Trip #402 Warren Street, Fineview, Pittsburgh took place on January 25, 2020, and was published on February 19, 2020.
Three cats gather by two aluminum bowls placed on the sidewalk, drinking water and keeping an eye on me. The one of “generous size” has a wild, bushy coat the color of the street, and the other two look like patches of old snow. I follow a trail of breadcrumbs down a set of mossy wooden stairs where I am greeted by a black squirrel the size of my forearm, vigorously gnawing on a generous hunk of bread. As if on cue, a large dog appears at the base of the stairs; black and white and grey like a husky with ice blue eyes. I get a quizzical look, and then two quick barks, more of a greeting than a warning. Would I also like something to eat or drink? Surrounded by these beautiful creatures, it feels so natural to be kind and at ease. It feels so natural to exist in a state of understanding and harmony.
Field Notes: It was a regular menagerie of animals here on Warren street! Three cats, a dog, and a VERY large black squirrel. Looks like someone leaves food and water out for the furry friends!
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!!
