FNB considers more space in its new HQ

At a time when many local companies are cutting office space, First National Bank may be expanding its footprint in the new headquarters it will be moving into this year at the former Civic Arena site.

The bank is thinking about taking more space — perhaps as much as two floors — in the 26-story FNB Financial Center now under construction in the lower Hill District, according to local real estate sources.

FNB already has committed to taking about half of the 400,000 square feet of office space available in the tower. It is set to occupy the top three floors as well as floors eight through 16.

JC Pelusi, the Jones Lang LaSalle marketing director who is leasing the office space, declined comment, referring questions to FNB. Jennifer Reel, a bank spokeswoman, did not return several emails and phone calls seeking comment.

FNB will anchor the office tower and have its name at the top. In signing the deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins and developer Buccini/​Pollin Group to move into the building, the bank was given the option of expanding the amount of space it wanted to take.

Of the 26 floors, nine were designated for non-bank tenants as of early November. At the time, Mr. Pelusi said that he had signed letters of intent with tenants to occupy floors six, seven, and 17.

If those deals moved to completion, he predicted he would have 80% to 90% of the non-FNB floors filled by the end of 2024.

Kevin Acklin, president of business operations for the Penguins, which holds the development rights to the 28-acre arena site, said Thursday officials are “making great progress” in discussions with other possible tenants.

The new tower is on track to be completed in the second quarter of this year, with FNB expected to move in by late summer or fall. About 600 bank employees will occupy the structure.

In addition to the office floors, the building will feature two levels of parking with about 115 spaces for tenants. The second level will house two retail spots — one about 4,000 square feet and one 5,000.

There will be two retail spaces — 4,000 and 1,800 square feet, respectively — on the first floor.

The Penguins are also planning another mixed-use building on Block F next to PPG Paints Arena.

Mr. Pelusi has said that JLL is in conversations with a build-to-suit tenant interested in taking all of the office space in that development, which is expected to include a boutique hotel and 30,000 square feet of retail space.

The Post-Gazette reported in November that the K&L Gates law firm is one of those considering the space. The firm’s lease in the 39-story Downtown skyscraper that bears its name expires this year barring an extension.

Mr. Acklin has said that proposals are out with “at least two motivated local companies” for the office space available in the new building.

The team and Buccini/​Pollin are hoping to get started early this year on the construction of a live music venue with a 4,500-person capacity and a 910-space parking garage next to the FNB Financial Center.

Mark Belko:mbelko@post-gazette.com