Pittsburgh Gears Up For 62nd Light Up Night

PITTSBURGH, PA — Pittsburgh Public Safety Department officials say plans are in place to ensure revelers at the 62nd annual Highmark Light Up Night festivities on Nov. 18 will have a safe and secure environment Downtown.

With various events scheduled throughout Downtown and seasonable temperatures predicted, typically large crowds are expected for the celebration that marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in Pittsburgh.

“We are excited to welcome Pittsburgh residents and guests to our Downtown as we all take part in one of the City’s most festive and joyful events of the holiday season” Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt said in a news release.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police will work with partnering law enforcement agencies -- including the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Port Authority Police and State Park Rangers -- to provide uniformed and plainclothes officers throughout the event space.

Pittsburgh Outreach workers will also be on hand, working in cooperation with city police.

Temporary light towers will be in place in high-traffic areas to ensure safe corridors.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of EMS will have extra medic units on hand for potential medical emergencies and Pittsburgh Fire and Emergency Management will be in place for other emergencies. River Rescue crews will be patrolling the rivers to provide added security for those enjoying the events on and near the water.