McNeil Place, Upper Hill, Pittsburgh took place on July 24, 2022, and was published on July 27, 2022.
Years ago, the television show Mission Impossible began each episode with the same, now-famous line, “Your mission, should you choose to accept it…” No matter how silly the rest of the show became, this statement reveals a keen understanding of human nature: those who willingly step up to do something not only show their commitment to a particular cause, but they’re also more likely to stay committed to seeing the mission through to the end (which, whether you exist in TV-Land or reality always has evil villains, unexpected setbacks, and “oh-sh!t” moments). This deeper, personal connection turns a “mission” from impossible to one with a higher probability of success. So, for those who have read this far and feel you could benefit from a mission, here’s one to consider: Be the most just, kind, and humble version of yourself that you can be today, tomorrow, and all the days after. Approach all with openness and tenderness. It’s true that this isn’t an easy mission, but it is possible. It’s one that, if we all choose to accept it, could create all sorts of amazing, wonder-filled things.
Field Notes: This flight is NOT in Bob Regan’s city steps book and I can’t help but think that he mistook it for a private flight or forgot to record it. He did document the other city steps around it, so he was exploring the area. Regardless, they are now on the master list the city has and a look at the (now) online historical maps show the stairs on the 1923 edition (but not on 1910). The architecture of the buildings across the street certainly speaks to that time period!
Love city steps? Get yourself the latest issue of Mis.Steps: Our Missed Connections with Pittsburgh’s City Steps! Each copy is unique and features 10 randomly selected “trading cards” of Pittsburgh’s 739 public stairways. Visit the Mis.Steps online store to see all issues and place your order.
Want to visit these stairs? You can locate them on the Pittsburgh City Steps Plan website!
Be a good neighbor! Have you visited these stairs and found them in poor condition or that illegal dumping (large items like tires, old furniture, and construction debris) and trash were abundant in the area? There are two things you can do to take action and make our city steps cleaner and safer for everyone! First, grab a photo if you can, and submit a report to Pittsburgh 311. All problems, both broken stairs, and railings, as well as trash and dumping, should be reported to the city. You can easily do this online or by calling.
