Trip #660 Fairacres Avenue, Beechview, Pittsburgh took place on October 28, 2021, and was published on November 10, 2021.
City living can make anyone feel claustrophobic, especially as winter arrives with increased darkness and cold, damp weather. We shouldn’t be surprised if we start to feel hemmed in and trapped not only physically but mentally and emotionally. But an amazing cure for psychic itchiness is right at our disposal, and it’s as easy as going outside. In the early days of the city steps, when household size was larger and homes smaller, I imagine they were a popular spot to clear the mind, think deep thoughts, get the adrenaline moving, or take an easy breath with a trusted friend. Whether you’re walking through a city park or neighborhood, you’ll quickly discover how much space we have access to and how that expansiveness naturally lifts your spirits. So ready the wool socks, sweaters, and thermals. Find a funky hat and some functional gloves and make a plan for welcoming the new season. You don’t want to miss what the next few months have to offer.
Field Notes: This long sidewalk flight looks great at the top but it gets a little beat-up toward the bottom. Still, it is a very steep street so it’s certainly helpful for anyone walking (unless you’re out looking for trouble… ;-).
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.
