The First City Company is a group of skilled professionals involved in the development of commercial and residential real estate, and in related activities.
First City is unique because our size, and our wide range of experience, allow us to take advantage of marketplace opportunities on behalf of clients. Our principals have been actively engaged in the real estate industry for more than 30 years. In the ever-changing world of commercial and residential real estate, The First City Company is a name that means integrity, quality, value and service.
First City is led by an impressive team of real estate professionals who can make a deal of any size work to your advantage.
First City’s principals are:
Richard J. Contrella, President & Chief Operating Officer
Richard Contrella has more than 35 years of experience in the real estate finance, development and management field. During that time, he has participated in more than $500 million in debt and equity financing.
Outside of work, he is active in the Pittsburgh Habitat for Humanity, and formerly served as the organization’s treasurer and vice chairman.
Richard became a Certified Public Accountant in 1983 and holds an MBA and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Pittsburgh.
He was born and raised in western Pennsylvania and lives in Franklin Park.
Frank J. Zappala III, Vice President
Frank Zappala has been developing and managing commercial and residential real estate for more than 35 years, and has been with First City since 1995.
Frank oversees all facets of residential development, including site selection, planning, approvals, and sales & marketing.
He formerly chaired the Pine Township Planning Commission and served as a member and chairman of the board of directors of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Western Pennsylvania.
Frank is a native of the Pittsburgh area and resides in Treesdale, Pine Township.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Lafayette College.
Lori Z. Hardiman, Vice President & General Counsel
Lori Hardiman has been with First City since 1993. She is responsible for the administration of the company’s legal work related to property financing, acquisitions & dispositions, tax appeal administration, lease negotiation & administration, general corporate decision-making, and ownership reporting.
Prior to joining First City, Lori worked for the law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom in Washington, DC.
She holds a law degree and an MBA from Georgetown University.