Harrisburg Happenings, Community Events & More

Rep. Dan B. Frankel July 24, 2026 | 1:28 PM

PA Representative Dan Frankel banner image

Friday, July 24, 2026

My office, above the Starbucks at Forward and Murray avenues, will be open Monday through Friday next week from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Harrisburg Happenings

Preserving Pennsylvania's Independent Health Care Data Resource

Last week, I introduced legislation with Republican Rep. Bryan Cutler to ensure the long-term stability of the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4), an independent, nonpartisan agency that has helped improve health care transparency for nearly 40 years.

PHC4 provides valuable data on health care costs, quality, utilization and hospital finances that helps policymakers, health care providers, researchers, employers, and patients make informed decisions. Our bill (H.B. 2702) would eliminate the agency's outdated sunset provision, removing unnecessary uncertainty while preserving PHC4's existing responsibilities, governance and accountability.

By providing continuity for this important work, we can ensure Pennsylvanians retain access to the reliable health care information that supports better policy decisions and improved health outcomes.

Medicaid Now Covers Abortion Care in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvanians enrolled in Medicaid can now access abortion coverage after a Commonwealth Court judge lifted the pause on April's ruling, striking down the state's decades-old coverage ban. The decision comes as the case continues before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, but for now, Medicaid patients no longer have to pay out of pocket for this essential care.

It is a core belief of mine that reproductive freedom shouldn't depend on income level. This ruling is a significant step toward ensuring every Pennsylvanian — regardless of their insurance coverage— can make their own health care decisions. I'll continue watching this case closely as it moves through the courts.

Community Events and Resources

Parkway East Could Reopen Earlier Than Expected

I-376 between the Squirrel Hill Tunnel and Edgewood/Swissvale (Exit 77)

I-376 Parkway East and Commercial Street remain closed while crews replace the Commercial Street Bridge. Drivers should continue to expect delays and follow posted detours.

The Parkway East was originally scheduled to reopen by Aug. 3, but PennDOT now says the highway could reopen as early as this week if work continues to progress and weather cooperates. Commercial Street is still expected to reopen by Aug. 3.

You can check your personalized detour route on PennDOT’s interactive mapping tool at 511PA.com.

Summer Fridays at the Frick

Friday, July 24, activities begin at 5 p.m., music at 6:30 p.m. | Frick Pittsburgh Lawns

Enjoy the second of three Summer Fridays at the Frick with an evening of live music by The Polkamaniacs, food trucks, artmaking and family fun on the Frick lawns.

The Museum Store will remain open until 8 p.m., and the Grable Visitor Center will be open for restroom access. The Frick Art Museum and the Car and Carriage Museum will not be open during Summer Fridays.

The Farina Foundation will collect donated musical instruments throughout the evening.

New for 2026, admission is $5 for all adult visitors.

Buy tickets in advance and learn more here.

Schenley Plaza 20th Anniversary Jubilee
Saturday, July 25, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Schenley Plaza

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Schenley Plaza with a free day of music, entertainment and family activities in the heart of Oakland.

The event will feature complimentary rides on the PNC Carousel, live entertainment including a 21-piece big band and a concert by Azure, horse-and-carriage rides, fairytale characters, balloon art, face painting, caricatures, local vendors and activities throughout the day.

Teen Science Café: Meet Pittsburgh Astronaut Dr. Jay Apt
Saturday, July 25, 7:15–9:30 p.m. | Allegheny Observatory, 159 Riverview Ave.

Teens are invited to an evening of science, space, and exploration at the Teen Science Café. Hear Pittsburgh astronaut Dr. Jay Apt share stories from his spacewalks, then enjoy hands-on activities, observatory tours led by teen volunteers, and, weather permitting, telescope observing.

Learn more and reserve a free seat here.

Open Streets 2026

Sunday, July 26, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Strip District & Lawrenceville

OpenStreetsPGH will create a car-free connection between the Strip District and Lawrenceville. The event invites people of all ages to walk, bike or roll along the open streets and enjoy local neighborhoods in a safe, family-friendly environment.

Each event hub will include water refill stations, bathrooms, and information and merchandise tables.

Learn more here.

Cinema in the Park: ReelAbilities Summer Shorts

Sunday, July 26, movie begins at dusk (suggested arrival time is 8:15pm) | Schenley Plaza

Enjoy a free evening of outdoor cinema at Dollar Bank Cinema in the Park with a special screening of “Film Pittsburgh Presents: ReelAbilities Summer Shorts.” The program will feature a collection of short films selected by members of Pittsburgh’s disability community as a preview of the upcoming ReelAbilities Film Festival. Audio descriptions services will be available on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a summer night under the stars.

Free registration and accommodation requests can be found here.