Peduto names new Pittsburgh planning director

Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto on Monday promoted Andrew Dash to director of the Department of City Planning.

Dash, 39, of the city’s Manchester neighborhood, had served as acting director since June 2019 following the resignation of Director Ray Gastil, who left for a job at Carnegie Mellon University. Dash’s appointment is subject to City Council approval.

The planning director’s salary in 2020 is $111,379, according to the city’s operating budget.

Dash began his career as a city planner in Akron. Pittsburgh hired him as a senior planner in 2008 and he was promoted to assistant director in 2014. He has bachelor’s degree in geography and planning from the University of Akron.

As acting director, Dash led the department in developing the neighborhood planning program, creating the city’s Public Engagement Guide, continuing permit and zoning review and establishing virtual planning board and commission meetings during the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’m honored to lead this department and the talented staff that we have as we plan for a sustainable and equitable future at such an important moment in Pittsburgh’s history,” Dash said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing to learn from Pittsburghers to help create a resilient city where development benefits the City and our neighborhoods and equitably works for all residents.”