Trip #34 Herron Avenue / Bigelow Boulevard Underpass, Polish Hill, Pittsburgh took place on September 16, 2017, and was published on September 20, 2017.
I’ve read that people who have had near-death experiences recall being in a long, dark tunnel illuminated only by a brightly glowing orb at the far end. They feel a compulsion to “head toward the light” (which we assume is the after-life), and this sensation is what they most remember after being resuscitated and brought back to this world.
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The Bigelow Underpass is a bit like a near-death experience involving Hieronymus Bosch’s version of Hell. It might look bright and white, but feral cats, human piss, dampness from poor drainage, vomit and rotting garbage all contribute to a stench that could be described as “underworldly.” The graffiti sticks around until the city re-paints the walls, but unfortunately, even the odor of spray paint finds its way up and out. I survey the environment and decide not to linger.
Field Notes: Based on the build date, I made a guess that the entry was referring to the underpass at Bigelow. This time around it wasn’t quite as filthy, but it still smells so awful! Mouth breathing the entire time I was down here… I really don’t know why the city bothers painting the walls down here, it’s already covered in blue and yellow spray paint.
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!!
