Trip #648 Hampshire Avenue, Beechview, Pittsburgh took place on October 8, 2021, and was published on October 15, 2021.
Yes, this is a photograph of city steps with two illegally dumped mattresses (and an abandoned TV just out of the frame). It seems like as long as Pittsburgh has been a city, our steep and hidden hillsides have been magnets for trash. Over the years, I’ve heard so many reasons why this problem persists, and they all have some validity. People don’t want to wait for garbage collection day. People have too much garbage and don’t want to pay to dispose of it. People don’t want their parents or spouse to know what they’re eating or drinking, so they pitch their cans, wrappers, bags, and containers outside. And many smokers seem to think a cigarette’s filter disappears once they toss it to the ground. But I also know this much is true – the problem won’t get better until more people are involved. So please, when you see something, say something by using 311. If you’re physically able, pick up litter near your home or job. Donate a few bucks or volunteer for organizations like Pittsburgh Street Stewards or Allegheny Cleanways. And be vocal about specific problems to current and future city council members. No one should have to live, work, or play in places that look like this.
Field Notes: This flight of city steps is the first of three that comprise the area around Canton Avenue (“steepest street” in America). Yes, when you climb to the end of Canton where it intersects with Hampshire you’re greeting by a bunch of illegally dumped mattresses and a television. *sigh* The good news, the monkey balls appear to be falling now.
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.
