Key Downtown Pittsburgh Street Getting Major Makeover

PITTSBURGH, PA — Groundbreaking occurred Tuesday on a major Pittsburgh initiative: the first phase of the full redesign and reconstruction of Smithfield Street. The initial phase will focus on Smithfield between Forbes and Sixth avenues and take 18-24 months to complete.

The overall project will modernize the Smithfield corridor with a complete roadway reconstruction, expanded sidewalks, new curbs, pedestrian experience improvements, safety bump outs, signage, pavement markings, street landscaping, and infrastructure for improved lighting to beautify the street.

The existing transit-only lane will be maintained as it exists today.

“Smithfield Street has historically been an iconic destination for transit, shopping, and culture in Downtown Pittsburgh,” Mayor Corey O'Connor said at the groundbreaking ceremony underneath the iconic Kaufmann's clock at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Smithfield.

“With the public amenities like the bus lines, park, library, housing and storefront opportunities for small businesses, it’s time to reinvest in the vibrancy of this main street."

Future phases of the project are expected to expand to Fort Pitt Boulevard to the south and Liberty Avenue to the north.