Trip #579 Knox Avenue, Knoxville, Pittsburgh took place on April 18, 2021, and was published on April 28, 2021.
Sidewalks are built to guide where you walk, but if you look at the paths etched into grassy areas, you’ll notice some pedestrians have other ideas. When I spy an informal trail, I think about the people who established it and imagine what they’re like. They’re practical, creating a shorter, more efficient journey. They’re rebels, not afraid to break from societal norms. But more importantly, they’re the bridge-builders whose efforts make it easier for others to follow. And as a result, the new path becomes a bit safer and more acceptable. Forging pathways and building bridges can be dangerous and challenging work, but to not do it causes a greater peril to us all – regardless of where we choose to walk.
Field Notes: Another busy intersection with a little jump step at the top. There’s a path that has been etched into the hillside before the corner, so it looks like some pedestrians prefer to cut-through rather than stick to the sidewalk. It’s popular enough to warrant its own voter registration sign!
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.
