Pittsburgh City Council

UPMC donates $10 million for new ambulances, with state adding $1 million grant.

Written by Amy Whipple

The Pittsburgh Emergency Medical Service (EMS) fleet is getting a $10 million shot in the arm from UPMC and another $1 million grant from the state.

Pittsburgh City Council is planning to hold a final vote to accept the money next week.

Chief of Staff Dan Gilman said during council’s Feb. 4 committees meeting that the one-time UPMC donation will be split between this year and 2027. He estimated that the city will be able to purchase eight or nine additional ambulances plus a new rescue unit. He said that he will be working with the bureau to determine the best use of the $5 million slated for 2027.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development awarded the $1 million grant to buy two ambulances at the end of last year. 

Gilman clarified that the UPMC donation is separate from ongoing conversations with the hospital chain and other local organizations about longer-term commitments and partnerships with the city.

Council Member Barb Warwick of Greenfield said, “The Pittsburgh taxpayers have ponied up, and I’m glad to see this process started with our large nonprofits.”

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