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Pittsburgh City Council

Challenged Historic Designation for Former Gay Bar to Receive Public Hearing.

Written by Amy Whipple

  • Donny’s Place operated from 1972 to 2022 and served as an outreach center during the AIDS crisis.
  • If approved, the Polish Hill site would become Pittsburgh’s first LGBTQ+ historic landmark.
  • The estate of the late owner, Donald Thinnes, opposes the nomination; Thinnes entered a 2019 sales agreement to develop the property into townhouses.
  • The Planning Commission voted against the nomination, citing lack of owner support, fire damage, and testimony that the bar was not unique.
  • The historic designation is sought by two Polish Hill residents and Preservation Pittsburgh.
  • The date for the public hearing has yet to be scheduled.

Connections to this story

Topics:
Housing & Land Use
Governments:
Pittsburgh City Council
Public meetings:
City Council · April 22, 2025

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