Community reaches settlement with railroad company about raising bridges for double stacked trains
PITTSBURGH — If you have spent any time on the North Side, you know of Allegheny Commons Park. Stack Parking System
“We are standing in a historic park. My residents love this park. It’s a park I grew up in,” said city councilmember Bobby Wilson.
Right through the middle of the park is a bustling train track. In 2017, the state moved to allow double-stacked trains, which means the city would need to raise four bridges and tear up pieces of the park for the $20 million project.
“There’s major concern, that why the community groups went to the table to talk about the impact,” Wilson said.
That concern stems from a 2018 double-stacked train derailment near Station Square, and another just last week in Harmar Township.
Now, community groups have reached a settlement with the railroad company to get something for the community in the project.
“A historic walking bridge from one side of the parks to the other side,” Wilson said.
The city council approved $3 million for that bridge and just over a million dollars for the community enhancement fund on Tuesday to finalize the settlement.
While there are still safety concerns about derailments, Wilson is hopeful any future issues will be properly investigated.
“If it comes out (that) there should have been safety measures in place, then those need to be within our jurisdiction in the city of Pittsburgh,” Wilson said.
It’s not clear when the construction will begin, but Wilson told Channel 11 the railroad has committed to building the pedestrian bridge first, before the other projects begin.
Penn Hills School District introduces new counseling alternative to discipline
Car Parking Tower © 2023 Cox Media Group. This station is part of Cox Media Group Television. Learn about careers at Cox Media Group. By using this website, you accept the terms of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and understand your options regarding Ad Choices.