Friendship Park, Neighborhood Park: 4750 Friendship Avenue
Friendship Park is a longish stretch of green space between Gross and Edmond Streets in Bloomfield, adjacent to West Penn Hospital. Because it has paved, designated walking paths, it’s a popular spot for neighborhood dog walkers, hospital employees on break, and friends and family who prefer waiting outside to a close, windowless waiting room. It’s also flat, which is a rare and welcome feature in this city of hills!
On a grey, drizzly day, I amble the loop, three blocks one way, three blocks back. I’m in a light but steady stream of people: some quickly moving to their destination, others slowly walking and talking on their phone or to someone beside them, and those, like myself, who move without much of a plan, letting the sights lead me from one thing to the next. Like the bright orange mesh that cordons off an area under construction. What’s being fixed isn’t clear, but something new and improved is in the works. And the colorful mural of fishes and flowers painted between the crosswalks at S. Mathilda Street. They bring a little joy to anyone looking down. Even a momentary smile can make a difference on days like these.
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City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide explores the history of the steps and the neighborhoods in which they were built. It also includes 13 guided walks and 20+ locations worth visiting—all with detailed descriptions, directions, and resources for creating your own urban hiking adventure. All areas of Pittsburgh are represented: north, south, east, and west. The book is available through all online shops (including our publisher) and local and independent bookstores.
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