Trip #300 Fountain Street to Graib Street, Fineview, took place on May 27, 2019, and was published on June 17, 2019.
Scale and ornament. These words apply to us as individuals as well as to the places we live in. A scale can be more than a number indicating weight; it’s also a way to help us determine our reach and how far can we go while still maintaining effectiveness. Ornamentation is how we define ourselves, what’s our “look” – flashy, glitzy, reserved, subdued, or a million other adjectives. Much like we select our decorative accessories (say, a watch, favorite hat, or rings), our homes, neighborhoods, and cities are also adorned with them. The ornaments are what’s apparent at first glance, but the scale tells of our inner health and vitality. We need both to thrive.
Field Notes: Another great view of downtown from the lower hillsides between Fountain and Graib in Fineview. This is a quiet section that appears cared for but uncertain how much use it gets.
Want to visit these stairs? You can locate them on the Pittsburgh City Steps Plan website!
See the Risograph print of this photo and story in the Mis.Steps Shop.
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. If the location has an abundance of illegal dumping and trash, also contact Allegheny Cleanways, letting them know the location and the nature of the garbage. Thank you!!
