Citizen Science Lab’s new home brings hope to Herron Avenue corridor

The Citizen Science Lab has a new home — the former Martin Luther King, Jr. Reading and Cultural Center on Herron Avenue in the Hill District. The building’s opening ceremony coincided with the Juneteenth holiday, a fact that speakers at the event said felt fitting. “Our ancestors certainly are proud on this day,” said Pa. Rep. La’Tasha Mayes, whose office is located nearby on Centre Avenue. “I can’t wait to bring my three-year-old daughter here, who loves space … She knows that she can be anything. She knows that she can be a scientist, and now she knows there is a resource that was built just for her in the community that her mother happens to serve.” The Lab has operated out of a location in the South Hills. The nonprofit received over $5.8 million in foundation money to expand and help revitalize the Hill District. “The Hill District deserves access to world-class experiences right here in our own neighborhood,” said Citizen Science Lab Founder, President, and CEO Andre Samuel in opening remarks. He said the building had sat vacant “for far too long.” “That story changes today,” Samuel said. “This building once again becomes a place where knowledge, imagination, opportunity will flourish.” The Citizen Science Lab opens in the newly renovated MLK Center in the Hill District on June 19, 2026. Credit: CP Photo: Mars Johnson Other speakers included Pa. Rep. Aerion Abney, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, and artist and Citizen Science Lab board member Samantha Black. All sounded hopeful notes about the role the lab’s new headquarters could play in inspiring Hill District and other area youth. Through additions and renovations, the former cultural center now houses laboratory spaces, including a 3D printing room; classrooms and meeting rooms; and a connected greenhouse and chicken coop. The Citizen Science Lab has partnerships with 12 local school groups, including Pittsburgh Public Schools. A group of you