Last week the Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and
Allegheny County (SEA) officially opened the new $9.5 million Riverfront
Plaza at the
David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
The
Plaza spans 1,300 feet of riverfront property and includes a
3,000-square-foot public event plaza and walkway. This includes a new
section of Three Rivers Heritage Trail, which now travels from Point
State Park to the Strip District. "It's creates another spot to connect
to the trails and enjoy walking, biking and other recreational
activities along the river," says
SEA Executive Director Mary Conturo.
Features of the Plaza include decorative paving to resemble a river
delta and landscaping of trees, shrubs and plants that grow naturally along the river. Mooring for both
commercial and recreational boats is available, and the programmable
space can serve as a meeting spot for walks or other events and
activities, says Conturo.
Mascaro Construction Company, LC was project's contractor, along with
LaQuatra Bonci Associates and
GAI Consultants.
The
opening of this Plaza sets a new standard to make the most of the
area's waterfront, says Stephan Bontrager, director of communications at
Riverlife,
who worked as SEA's project partner for the Plaza. "Creating this loop
of riverfront trails continues to redefine Pittsburgh as a city that's
progressive with outdoor recreation and entertainment along the
riverfront."
With the completion of this section, the Three
Rivers Heritage Trail System is now more than 80 percent finished,
Bontrager says. The next steps will be the completion of the South Shore
Riverfront Trail and the Mon Wharf Switchback, a ramp that will provide
access to Point State Park and the Great Allegheny Passage.
Writer: Alex Audia
Source: Stephan Bontrager, Riverlife
Mary Conturo, SEA