Trip #606 Sinton Avenue, Overbrook, Pittsburgh took place on June 26, 2021, and was published on July 7, 2021.
If you’ve ever wondered why Pittsburgh has so many alleyways, it’s because up until the 1950s, it was a standard construction practice—building a narrow, roughly paved road behind residential and commercial structures provided a hidden spot for garbage and small stables/garages. However, in 1914, the “alleys” of Pittsburgh had their identities changed and became known as “ways.” Civic leaders thought this to be a more appealing term as these tucked-away paths had become associated with criminal activities (…not sure how effective a crime-busting plan that was…). City steps are as old as the alley/ways and frequently intersect, like these at Sinton Ave and Walna Way in Overbrook, and exploring them offers a glimpse back in time. Yes, they’re still a popular spot for garbage and illegal dumping, but I’ve yet to spot anything more unsavory.
Field Notes: This is a long “Way” (called an Avenue on Google maps) that runs several blocks and bisects several other “Ways” between the start and finish. Lots of mulberries on the ground in this section!
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.
