Huge Man-Made Lagoon Planned For Pittsburgh's North Side

PITTSBURGH, PA - The world’s first urban lagoon that converts from an idyllic body of water in the summer to a frozen skating rink in the winter is coming to Pittsburgh’s North Side. The two-acre lagoon will be part of Millcraft Industries 15-acre mixed use Esplanade development along the Ohio River.

Esplanada, to be built just west of the Rivers Casino, will include offices, housing, retail and a large Ferris wheel similar to the one in the National Harbor in Washington, D.C. The lagoon, wichi will boast four-season functionality with thermal baths year round, will be the massive project’s centerpiece.

During Pittsburgh’s warmer months, Esplanade’s turquoise lagoon at Esplanade will be a spot in which people can swim, kayak, paddleboard or walk along its white sand beach. When colder weather arrives, a portion of the lagoon will be frozen and used for winter sports.

“It’s very important to us, as we plan the Esplanade project, to add features that are functional year-round – welcoming to all ages, to all of those within the community, to all of those visiting our city and to the future residents of Esplanade.” Lucas Piatt, president and chief operating officer of Millcraft Investments.

Millcraft is teaming on the project with with Crystal Lagoons, a company that has completed, started or planned more than 600 man-made lagoon projects worldwide.

“This is an important milestone for Crystal Lagoons as it marks our first crystalline lagoon in the U.S. Northeast and is our first urban lagoon project anywhere in the country,” said Christopher Souza, Crystal Lagoons regional director.

The cost of the project, as well as an estimated opening date, were not announced.

Renderings via Millcraft Industries.

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