WORK, SHOP, PLAY, OR RELAX IN this historic town with a cool vibe.
In 1977, when the Westmoreland Mall opened in Greensburg, the town changed irreversibly. National retail stores that once populated the downtown shopping area took up residence in the new mall, and smaller businesses were left to support and build a growing community. Today, more than 30 years later, new small businesses are flourishing and helping to bring the bustle back to downtown.
“The experiences available within the city’s Main Street District include shopping, dining, entertainment, appreciation of visual art, and social interaction with family, friends, and neighbors,” says Steve Gifford, Executive Director of the Greensburg Community Development Corporation. He credits the continuing vibrancy of the community to the cultural district of Greensburg, and long-standing institutions like the Palace Theater, Robertshaw Amphitheater in St. Clair Park, and the Westmoreland Museum of American Art. “Potential visitors should know about the plays and performances at the state-of-the-art recital hall at Seton Hill University, and they should know about the events going on at the Palace Theater, and all of the great eateries we have in downtown,” says city administrator Sue Trout.
But it’s not just the plays, concerts, art exhibits, and shows that are driving traffic to town. “The blend of long-time specialty gift shops and restaurants has resulted in a collection of businesses that makes the Shopping District a destination worth exploring for a few hours,” Gifford says.
Greensburg, named after Nathanael Greene, a major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, is located only 55 minutes southeast of Downtown Pittsburgh. In 2007, U.S. News & World Report ranked Greensburg as one of the “Best Places to Retire” in Pennsylvania, but the town is welcoming a younger set too — and drawing them to town with a fresh influx of restaurants, shops,
and productions.
“Within the past three years, downtown has welcomed five new restaurants, each possessing characteristics and menus that set them apart from the national chains along Route 30,” Gifford says. “Outdoor patios are valuable dining space when the weather is nice, and the public’s desire for a menu containing local
and seasonal ingredients is satisfied by a farm-to-table menu at two downtown locations.”
One of our favorites, The Supper Club, is in the old train station, which has been transformed into a swanky spot perfect for the lunchtime commuter or a couple looking for a night out on the town. The repurposing of old Greensburg buildings to house hot new spots and businesses is just one way the town is continually reinventing itself. “Over the past 15 years, many new businesses have moved into the downtown. In addition to these businesses, several commercial buildings have been converted into the residential apartments for undergrad, grad, and general public to rent,” Gifford says. “We have instituted a Historic and Architectural Review Board (HARB) to encourage and maintain buildings to their historic roots and look,” Trout explains. “We also offer façade grants to businesses to foster development.”
If you’re a resident of Greensburg, you’ve probably noticed that the population of the city nearly doubles during working hours, as students and an ever-growing workforce hustle in daily. “We are proud to state that Seton Hill University, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at Seton Hill, and Excela Westmoreland Hospital are located within the city. Just outside of the city limits is the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg,” Gifford says. “When Pittsburgh planning and economic development professionals talk about the importance of “Eds and Meds” to the region, the city of Greensburg is no different. Our educational and health service providers are high-quality institutions that complement the role of the small entrepreneurs within the Main Street District and the Westmoreland
County Courthouse.”
The role the universities play in an ever-growing Greensburg is also tangible to those in local government. “We are the County Seat and one of the most thriving Third Class Cities in Western Pennsylvania,” Trout says. “Our increasing partnerships with Seton Hill University have created a whole new student population.” As the population surges, new residents are finding that Greensburg offers a wealth of affordable real estate. “Greensburg offers all kinds of neighborhoods: the walkable neighborhood, the suburban design, and condominium living,” says city planning director Barbara Ciampini. “You can enjoy walking to work, the library, local farmers’ market, to our various retail stores, and even to grab a delicious meal at one of our fabulous restaurants.”
With the continued growth and expansion of the Greensburg area, local initiatives are springing up to involve community members and volunteers in citywide development projects. The Greensburg Community Development Corporation, a non-profit organization, is the administrator of the city’s Main Street Program. “The general public can make a donation to support specific initiatives, such as promotion of the city, provide educational opportunities to area college students, recruiting businesses to fill vacant storefronts and office suites, and connect commercial property investors with available buildings,” Gifford says. Adds Ciampini, “The city can always use volunteers to help with any of the city-sponsored events — you can choose to help revitalize a playground, plant flowers in our Gateways, or be a part of a parent organization helping to support our many recreation programs.”
Between the shopping, dining, and cultural centers of interest found in Greensburg, it’s no wonder that retirees, students, and everyone in between has been flocking to the town. “I believe downtown Greensburg is very strong, vibrant, and active,” Gifford says.
Ciampini agrees, “You will find a home in Greensburg for you, your family, and your desires. We have it all.”
The City of Greensburg, city.greensburgpa.org.
Greensburg Community Development Corporation, thinkgreensburg.com.
Work
Excela Health
This health care provider, along with a medical equipment company, includes three licensed acute care hospitals, two free-standing outpatient surgery centers, home care and hospice, and physician practices. 532 West Pittsburgh St., Greensburg. 877.771.1234. excelahealth.org.
University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg
The University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, one of five campuses in the University of Pittsburgh system, offers personalized academic attention and the resources of a large university to 1,750 students. Discover yourself and your world through 24 majors and 19 minors.150 Finoli Drive, Greensburg. 724.837.7040. greensburg.pitt.edu.
Sandra E. Davis
As one of the partners at DeBernardo, Antoniono, McCabe, Davis & DeDiana, P.C., Sandra Davis has been offering her law expertise in and around Greensburg for much of her career. As a graduate of Seton Hill College, she received her J.D. from Duquesne University. 11 N. Main St., Greensburg. 724.836.0700. damdpc.com.
Seton hill university
Located on 200 sprawling acres, this Catholic university offers more than 30 undergraduate and 12 graduate programs. Founded by the Sisters of Charity in 1885, the university became coeducational in 2002. It strives to educate students to act, “critically, creatively, and ethically.” One Seton Hill Drive, Greensburg. 724.834.2200. setonhill.edu.
Greensburg Community Development Corporation
This non-profit organization aims to development, plan, and implement programs to develop the community as a whole. Starting with the core of the city — downtown, and working out to the geographical outskirts, GCDC continues to infuse excitement into the city. 41 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. 724.689.0040, thinkgreensburg.com.
Shop
Never Enough Boutique
The specialty store carries all of the top designer lines of merchandise like Brighton, Vera Bradley, and John Medeiros Jewelry. New goodies arrive every week — so you’ll never have the same shopping experience twice. 200 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg. 724.838.1878. neverenoughaccessories.com.
Beeghly & Co.
As dazzling as the jewelry behind its plated glass countertops, Beeghly & Company Jewelers has accessorized Greensburg since 1997 (and have been in business since 1982!), with attention to design detail, friendly customer service, and the option to repair, restore, or redesign their baubles or yours. 401 South Main Street, Greensburg. 724.832.1500. beeghlyandcompany.com.
Golf For Her
Judy DiNardo was frustrated with the lack of women’s golf attire outside of a resort setting. Using her entrepreneurial drive, DiNardo opened this unique boutique that offers a wide range of golf wear and accessories for the female golfer. Stock up on cute 
skorts and corresponding tops to golf, fashionably. 104 South Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg. 724.834.7920. golfforherpa.com.
Greensburg Floral
This family owned and operated floral store has been serving the Greensburg area for more than three generations, offering heady mixes of flowers at a wide range of prices, with arrangements to suit any budget. 428 Euclid Ave., Greensburg. 724.834.2425. greensburgfloral.com.
Lapels
This fine men’s clothier is just the spot to scoop up dapper duds. Owner Kevin Miscik and store manager Bob Nolan have curated an exclusive line of dress and casual clothing, sportswear, and custom-made suits. 106 South Pennsylvania, Ave., Greensburg. 724.853.7145. lapelsmensstore.com.
Personalized Color
& Clothing
This upscale boutique specializes in missy and petites sizes and prides itself on personal service. The accessories available at the store compliment the clothing — providing the perfect spot for one-stop shopping. New shipments of 
merchandise arrive weekly, so you can always stay in-trend with the latest fashions. As an added bonus, the women at the store also do color analysis and the store has its own line of cosmetic and skin care products. 229 S. Main St., Greensburg. 724.834.1200
Shalimar Bazaar
With “gifts galore” this store specializes in home decorating accessories, accents for the home, custom silk floral arrangements, and much more. The wide selection of merchandise (with new shipments in weekly), is perfectly priced for helping you to find a great gift for any occasion. Plus, the store is a sight to see. Owner Karen Barnes and her team redecorate the store seasonally — we can’t wait to see the Christmas display this year!
159 E. Otterman St., Greensburg.724.836.4740.
Relax
Red Stone Highlands
The peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ll be well taken care of is found at this center for senior living. The community includes a variety of housing choices ranging from villas, to apartments, and memory impairment care to hospice care. 6 Garden Drive, Greensburg. 724.832.8400. redstonehighlands.org.
City of Greensburg
Discover the charm of Greensburg, and stay on the lookout for local events such as the SummerSound concert series and parades, and the latest city news. 416 S. Main St., Greensburg, 724.838.4325. city.greensburg.pa.us.
Palace Theatre
This month, the theater is buzzing in anticipation of great acts from the River City Brass presentation of Happy Birthday RCB!! Let’s Celebrate! (September 10) to Stage Right’s performance of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (September 23 – 25). 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg. 724.836.8000. thepalacetheatre.org.
Moonglow Yoga
Owner Melanie Alexander has organized talented teachers to offer a most relaxing setting and varied yoga offerings in Greensburg. The studio schedules daily specials for students and pre-registration for classes is not required. 534 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. 412.551.1555. moonglowyoga.com.
Dine
Supper Club
Truly revolutionary, Executive Chef Greg Andrews has created a culinary gem in Greensburg. Located in the historic Greensburg Train Station, the hip vibe is complemented by fresh, farm-to-table fare that utilizes more than two-dozen local farmers, foragers, and local producers’ top products. 101 Ehalt St., Greensburg. 724.691.0536. supperclubgreensburg.com.
The Chocolate Shoppe
Owner Melissa O’Brien’s sugary specialties include hand-dipped sweets, including fruits, nuts, and cookies, as well as gourmet apples and chocolate-covered cheesecake (yum!). 118 North Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg. 724.216.5847, gourmetchocolateshoppe.com.
