Residences on Bigelow

I am writing to express my profound dissatisfaction and serious concerns about the current state of the facilities and management practices at Residences on Bigelow. Let me speak frankly, I definitely would not recommend Residences on Bigelow.

Frequent Breakdown of Facilities:
Since moving in, I have encountered a persistent issue with the facilities and equipment within my apartment. Conversations with previous tenants have echoed my sentiments, highlighting a pattern of subpar equipment leading to frequent breakdowns that necessitate repairs. Personally, within just six months of residing here, I have experienced three significant instances of facility damage, causing considerable inconvenience to my daily life.

Inadequate and Untimely Safety Notifications:
The lack of timely safety notifications is a matter of grave concern. Previous instances, such as delayed power outage notifications, have resulted in significant inconvenience. Considering the potential severity of unforeseen incidents, I question the adequacy of safety measures in place. Is this housing location genuinely safe for its residents?

Unjustifiable Rent Increases:
The recent notification about a rent increase from $1,420.00/month to $1,560.00/month raises serious questions about the management's transparency and fairness. The initial communication justified the increase as necessary "to remain in compliance with the University and due to cost-of-living expenses, high demand, and current market values." However, this increase fails to align with the stated justifications. Despite frequent facility damages, there has been no indication of compensation or rent reduction. I find it unacceptable to impose such arbitrary and unjustified rent hikes without any legitimate basis.

I earnestly request that the housing services of the University of Pittsburgh conduct a thorough investigation into these matters and take appropriate measures to rectify the situation. The unpleasant living conditions and disruptive learning environment resulting from these issues demand swift and decisive action.

I appreciate your immediate attention to these concerns and expect a prompt and comprehensive resolution to ensure the well-being and satisfaction of all residents.

Residences on Bigelow is pretty convenient. The shuttle picks up right in front of the building and you can get to class at a decent time. All utilities are invited and it comes furnished, although it looks very much like an old hotel. I think it’s good enough for someone living alone.
Here are the faults in my opinion:
-only 1 working elevator (which malfunctions often)
-no in-unit washer/dryer
-anyone can come in the building before 9p
-mailroom is not set up, so sometimes your packages will just sit in the lobby
The place could definitely be better, but it’s okay for the time being.

Overall, the studio is great for living on your own. All utilities are included in addition to the fact that it is fully furnished. My only downside is that there is frequent construction on the building and it is located in a food dessert for those who don't have cars.

This is a Pitt-owned property, which is why the cost is a bit on the higher side. However, it includes all utilities, and is a shuttle shop that goes straight to Children's Hospital, Scaife Hall, Pitt undergrad campus, and several spots along Forbes Ave, which is incredibly convenient and means that you don't need a car! If you do want a car, though, there is a garage that you can park in using a residential pass, and that allows for you to park in several other campus lots and garages on evenings and weekends.