table, even with the historic designation.

"I think it's OK to designate this historic, because I think it would be a benefit to the community."

The building is owned by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, which has opposed historic designation. The designation mandates an approval process prior to external changes or demolition.

Only Councilman Ricky Burgess voted against the designation. A final vote is expected Tuesday.

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