East McKeesport

East McKeesport is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, approximately 10 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. The borough is situated near the Monongahela River and is part of the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area. East McKeesport is bordered by the boroughs of North Versailles Township and Wilmerding, as well as the city of McKeesport. The area is also close to the Youghiogheny River Trail and the Great Allegheny Passage.

Geography

The geography of East McKeesport is characterized by its location in the Allegheny Plateau region, with the Monongahela River flowing nearby. The borough's terrain is a mix of flat and hilly areas, with elevations ranging from approximately 700 to 1,000 feet above sea level. East McKeesport is situated near the Pittsburgh Low Plateau, which is a region of low-lying hills and valleys. The area is also close to the Laurel Highlands, a region known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including Ohiopyle State Park and Fallingwater. The borough's proximity to the Youghiogheny River and the Monongahela River makes it an attractive location for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby attractions including Kennywood, Sandcastle Water Park, and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.

History

The history of East McKeesport dates back to the late 19th century, when the area was primarily agricultural and rural. The borough was officially incorporated in 1895, and its early development was influenced by the nearby city of McKeesport and the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad. The area's history is also tied to the Industrial Revolution, with the nearby Homestead Strike and the Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh playing significant roles in the labor movement. East McKeesport's history is also connected to notable figures such as Andrew Carnegie, Henry Clay Frick, and Mary Harris Jones, who were all involved in the region's industrial and labor history. The borough's proximity to the Battle of the Monongahela and the French and Indian War also makes it an important location for historical study, with nearby attractions including the Senator John Heinz History Center and the Fort Ligonier.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the demographics of East McKeesport show a population of approximately 2,100 people, with a mix of ages, ethnicities, and income levels. The borough's population is predominantly White American, with smaller percentages of African American, Asian American, and Hispanic and Latino American residents. The median household income in East McKeesport is around $40,000, with a range of occupations represented, including University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University employees, as well as workers in the healthcare and manufacturing industries. The borough's demographics are also influenced by its proximity to nearby cities, including Pittsburgh, McKeesport, and Monroeville, as well as the surrounding townships of North Versailles Township and Penn Township.

Economy

The economy of East McKeesport is diverse, with a range of industries represented, including healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The borough is home to several small businesses, including restaurants, shops, and services, as well as larger employers such as the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and the Westinghouse Electric Company. The area's economy is also influenced by its proximity to nearby cities, including Pittsburgh, McKeesport, and Monroeville, as well as the surrounding townships of North Versailles Township and Penn Township. The borough's economy is also tied to the Pittsburgh International Airport and the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, which attract visitors and businesses to the region. Nearby attractions, such as Kennywood and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, also contribute to the local economy.

Education

The education system in East McKeesport is served by the East Allegheny School District, which operates several schools in the area, including East Allegheny High School and Logan Middle School. The borough is also close to several institutions of higher education, including the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Community College of Allegheny County. The area's education system is also influenced by its proximity to nearby cities, including Pittsburgh, McKeesport, and Monroeville, as well as the surrounding townships of North Versailles Township and Penn Township. The borough's students also have access to nearby libraries, including the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and the Senator John Heinz History Center.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure of East McKeesport includes a range of roads, highways, and public transportation options. The borough is accessible via US Route 30 and Pennsylvania Route 48, and is also close to the Pittsburgh International Airport and the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The area's public transportation system is operated by the Port Authority of Allegheny County, which provides bus service to nearby cities, including Pittsburgh, McKeesport, and Monroeville. The borough's infrastructure is also influenced by its proximity to nearby attractions, including Kennywood, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, and the Sandcastle Water Park. The area's infrastructure is also tied to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail and the Great Allegheny Passage, which provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and transportation. Nearby institutions, such as the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, also contribute to the local infrastructure, with facilities such as the Petersen Events Center and the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.