Trip #712 Yew Street, Bloomfield, Pittsburgh took place on March 27, 2022, and was published on April 1, 2022.
Fear tempers our impulses and warns us of possible danger. Think of it as a guard dog or a night light or security system—it helps make us aware of potential problems in both familiar and unfamiliar environments. But it’s a response that needs careful monitoring. Ignoring fear can place us in harmful or threatening situations, but listening to it exclusively can close us off from everything and everyone. The key is to let fear have its say without letting it rule the roost. Working alongside this worrisome collaborator (who generally has our best interest at heart) and acknowledging its messages helps us engage with the unknown in ways that can make us feel competent, secure, and… less fearful. So when fear comes around, welcome it, and let the conversation flow!
Field Notes: This wooden flight looks a little creaky but it’s still in fine walking condition (as shown by the footprints in the snow!) This view is from Gross Street, which is now a dead-end for a UPMC parking lot. However, Yew Street is a narrow, residential area that has a very Bloomfield feel to it!
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.
