Wightman Park, Squirrel Hill North: 1326 Wightman Street
Wightman Park is a recently redesigned all-ages recreation space in Squirrel Hill North. Once plagued by water drainage issues, the area now features a beautiful array of native plants, bisected by gently curving walkways, and a little footbridge (because, you know, this is the City of Bridges). The decision to place this functional and aesthetically pleasing feature between the ball field and the playground makes the park appear spacious and welcoming. The space now offers a wider variety of “experiences” to have and explore. And yes, those experiences also include a set of city steps (lol) and a built-in hillside slide.
During my visit, a group of a dozen adolescent students, accompanied by a teacher, gathered at the pavilion. Some were writing at the picnic table, some talking with a partner, some breaking off to walk around with notebooks and pens, taking photos with their phones. One student circled the park with a clipboard, officiously checking off items. There are serious discussions, unsure expressions, and bursts of laughter. As I sit on a bench under a shade tree, leaning back in a meditative pose, I wonder if my presence will be represented in their data collection and analysis. They most certainly are included in mine!
Love Pittsburgh’s City Steps? Get a Copy of the NEW Book!
City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide explores the history of the steps and the neighborhoods in which they were built. It also includes 13 guided walks and 20+ locations worth visiting—all with detailed descriptions, directions, and resources for creating your own urban hiking adventure. All areas of Pittsburgh are represented: north, south, east, and west. The book is available through all online shops (including our publisher) and local and independent bookstores.