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2019 Riding Conditions Report

Montrose Hill, O'Hara Township. There is a downed tree that is about to fall onto Clifton Ave. Use caution while going downhill toward Freeport Rd. Alternatively, you could cut through the Comfort Inn parking Lot in RIDC Park and take the well-traveled gravel path beside the gasoline storage tanks.
zzwergel
2019-01-01 11:55:26
Lots of sticks down on the North Shore Trail between the West End Bridge and the prison.  I moved the biggest ones off the trail this morning, but there are some medium sized ones that would be a bit of a surprise if riding after dark.
edronline
2019-01-01 12:50:20
Because of the windstorm Monday night, I'd say just about everyplace that doesn't get constant traffic is going to have downed branches of some size. On the Jail Trail this morning on my way to Icycle Bicycle, I stopped to remove busted glass from a jar that may have been thrown from the Parkway. It was a little farther east than the wood ramp to Second Avenue. I think I got most of the pieces that could puncture a tire, shoe or paw, but as with the advisory in the previous paragraph, I would still be very cautious where any partygoers could have dropped or thrown glass. (The contents of my glass gathering is in a white bag hung over a wooden post. I'll come back for it sometime if someone else doesn't get it first.)
stuinmccandless
2019-01-01 16:45:04
FYI: A fence is up at the Panther Hollow crossing.
aj
2019-01-02 16:34:05
Highland Park Bridge sidewalk desperately needs swept. Does anyone want to help me keep it clear of snow, ice and debris over the Winter? I cannot do it myself.
zzwergel
2019-01-02 17:10:11
I nearly ate shit at the bottom of the new Smithfield Switchback last night. came down the ramp, admittedly at a decent clip, then hit the bottom, which hadn't been cleaned of mud from the recent high water in the Mon Wharf. I slid sideways, was sure i was going down, but somehow, magically was able to right myself and get a foot down. it was like ice.
erok
2019-01-03 10:29:21
@erok, Maybe you should carry a bag of rock salt with you when that kind of thing happens.
zzwergel
2019-01-04 19:02:14
I rode through the same spot on New Year's Day, only going up. Mud is tricky. It gives the feeling of maybe giving you some stability, but one inch of instability and you go down. At least ice gives you no hope of control.
stuinmccandless
2019-01-04 20:13:22
Ditto. Hopefully maintenance on the wharf improves. Even if the mud doesn't take you down, it'll still make a hell of a mess of your equipment. While I enjoy the wharf, if mud continues to be an issue, my route of choice will revert back to BotA.
ornoth
2019-01-04 21:48:47
I don’t think rock salt will help with mud.  Might just make it more liquid, which would be worse.
dave
2019-01-04 22:51:26
Wiped out big time on Allegheny landing on the black inlaid art installation with the Greco-Roman figures. Called Piazza Lavoro And Mythic Source by Ned Smyth per Google maps. Those little stones are slippy n'at, believe you me. At least no one was around to see my wipeout of shame.   Additionally, be careful on the gap trail past mckeesport.  Fire at the steel plant on 12-24-2018 has left the plant spewing all kinds of sulfur crap into the air, making breathing difficult for those with obstructive lung diseases like asthma. https://triblive.com/local/allegheny/14485570-74/mon-valley-residents-at-risk-following-fire-at-clairton-coke-works
edronline
2019-01-09 12:29:23
Nothing special this morning. It was cold, and there is snow, but only a very thin, dry, patchy layer. Hot Metal Bridge, Eliza Furnace Trail, and the streets all seemed fine. I didn't see any frozen puddles, which are the only thing I would worry about.
jonawebb
2019-01-10 09:46:07
As I was going by the Smithfield St bridge yesterday (not on a bike), I noticed two things:
  • the bridge sidewalks were unplowed and will likely be icy over the next few days.
  • The Mon Wharf switchback ramp was clear and completely rideable.
Did someone clear the latter? My understanding is that DPW/PPA were going to lay off the salt during this winter to allow the concrete to cure, and that there were no maintenance plans for this year. So if some kind soul did the clearing, thanks!
chrishent
2019-01-14 10:03:12
Lots of ice on the NST. It's rideable, but pretty slippy, so proceed with caution. If it stays cold the various tracks will likely freeze and make it a lot more dangerous.
dberlin
2019-01-14 10:29:40
Upstream sidewalk on 62nd St. Bridge is mostly clear with occasional patches of snow; use extreme caution on the steps as they are quite icy. Sidewalk on Highland Park Bridge was covered in snow and ice this morning; use extreme caution. Penn Ave. cycletrack is clear except for construction vehicles parked in it near 8th St. 3rd Ave. bike lane is clear at least between Wood St. and Smithfield St. Liberty Ave. westbound bike lane is clear of ice and snow.
zzwergel
2019-01-14 16:03:35
I didn't see much ice today, contrary to the weather report. That might change as precipitation continues. The Hot Metal bridge was plowed and salted today! What a great surprise! Still a little snow/ice on the northern ramp, and a few patches here and there on the bridge itself, but a huge difference!
jonawebb
2019-01-16 09:22:07
Highland Park Bridge sidewalk still has packed snow and ice in a few places. Be careful near each end of the bridge. There is also packed snow and ice on the northern sidewalk of the Heths Run Bridge in Morningside as of 10:30 AM.
zzwergel
2019-01-16 15:56:25
Be careful today. NST on Saturday was 50 percent ice covered. Unclear if rain melted it or now if there is snow over ice. I'd take the roads (beaver, river) until status is known or it melts on Wednesday
edronline
2019-01-21 06:29:24
Does anyone know if the jail trail has been cleared of snow/ice?  
mfriday
2019-01-22 10:56:09
As of 8:30 this morning, the jail trail was still covered with packed snow and ice.  No problems riding a fat tire bike on it.
durishange
2019-01-22 16:07:51
thank you.  I will give the jail trail a try tomorrow.
mfriday
2019-01-22 16:21:57
There are patches of snow and ice on Highland Park Bridge sidewalk. Use caution near the approaches and expect delays.
zzwergel
2019-01-22 18:58:02
Flooding Friday morning. The usual places. Definitely the Mon wharf/switch back. Probable is stadium part of n shore trail.
edronline
2019-01-23 17:37:30
The Eagles' Nest area was iced over and flooded yesterday.  I'm sure it'll be worse today.  I know steps were taken to mitigate the flooding by digging out the sides of the trail and putting in material to hold the water.   I think a better solution would be to repave that section to raise the trail higher than the flooding.
durishange
2019-01-24 10:06:09
Gerry- I don't think there's money to do this. Regrading the trail is expensive. What should be done is whatever government is responsible needs to compel that business next to the trail to mitigate runoff. That's all impermeable surface on the other side of the fence and it all runs off to the lowest point (the trail).
edronline
2019-01-24 13:06:55
Flooding tomorrow morning now up to 19.8 feet so Riverwalk will be a foot deep in water. Also going to get stupid cold next week with nighttime lows belowv 0F.
edronline
2019-01-24 21:26:57
I ran on the NST today from millvale to between the stadiums. Little snow but some black ice. We hit the peak of flooding and trail is still open! Water is about 5" below Riverwalk down there.
edronline
2019-01-25 12:28:49
NST between millvale and stadiums this afternoon was fine. The ice has melted and there was only a fraction of an inch of snow on the trail. Today (Saturday) was vastly better than yesterday (Friday). River is back down well below flood risk. Will be 40s on Monday so all that stuff will melt before it gets down to polar temps wed->Friday
edronline
2019-01-26 21:26:38
Any update on the condition of the Jail Trail today?
benzo
2019-01-28 10:40:51
Jail trail was totally fine this morning, should be even better by now that temps have warmed up somewhat. Latest forecast I've seen calls for possibility of limited rain/snow mix  tonight, but it doesn't look too bad. Hopefully the trail will be in decent shape for the cold snap this week.  
lenticular-truss
2019-01-28 15:04:29
reminder -- wind chill advisory 5am wed -> 5p thursday, with windchills close to -20. That's low. Probably not conducive to keeping your skin while biking. But next week?  High 40s/low 50s!
edronline
2019-01-29 08:46:00
I just saw a neighbor cycling what one would call a hybrid tricycle/miniature car.It looked ridiculous, but you know what?......I could actually see myself purchasing this odd looking vehicle,especially in the winter.He called it a Prebel and it even had a heater inside.I don't know if it's allowed on trails.Maybe some day it might become popular.
cycleguy
2019-01-29 09:52:02
I'm sorry my mistake.....It is a Pebl, not a Prebel.This Pebl would be a great vehicle for todays freezing weather!!
cycleguy
2019-01-30 14:37:03
Roads are shit right now. Bike lanes definitely not clear on Negley.  Suggest alternative transport.
katzenmiau
2019-02-01 10:49:33
Tomorrow and Sunday = 40s! Monday -> Thursday = 50s!!! Hopefully all the crap will be gone by Sunday.
edronline
2019-02-01 15:47:13
Negley Ave. bike lanes not clear as of 2:40 PM today. Called 311 to report snow in One Wild Pl. and Negley Ave. bike lanes.
zzwergel
2019-02-01 16:23:38
Mother nature will get rid of the snow far sooner than the city will.
edronline
2019-02-01 16:51:41
Will they likely be clear by 3:30 PM tomorrow? I cannot avoid Negley Ave. going from Aspinwall to Kraynick's? Even though there are numerous stop signs, I can take Jancey St. to Stanton Ave. instead of One Wild Pl.
zzwergel
2019-02-01 18:12:10
Reminder to start logging potholes for the city for when they do their blitz. I reported a 2 foot deep one on Smallman between 13th and 14th. http://pittsburghpa.gov/311/form
edronline
2019-02-04 06:53:48
Very little ice or snow is left out there. Eliza Furnace, Hot Metal, Pocussett are all pretty clear.
jonawebb
2019-02-04 09:27:01
@jonawebb - Thanks for the update.
benzo
2019-02-04 10:13:42
There is a massive crater on inbound Smallman, between 32nd and 31st streets; it takes up nearly the whole lane. Proceed with cautin.
chrishent
2019-02-04 11:00:26
Too many little potholes to count. I was on a HealthyRide twice today between Federal/North and Wood/6Av. Lots of patch, too. It's that season.
stuinmccandless
2019-02-04 19:35:52
I put in the Smallman pothole request Sunday and this morning I got a reply from 311 that the pothole was filled.  My guess is that DPW wants to bang out as many of these potholes (with coldpatch, which is better than nothing) before it gets cold again.  So please please report via 311 as many as possible in the city.
edronline
2019-02-05 08:41:23
proceed slowly if you take the sidelwalk along second ave between Bates and the ramp onto the trail.....big pile of glass midway.
mfriday
2019-02-05 08:51:55
Friday into Saturday ohio river expected to peak at 22 feet.  Mon wharf will be closed, North shore trail flooded.  Point state park may flood on lower level.
edronline
2019-02-06 08:59:20
I rode the whole way to Kraynick's today. No snow on Highland Park Bridge sidewalk, East Liberty Blvd. bike lanes, or Negley Ave. bike lanes. There are still patches of broken glass and other debris scattered in various places on the bridge sidewalk.
zzwergel
2019-02-07 17:20:51
Negley SW bound from Stanton to at least E Lib Blvd was cleaned. Construction fence still up at Hays so you still have to navigate into the motorist lane. Debris in E lib lane SE bound was cleared up. Entering a 311 for the NW lane at N Beatty. Recent construction left a lot to debris. Use caution over large gravel. Wind is an ass kicker today.
katzenmiau
2019-02-08 11:32:48
not sure if this has been posted before.  If so, excuse the duplication.   Allegheny County has an online 311 like system.  I used it to report a ton of potholes in my neighborhood today on the county roads.   http://callcenter.alleghenycounty.us/
edronline
2019-02-08 12:16:49
River going to peak at 24 feet so n shore trail (and lower part of point State Park) will be under water at least until late Sunday. Then expect a lot of mud/ice/crap on the trail for a while.
edronline
2019-02-08 17:32:35
9th Street Bridge (Rachel Carson) is closing on 2-11 for a complete rehab. Will be closed 1.5-ish years (a la the 7th St bridge). I don't think this will affect the trail at all. Just like when the 7th St bridge was closed, there are two openings under the bridge on that side.
edronline
2019-02-08 20:44:29
Flood receeding but will return Wednesday early am, same places downtown as Friday.
edronline
2019-02-10 13:23:17
Rode the NST end to end today. Lots of mud between stadiums and by Alcoa. So heed the barricades. Don't expect dpw to clean the mud Monday and Tuesday if it's going to flood again Tuesday night. So most likely trail will be closed there at least until Friday.
edronline
2019-02-10 16:23:02
Was going to take my bike down to the Waterfront Wednesday pre Costco shop but I assume that with all the rain plus freezing temps plus a ton more rain Tuesday that Eagle Lake will be heavily present with some ice. So maybe ride towards McKeesport that day instead of the Southside?
edronline
2019-02-10 19:03:33
Some pictures from the river trails near the Point on Saturday, February 9. Mon Wharf Switchback ramp leads you into the river. There's a bit of driftwood on the ramp, coated in ice. (The top of the ramp is blocked by a wood sawhorse, so few are going down here) https://flic.kr/p/2eG6MdZ https://flic.kr/p/245D3fi East end of Mon Wharf, near Point State Park. These geese are swimming the Great Allegheny Passage. https://flic.kr/p/2eG6Mdi Northside Trail viewed from Fort Duquesne Bridge. The trail here is largely underwater or undermud. https://flic.kr/p/245D3fP
paulheckbert
2019-02-10 21:38:08
Conditions Panter Hollow, Jail Trail?  Anyone?
mfriday
2019-02-11 12:20:20
At 1045ish this morning: Negley lane Stanton to E Lib Blvd was slushy; took the lane. E lib Blvd lane from Negley to Highland was slushy; took the lane. Highland to Broad was ridable in bike lane. Some roads are slushy in spots. Winter mix will continue.
katzenmiau
2019-02-11 13:28:30
There's a debris slide on the GAP trail about 200-300 feet from the back of Kennywood toward the Waterfront. You can still get through without a problem, but the stones are too heavy for one person to lift.  2 people can lift them. I called and left a message on the SVTC trail maintenance phone line as their online contact form isn't working... Edit: Even though the SVTC contact form said "processing" after I clicked "Submit," I did get a confirmation that they received my message via the form, at least when I did it on my laptop.
edronline
2019-02-13 12:00:32
N shore trail from Alcoa through stadiums is mud covered. Crews were out cleaning so hopefully will be cleared today. Also huge mound of asphalt as trail falls apart by Morgan apartments. I 311ed it. Be careful.
edronline
2019-02-15 09:22:55
City was cleaning off north shore trail today. Should be clear by now.
edronline
2019-02-16 17:13:57
N shore trail pretty mud free today. Lower part of point around fountain is still quite muddy. They did some cleaning yesterday so hopefully will continue tomorrow.
edronline
2019-02-17 17:46:24
Around 10:50am, bike lanes on E Lib Blvd were snowy but not awful to ride on. Have 311'd. Main roads were fine at the time. Things may freeze later.
katzenmiau
2019-02-18 12:34:57
Damn, it was pretty bad out this morning. Fresh snow over packed snow, probably some ice. Hard to navigate on studded tires since it was so chunky. Had to watch around turns since the thick packed snow made it easy to wash out.
benzo
2019-02-20 09:22:10
Also, I had about an inch of snow on my backpack when I got to work. It was coming down pretty fast. I'm sure the sidewalks I shoveled before I left are covered again.
benzo
2019-02-20 09:27:45
Worst conditions of the winter. Very slow on roads. Only the main roads are mostly clear. Downhill is treacherous. Fortunately the drivers are going slow, too. Pocussett Drive was plowed but is snow covered again; I think Eliza Furnace was plowed at some point but is heavy with snow; Hot Metal Bridge has heavy snow and is marked by bumps where people have walked. Respect for the dude with a Healthy Ride bike sitting on a bench in the Eliza Furnace Trail parking lot.
jonawebb
2019-02-20 09:33:15
Main roads are getting wet from rain, anything not cleared (most every other road) is just getting packed with wet snow. Careful yinz. No bike lanes visible and I'd recommend taking the lane or other modes of transport today (buses will definitely be delayed for a bit)
katzenmiau
2019-02-20 11:07:22
Out here in the burbs (Fox Chapel Area) everything is clear. It was like magic -- around 11 am all the streets were clean. But that's because they plow the streets out here. When I lived in Wilkinsburg they plowed very well too, so my guess is that if you can make it out of the city the rest of the ride will be generally smooth sailing. that being said this was the heaviest snow I've had to deal with all season. It was a bitch to shovel.
edronline
2019-02-20 13:46:52
Any news on the trails today? I'm most interested in the North shore trail or the Eliza furnace trail.
edronline
2019-02-21 12:35:22
Eliza furnace trail was in good shape this morning. It appeared to have been plowed at some point yesterday.
lenticular-truss
2019-02-21 12:38:22
NST ok except for millvale end which is , as Dora the explorer would say, a muddy mud pit. Also passage under 9th St bridge closest to the river is cut off. Take the other passage. From the city end go through the sculptures at Allegheny landing and then take the Alcoa ramp
edronline
2019-02-22 13:25:35
Sunday = not a good day for cycling. ISSUED: 2:37 PM FEB. 22, 2019 – NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ...HIGH WIND WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY MORNING THROUGH MONDAY MORNING... * WINDS...West 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * TIMING...Strongest winds expected Sunday morning through Sunday evening. * IMPACTS...Strong winds may blow down limbs, trees, and power lines. Scattered power outages are likely. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A High Wind Watch means there is the potential for a hazardous high wind event. Sustained winds of at least 40 mph, or gusts of 58 mph or stronger may occur. Continue to monitor the latest forecasts. &&
edronline
2019-02-22 20:31:08
I agree Paul.  Just finished a Bike the Burgh Tour with cyclists visiting from Holland and Poland.  It was a fine morning for riding and experiencing the slow temperature drop of more than 10 degrees.  Winds of 27mph were only a problem when we parked our bike as they blew over a few times.
dave
2019-02-24 14:05:02
I rode this morning, beautiful riding weather for February, 55 degrees, blue skies, sunshine..... but the key to a successful ride in windy conditions is doing your pre-flight homework before heading out. When I woke this morning the first thing I did was check the WX maps before breakfast. It showed the rain was ending around 8:30am, sky clearing at 9:00am with SW winds around 10mph, then at 11:00am the winds would be up to 20mph with clouds rolling in, and buy noon the winds would be between 25mph and 50mph. So while the best time to ride was 9:00am to 11:00am, but most importantly was to map your route so you are heading into the 10mph headwind on your way out and having the 20mph tailwind on your way back. Its pretty cool to have 20-25mph tailwinds push you home, there were times I was actually coasting because the gusts were like winds in my sails. Anytime after 1:00pm the 25mph to 50mph gusts can be dangerous to ride for a variety of reasons.
1gearonly
2019-02-24 14:38:49
OhMygosh! The wind blew down a hillside??!!!
dave
2019-02-24 20:18:30
North Shore trail from Penitentiary to Heinz field was full of small debris but easily rideable.  I rode over some and tried to kick what I could but didn't have time to stop and foot sweet the debris.
jstalnaker2112
2019-02-25 07:20:02
Roofing shingles from Morgan apartments all over north shore trail from the windstorm. I emailed the management company yesterday. Haven't heard back. They'd best be getting their roof checked.
edronline
2019-02-28 07:29:42
careful of broken glass near the bus stop, on the sidewalk, greenfield ave to second ave.  Did my best to remove it...
mfriday
2019-03-01 09:24:03
Thanks about the broken glass, @mfriday. Snow was pretty light this morning, but on Hot Metal Bridge there was a fair bit of accumulation, especially on the lower (shaded) portion of the southern ramp.
jonawebb
2019-03-01 11:25:37
Rode the n shore trail end to end. Mainly clear. I was surprised. What snow there is is more liquid than solid. Easy ride.
edronline
2019-03-01 13:20:16
Downtown roads are clear. Saw a light coating of snow on the Point State Park walkways, as well as some more significant buildup on the Ft Pitt bridge and West Carson sidewalks, the latter which already had bike tracks.
chrishent
2019-03-04 07:24:00
jail trail conditions anyone?  
mfriday
2019-03-04 09:22:22
Jail trail has a thin layer of snow with ice underneath. It's ridable with good tires. Pocussett is similar. Hot Metal Bridge is a bit worse, with thicker snow and more bumpiness due to footprints. The streets are clear except for Pocussett between Hobart and the trail. Someone took the trouble to roll down his window and yell "four feet!" at me heading the other way, on Wightman, getting the law wrong. Then someone else passed me fully on the other side of the street at a stop sign on Greenfield, also getting the law wrong.
jonawebb
2019-03-04 09:32:31
thank you  jonaweb.
mfriday
2019-03-04 09:51:23
Eagle Lake is no joke.  Rode through it today.  Maybe 3" deep in some places. It has its own ecosystem now -- there's algae growing in. Just so disappointed that this hasn't been fixed. It seems that unless a local government gets involved, nothing will happen. And as it rains more and more with climate change it's not a matter of if the lake will be there, but how deep.
edronline
2019-03-15 13:12:03
rode the EFT for a first time in a long time. someone (the city?) put up nice wayfinding signs/green and white pavement paint right where the EFT crosses 376 exit at PNC first ave building. However, the nice signs/paint peter out at smithfield and the only wayfinding sign nebulously points forward. Is there going to be a plan to point people down the mon wharf switchback with additional wayfinding signs once down there? The only thing down there is a "Walkway to stadiums" sign.
edronline
2019-03-20 13:17:13
Rode from Millvale to Homestead yesterday. To echo Eric's post from last week, Eagle Lake is pretty bad. I haven't ridden to Homestead since mid-November, so with not  a whole lot of precipitation recently, I thought the "lake" might be small/nonexistent. Not a chance. It's deep with algae everywhere, plus it stinks too. Otherwise, pretty nice day for a ride. Really enjoy Mon Wharf switchback ramp  connection to Point State Park.
jrs
2019-03-21 19:05:34
And given that it has only rained 0.3" in the last 11 days, when the spring rains and summer storms hit, that part of the trail will be impassable. Might as well stock it with fish and sell permits.
edronline
2019-03-21 20:45:51
I had a wild idea on Twitter a couple weeks ago that we could line up a bunch of wooden pallets, rope them together and stake them down, along the edge of the path. You couldn't ride on them, but you might be able to walk a bike on them. I figure start with three or four we could somehow lug down there from the nearest street crossing, as a proof of concept, and if it proves workable, it shouldn't be too difficult to add to it. This shouldn't cost much of anything beyond some rope and stakes. People pitch pallets all the time.
stuinmccandless
2019-03-21 23:59:01
Who exactly is responsible for this part of the trail? Is it the city of Pittsburgh or whatever borough is over there? Is it SVTC (or are they the other side of the Waterfront?). Basically a stakeholder really needs to get involved to fix this at a higher level, because it's either going to be bullying the corporation next door to "do the right thing" or it's going to involve a lot more money than building a trench to absorb runoff.
edronline
2019-03-22 06:22:24
^eagle lake:  I remember hearing that they (FoTR?) plan on building an earthen/gravel ramp to raise the trail, and yesterday I noticed some surveyor stakes along this stretch with grade markings on them.  If I'm interpreting this right, the trail is to be about three feet higher at the middle of the lake and gently tapper out over a 100 ft. run.  I also assume they will put drainage pipes under the ramp so it doesn't just become a dam.
marko82
2019-03-22 09:59:58
To answer Eric, the trail group managing the trail there is Friends of the Riverfront.
paulheckbert
2019-03-22 10:24:48
I also heard similar to what @Marko82 Said.
benzo
2019-03-22 16:21:19
Who ask for winter to return? Large rocks on n shore trail by truck Depot between Heinz and millvale. Seems like part of river Ave got undermined and rocks ran with water across the trail. Here-ish location wise. Dropped pin Near 1231 North Shore Trail, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 https://maps.app.goo.gl/YNZvU
edronline
2019-04-15 16:31:22
The run off was there well before the cement plant was there. I believe there are underground streams, but I'm not a geologist. I used to ride through there before the cement plant and the trail was there.  It was always like this after rains. The trail wasn't built correctly. It should have been graded much higher.  Any other method to resolve this problem than elevating the trail is a waste of time.  That's like asking someone to make the river wider or deeper by the convention center.
durishange
2019-04-16 15:29:04
Today a local non-profit (forgot who) was planting about 20-30 new trees (with pink flowers!) right where River Avenue starts (where the trail meets the Morgan apartment buildings). It looks amazing. Also, both "holes" under the 9th street bridge at the north shore trail are open again. No more needing to go up the arconic/alcoa ramp.
edronline
2019-04-24 17:29:53
Tuesday night, Eagle Lake was edge to edge, maybe 4” deep in spots. My return trip, later evening, there were several frogs IN the trail, chirping merrily away. I took a good hard look at the fenced in lot that blocks water egress there. I swear, you would not need much of a trench at all, maybe only 30 or 40 feet long and a single backhoe width wide, running at a narrow angle from the fence, to allow water to drain. I don’t think it has to be all the way to the river, only far enough away from the trail to let it permeate into the ground. Could probably do it in 10 minutes. Hell, throw a shovel over the fence and scale it, a human could probably dig it in a couple hours time.
stuinmccandless
2019-04-25 19:54:52
At this point Eagle Lake may be considered a wetland with federal/state protection as per The Clean Water Act. https://www.epa.gov/wetlands/wetlands-regulations Maybe the US Army Corps of Engineers can build a bridge as this is a strategic byway...PGH to DC....
yalecohen
2019-04-25 20:17:02
The baby ducks and geese are hatched and wandering around the trails with their aggressive parents.
jstalnaker2112
2019-04-26 07:58:19
Real bike rack at E. Lib Home Depot. That only took 20+ years! Yeah. I know the pic is sideways. Tilt your head.
edronline
2019-04-26 09:23:44
Um, the blue lines are for the clearance for side-lifts on vehicles adapted for wheelchairs. I'm pretty sure that's an ADA violation.
rustyred
2019-05-02 19:49:33
Totally is. Also streets closed this weekend for the marathon.
edronline
2019-05-02 20:26:31
East Street, on the hill leading down from Perry High School & Perrysville Ave, has several new large square asphalt patches. This is the abatement project for lead water lines that started up on the stretch of Perrysville Ave just south of the city line last year. The patches aren't particularly dangerous, but there might be a bit of loose gravel lying about.
stuinmccandless
2019-05-02 21:23:45
How would I get from Aspinwall to Garfield on Saturday because of the marathon?
zzwergel
2019-05-02 22:07:48
This thread was fun before Iguana decided to grab every other tag (and make odd posts with this own tags) and call people whiners who disagree with him. In an effort to preserve my inner peace (clearly this shouldn't get to me, but it does) I'm not going to check this thread anymore. Good luck with the game.
edronline
2019-05-03 06:24:09
Asked the Millvale boro manager a few weeks ago to reopen parking spots in the riverfront Park now that the truck park people are MIA and not reopening. Was told no because they are still paying rent.   Then this happened: 9+ more parking spaces!  
edronline
2019-05-03 10:19:00
That food truck park seemed like such a cool concept when it was announced, but it ended up basically being a bunch of picnic tables and porta-johns in a cramped parking lot, with not much of a river view.  And lots of exhaust from the food trucks. It's cool that people are at least trying to put more interesting stuff along the rivers and trails, but if they had an actual building, I think it would have worked out way better.
alleghenian
2019-05-03 15:13:11
During the marathon, Will it be ok to cross over the path of the marathon (Red lines)? From Morningside, can I cross Negley Ave at Stanton Ave. as well as Penn Ave. or Friendship Ave. as that would be the easiest way into Garfield from Aspinwall.
zzwergel
2019-05-03 21:52:19
Generally yes. The key is to talk to the volunteers or police who are working it. Get their permission. And don't try to cross when it is full of runners. Will be impossible and you will be yelled at. Also dangerous for the runners. You're trying to cross at about mile 22. The marathon starts at 705 am. The elite runners will be there at about 845ish and the big herd probably from 915 onward for a good hour. I think if you go after 11 am you'll be safe. People cross all the time. It's just being smart. And walk your bike across the path. Some police get very angry if you try to ride across it even if there are no runners.
edronline
2019-05-04 06:37:06
The path between Hazelwood Green and Hot Metal Bridge -   This morning a crew was paving this section with new stone dust.  It is much better.  I didn't stay around long enough nor ask if they were doing the whole section.  They started on the washed out area. The path is much more like the stone dust trails on other sections of the gap. I was concerned that I would be stopped by the workers because I'm not sure if this is CSX property (railway).  The workers waived me forward and just said, "be careful."
durishange
2019-05-09 11:22:31
Does anyone know when water fountains around town get turned on? Specifically at the EFT Trailhead by 2nd ave? It's getting humid and I get thirsty.
benzo
2019-05-09 14:06:16
They aren't on yet? 311 it. I bet they forgot.
edronline
2019-05-09 16:59:54
Tonight 78k fans at Heinz Field for Garth Brooks. I'd call the whole area a hard "avoid" today.
edronline
2019-05-18 07:32:10
311ed the downhill bike lane on one wild place. From the end of the zoo to butler street there are quite a few places where vines are growing into the bikelane, forcing people out into the travel lane. Also 311ed the n shore trail. Parts are very narrow because they are overgrown with weeds. Penndot and the county respond super quickly to complaints. In comparison Pittsburgh 311 response is slooooow.
edronline
2019-05-18 15:22:05
Yesterday part of the trail around the Washingtons landing peds bridge was trimmed back. And the awful section between the marinas was actively being cut by volunteers. Thanks, volunteers in red safety vests! The big marina past the west end bridge is in full "get the boats in the river" mode so be careful when going through. As a tug was moving a boat on the non river side of the marina/trail I dared to keep far out of its way by riding closer to the marina house as it was unclear if the tug guy saw me. I was in no danger of being smacked but just in case that tug could do 0-60 in 2 seconds I didn't want to chance it. However, some guy who must work or own the marina yelled at me for riding a foot outside of the marked yellow/white trail lines. It was such a stupid situation that I didn't even respond. I assumed he was mad that Darlene Harris lost and was taking it out on me. It was over here Dropped pin Near North Shore Trail, Pittsburgh, PA 15233 https://maps.app.goo.gl/MAw2scsGDBwu9Dof6
edronline
2019-05-23 07:39:02
Hamilton at E Lib Blvd has broken glass in right edge. I could be wrong about the exact spot, but I got a flat tire shortly after turning on to E Lib towards Broad/Frankstown intersection. I've 311d it but use caution. Saturday is OpenStreets from Shadyside to Homewood in a big circle from 9a-1p. Will be busy but also nice early.
katzenmiau
2019-05-23 11:56:14
Minor flooding Thurs into Fri. Definitely the Mon Wharf. Maybe the North shore. They will need to redo the current forecast as it didn't seem to take into account the water from the huge downpour this afternoon.
edronline
2019-05-29 21:34:37
Lots of closures and pedestrians downtown today and tomorrow for Pride and the arts fest.
edronline
2019-06-08 16:38:30
311’d a large and deep pothole at the corner of Cherry Way and Boulevard of the Allies, right in the optimal riding line.
dave
2019-06-09 22:19:53

Crews are reconstructing the sidewalk near the Duquesne Incline footbridge. It seems like they are making it slightly wider. It's unclear whether they'll redo the area where the footbridge is, thus maybe making it easier to go by there on a bike? TBD.

chrishent
2019-06-14 08:43:05
New bollards on the n shore trail!
edronline
2019-06-21 09:57:49
I dunno if anyone else here ever uses it, but this absolutely made my day: They resurfaced about a mile of the worst part of Old Mill: from the intersection with Fairview to the Old Squaw Trail and the start of the big hill. It's delightful and safe again! There's still a single-lane stop sign near Millview where the hillside has subsided. Also came across a few other bits of resurfacing (both completed and in-progress). Schenley bridge over Panther Hollow. Highland Ave at Stanton. Spring Garden! The downhill side of Center Ave. Field Club/Highland is intermittently milled. And I hear they're starting on Jacks Run.
ornoth
2019-06-21 18:21:03
Brereton St in Polish Hill has been repaved. Lane markings, including the climbing bike lane, have yet to be repainted. Aside, the 28th St bridge over the busway is rough. I recall that there was a project in the five year capital plan to refurbish it or rebuild it, so they may be waiting for that to do work on it. The downhill side of Riverview park, especially on the lower section, has a lot of potholes, so be mindful of that. Also, the lane divider on McCardle now has long crack along it, so don't cross it when going downhill.
chrishent
2019-06-23 08:05:38
Forbes in Oakland next to the Cathedral has been milled for resurfacing, including bike lane.
dave
2019-06-23 10:32:35
Update: Highland was resurfaced from ELib nearly all the way to the park entrance. Also, they've done that bad block of Wightman between Beacon and Barflett (sic).
ornoth
2019-06-26 06:56:49
Most of the sidewalk from the Ft Pitt Bridge to Station Square has been repaved.  Well, the worst of has been repaved.  Made for a smiling commuter.
durishange
2019-06-26 15:26:40
The beat up section of the Mon Wharf parking lot that connects the Mon Wharf Trail to ramp up to Point State Park is being repaved!!
alleghenian
2019-06-27 01:03:49
I was in Braddock over the weekend. Milled pavement on Braddock Ave near the Rankin Bridge. It’s been four mostly nice days later, so I’m sure they’ve made progress since then.
stuinmccandless
2019-06-27 07:51:11
New asphalt on Bigelow STREET between Kaercher and Waldeck/Sylvan. The latter are still their usual perpetual mess, of course.
ornoth
2019-06-27 13:09:04
That's good news. Big climb with a great reward of a view.
durishange
2019-06-27 13:27:26
Does anyone know the status of the repair schedule to address the washout on the Duck Hollow Trail?  I rode it last night and found the large crevasse to be difficult to cross.
mjost7
2019-06-27 13:53:57
I think the most they've done for it is closed the trail and left it. I don't think it's on any timetable to be fixed, at least from previous discussion on here. BTW I am in awe of your 71kb JPG. I could fit 4 of those on one of my 1980s 360k 5.25" floppies.
edronline
2019-06-27 14:04:34
Thank you.
mjost7
2019-06-27 14:32:15
NST between industrial park and prison is gnarly. Lots of trees and branches down. Trail partially blocked.
edronline
2019-06-29 11:06:46
Knotweed? Poison ivy? I’ve seen both along there. It would help to know what tools to bring.
stuinmccandless
2019-06-30 14:07:35
It's limbs and branches from the trees. I go riding tomorrow am and see if any of it was cleaned up.
edronline
2019-06-30 18:23:50
Regarding the cut up trail between the Hot Metal Bridge and Eagle Lake it is a combination of root remediation and drainage/flooding issues that Pgh DPW is working on. To wit, response to my query from FOTR: "...Thanks for sending this over. Everyone's been asking us and it's the City department of public works working to fix some flooding issues and Trail routes along the trail. This is actually something we had asked them to do last September but never got completed. It is taking them a while but they will finish the project hopefully soon. ..." Maybe we can "encourage" the DPW to remedy these hazards by submitting 311 reports..... ..the squeaky wheel gets the oil... start squeaking...    
yalecohen
2019-07-03 18:25:10
Rode from Millvale-Alcosan-Homestead and then back to Millvale today. -Obviously it was 4th of July, so it was crowded on the popular parts of the trails, but I was out from 10:30-1:30 so I missed the crush of people. -The repaved portion of the Mon Wharf parking lot at the bottom of the ramp from the Point is AWESOME! No bumps now, so you can carry full momentum going each way. -Also, the edges of the concrete slabs/piers(?) on the small ramp into the river at the bottom of the Mon Wharf switchback ramp are spray painted blaze orange, so they actually pop out a little now and are much easier to see. All in all, it was a beautiful day to ride, but was starting to get a little warm when I finished up.
jrs
2019-07-04 18:05:42
The trail in the Hazelwood on the Green should be done today or tomorrow based on my "ride-by" today.  Workers were pouring the cement under the rail bridge today.  i"m not a cement expert so I don't know how long it takes for the surface to cure and be ready for use.
durishange
2019-07-10 12:34:07
I rode both directions between Hot Metal and Homestead last night. The surprise to me, and I suspect many others, is the several cuts in the pavement. Ostensibly to improve drainage? But boy are they a nasty surprise to hit in the dark. I’m sure the less inflated cyclists among us will get pinch flats here.
stuinmccandless
2019-07-10 13:10:26
I think someone else mentioned somewhere on here that the city is doing this to remediate cracks from tree roots / help stop pooling water. My guess is that this is temporary.
edronline
2019-07-10 14:30:21
JRS mentioned that the curbs on the ramp into the river, perpendicular to the trail at the bottom of the Mon Wharf ramp, were spray-painted orange. I learned that wasn't the DPW or Riverlife who did that, but a concerned citizen.
paulheckbert
2019-07-10 17:42:18
I'm away in a country that hardly gets any rain at all (Jordan) and has zero bicycle infrastructure and no bikes on the street, but I'm coming back to Pgh next week. Has anything bad happened with any of the trails with our climate change induced flash floods today? I saw pics online and it looks scary. Be safe everyone.
edronline
2019-07-11 14:31:13
I decided to challenge myself and try a metric century ride today on the trails from Millvale to Buena Vista on the GAP. For the most part, things went fairly well, but I was slowly tiring the last 10-12 miles. Hands & saddle mostly, but my energy too. My longest ride had been 50 miles, which I'd done maybe a dozen times in the past. Random Observations- -The trails were in good shape overall from the recent heavy rains, but there were still some debris washouts to look out for .  A stretch of the GAP in the Boston/Greenock area had taken some damage, but it looks like they had "patched" things up for the most part. It was just really rutted from all of the tracks that had dried in the mud from the storm. It wasn't that bad.  Thanks & appreciation to all of the volunteers/workers that fix these situations as quickly as possible. -A lot of people were out on the trails today because of the beautiful weather. -The GAP trail from behind the McKeesport police station down towards the marina has been freshly paved & marked. The parking lot next to it has been paved too. I think they put up a new Clairton Connector sign at the top of the parking lot on a telephone pole as you head toward the marina. -Eagle Lake is still in formation, but it's shrinking. -It looks like they filled maybe 2 of the "strips" from tree root/drainage damage on the trail between HMB and Sandcastle with some kind of temporary mix, so it's more of a slight bump now. -I saw 5 other cyclists on the Loop trail from Versailles to McKeesport. That is a record for me. The most I'd ever encountered on a ride is 1, so this blew it away by a mile.
jrs
2019-07-14 22:28:06
Sidewalk reconstruction work continues on West Carson St. They are almost done with the section on the around the Duquesne Incline footbridge, and they've started along Gateway View Plaza. It's unclear how far they are going to go with this work, but hopefully it goes all the way to the West End Bridge.
chrishent
2019-07-15 08:29:42
OK, this is a motorcycle observation but I suspect it holds true for bicycles, too. Those ubiquitous tar strips used to patch cracks in the street, are like ice in the hot sun. Riding up Perrysville Ave, easily a dozen times I felt my tires shift perceptibly any time I had to cross one of them, especially while in a curve. It was only for a few hundredths of a second at a time, but very unsettling.
stuinmccandless
2019-07-17 07:03:20
Same. I frequently have to fight it coming down the moderate-speed southbound descent on Greenfield toward the bridge, where the road's covered with that liquid patch. Horrible, dangerous stuff!
ornoth
2019-07-17 07:36:26
Ditto with the decorative cobble stones/bricks outside of the Morgan apartment building on the n shore trail. There's a gap between them and I feel my front tire shift when I hit them. Disconcerting.
edronline
2019-07-17 07:55:55
went riding at 630 am today on the NST. It's miserably muggy out. Be careful today (and tomorrow). They're also doing a 5k walk/run on the NST trail, starting at heinz field and going 1.5 miles up the trail toward millvale, and then back. So the trail will be crowded.
edronline
2019-07-20 10:13:11
Rode the Butler-Freeport Trail in its entirety today. Be wary of multiple locations where wash-out has occurred. There are also areas where I'm guessing they back-filled sand and it is very loose and not compacted, so if you are rolling a narrow tire, you might get sucked (my 25's very nearly sank me). Otherwise it is apparent in many areas surface run-off has eroded the trail, and quite deeply is places. The good news is 95% of the trail is good to go, but just keep a sharp eye for these other areas. They are passable, just not a speed. (*It does appear that the good folks who maintain the trail are in the process of trying to address these problems, so I don't want to sound like I'm just complaining or anything - im sure the calamities the weather has caused have been more than expected, and they're doing the best they can.) Cheers
atleastmykidsloveme
2019-07-21 18:09:16
The location isn't good either. A lot of it is in a valley. Hence all the runoff.
edronline
2019-07-21 20:51:55
^^Yep^^. Buffalo Creek runs alongside for the entirety, and for much of it is also beneath a hillside. So the trail seems to suffer from subsidence on the creek side - where the creek bank supporting the edge of the trail is undermined by heavy flow; but then also from surface erosion of water running off the hillside and crossing over the trail on its way to the creek. Double whammy...
atleastmykidsloveme
2019-07-22 11:35:10
Main paved trails up and down the rivers been ok since the rains/floods?
edronline
2019-07-23 13:16:22
I biked past Kennywood today and the trail there was fine.
paulheckbert
2019-07-23 23:32:07
I ran the NST this morning from Millvale to the stadiums -- all ok.
edronline
2019-07-24 07:52:42
Moorewood between Centre to Baum is closed one way towards Baum. They raised the building on that corner and have temporary barriers across the one lane. Didn't notice signage on how long that will last. Open heading into Shadyside, but expect heavy traffic during rush hours.
katzenmiau
2019-08-07 08:20:51
This weekend, Little Italy Days takes over Liberty Ave in Bloomfield. It's a bear to ride through during the festival.
edronline
2019-08-13 06:33:31
No one else on the planet cares, but it delights me every time I take it. The Yarrow lunar surface has been resurfaced!!! For me, it's a fun (and the shortest) way to get from the Boundary path to the Schenley Placenta. It basically allows one to climb 2/3rds of Joncaire up to Bouquet, avoiding most of the cobbles. It's a tiny, very steep sprint before a bit of flat, then another short sprint up the rest of Joncaire. And it used to be hell on Earth; now it's fresh smooth asphalt. It makes me happy, anyways.
ornoth
2019-08-13 07:55:32
how have I never known about Yarrow? riding up those cobbles sucks. I usually just take the sidewalk, but that isn't the greatest idea when there are lots of pitt students walking around. Now I gotta go ride it!
edronline
2019-08-13 09:54:16
A good bit of Perrysville Ave got blacktopped, covering up holes from lead water pipe work. Most notable from Riverview to Vinceton/Bascom.
stuinmccandless
2019-08-14 12:36:47
What is the Schenley Placenta? Does it have to do with pregnancy?
zzwergel
2019-08-14 20:21:14
Placenta=plaza. Either a typo or some sort of humor that went over my head.
edronline
2019-08-14 20:25:31
Millvale riverfront Park completely closed. Looks like a tree down across the path between the boathouse and the bridge by the back channel. Doesn't look passable. No crews out working. Evergreen right by 28 also closed. Large pole and wires down. No crews working either. My guess is that the park won't be open for a few days.
edronline
2019-08-18 11:50:36
any news on Millvale Riverfront park's status? I think the park and the trail is now re-opened as I called Three rivers rowing and they said that you can get to the boathouse on the millvale side but he hadn't been back on the trail to see if the tree was gone.
edronline
2019-08-19 12:48:33
“how have I never known about Yarrow? riding up those cobbles sucks. I usually just take the sidewalk, but that isn’t the greatest idea when there are lots of pitt students walking around.” When I come the Panther Hollow trail, depending on where I am heading I use the following options: - up Yarrow, then onto the sidewalk on Joncaire to Bouquet - cross the tracks at Panther Hollow Lake now they the fence has been cut open and take trail up through Schenley to Bartlett Playground - go up Boundary and just over the tracks cut into CMU and walk through Scaife Hall, but only on weekdays as it is sometimes locked on weekends - into CMU and take the path that cuts up around the Gates building and come out on Forbes, or cut up through campus - continue up Boundary to either cut up onto Craig, or continue up to 5th
dave
2019-08-20 11:17:00
Plummer was closed at Butler St this morning. They are tearing down the building on the corner. Not clear how long that will go on.
katzenmiau
2019-08-20 12:07:10
@Dave A few months ago I decided to suggest to CMU to put runnels on the steps behind the new Tepper building down to Boundary. When I crissed tge tracks to snap a photo, to my surprise, the steps had been built with runnels! That's what I call RI...Real Intelligence vs AI. Chwck it out. It will get one to the upper campus at Tepper.
yalecohen
2019-08-20 13:57:24
Plummer was closed at Butler St this morning. They are tearing down the building on the corner. Not clear how long that will go on.
I think that was the building that collapsed on Saturday night during the microburst
edronline
2019-08-20 14:00:08
Sad: tstorm last Saturday took out a crapload of trees in Millvale riverfront Park Happy: they used the cleanup as an opportunity to finally clear the trail. Also fundraiser tonight behind the casino on the trail. It's a tight squeeze back there.
edronline
2019-08-23 11:09:25
It's quite narrow. And I assume there will be people walking to and from the building...
edronline
2019-08-23 13:18:29
Very narrow, I almost got impaled by someone driving a forklift through the narrow part... then a golfcart right behind it. What the hell, people?  
rustyred
2019-08-23 13:25:38
yeah, they really should have the detour go around the casino. I applaud them for trying to keep it open (a few fridays ago they were prepairing for a concert and they had the detour go all the way around the building, but ironically no one followed it since the trail was still open), but it's too narrow.
edronline
2019-08-23 16:15:26
Southside Trail will require toll starting October 1.... possibly to help defray cost of Eagle Lake remediation.. https://flic.kr/p/2h9bjUj
yalecohen
2019-09-01 23:24:55
per reddit the part of the north shore trail that starts at millvale and peters out on the rocks in shaler along the railroad tracks is impassable due to 2 trees being down from the microburst a few weeks ago. Most likely the trees are in shaler territory and it's unclear who will clear the trees, or if they'll sit there for months or years. Someone said that if you take the train tunnel, which is very dark, you can bypass the trees. The train tunnel starts right next to the turn-in driveway if you're on E Ohio and turning into the riverfront park.
edronline
2019-09-02 11:46:57
contacted Shaler Twp who said that while the trees were down in Shaler it's on railroad property, so they're going to contact the railroad.
edronline
2019-09-03 09:26:21
from shaler re trees down on north shore trail. I walked the trail this morning and found three areas of concern. I proceeded to speak with the foreman of the Millvale Road Dept and he stated that even though some of this area may be in Shaler Twp., Millvale Borough owns a majority of the property, before the tunnels heading north, so his road dept will handle removing the trees and debris. Thanks for letting us know about it.
edronline
2019-09-04 11:11:11
North shore trail past millvale Marina is open again.
edronline
2019-09-11 14:36:33
I don't think anyone uses it but the Elizabeth bridge is closed due to a crack. Unclear when will reopen.
edronline
2019-09-27 06:18:29
Bridge back open.
edronline
2019-09-28 10:35:03
was riding on southside trail just past the marina today around noon when 2 younger guys riding motorized bikes (gas engines) came speeding down the trail. I used my hand to signal them to slow down and instead the 2nd guy mocked me and sped off. At least I was prepared for the mocking -- I have teenagers.
edronline
2019-09-28 14:40:20
Unrelated to the foregoing, here it is September, and I am still seeing broken pavement in various places. I am beginning to lose hope that said holes will be patched before winter, and that they will merely get deeper and larger before April rolls around. Too many to name.
stuinmccandless
2019-09-28 23:04:03
Today, I noticed three new speed humps on Edmond St. between Friendship Ave. and Penn Ave.
zzwergel
2019-10-04 21:14:05
Major street closures near 10th and Penn this morning (10/28) with a bus having fallen through the street.  Bike lane is blocked on Penn from 11th through 10th, so either take riverfront trail, or carefully use sidewalks.  Businesses on Penn are still open for now.
dave
2019-10-28 10:36:56
Big hole in 10th slowly being filled in with gravel, 10th street closed between Penn and Liberty, which are both open.  Penn Bike Lane blocked near 10th street, plus intermittent truck and worker movement plus gawkers.
dave
2019-10-29 11:00:16
Newly painted bike lanes on East St between Evergreen and Perrysville.  Also other side of the road newly painted bike lane on Mairdale all the way up to Perrysville.
jstalnaker2112
2019-11-05 12:01:00
California Ave on the north end of Bellevue, into Avalon, badly torn up from recent utility work. One steel plate with no asphalt or other buffer, so careful for pinch flats.
stuinmccandless
2019-11-06 06:30:19
It appears the bike lane east of the “sinkhole” has now become the parking area for any and all service vehicles in the area.  How can we suggest they use the opposite side of the street, which frequently is used for short term parking as well as MegaBus farther up the street. As it is now, cyclists heading east in the bi-directional bike lane now swerve into oncoming traffic on one way Penn Avenue. I might try some 311 requests, give it a week, then start calling 911.
dave
2019-11-06 21:31:02
Hello. I ride through there every morning and night too. It is an inconvenience, yes, but there is also a massive sinkhole downtown that needs to get fixed before the weather gets worse. Call me crazy, but calling 911 about this may be a bit extreme. I find that just taking my time and going around it when the coast is clear works well. It is more difficult when traveling towards the strip (east), of course, but we're lucky we have a bike lane there to begin with. I hate cars parked in bike lanes more than anyone and I usually tell the driver just that when I come across them. But this is a bit of an extreme situation and involving 911 seems a bit over the top, I think.
chrispissingrivers
2019-11-08 12:10:26
Gotta agreewith pissing4chissakes ... However...there's always an however.. DLC, etc... the blockers should provide flagpersons to direct traffic as necesary... at least as a courtesy and to send a appropriate messages to the bike.pedestrian.driving community...and may be requured legally. I saw this once before. I forget who needed to access the bike lane..and this was 3 or 4 years ago.. they were working on abuilding I think..and there were persons of a flag persuasion...what a pleasant, welcome, and thoughtful surprise. ... the only thing they could have sone is offered complementary snacks or Amazon giftcards and as Liberty Avenue is around-the-corner... I reported it to ScottB and/or EricB of B.Pgh... and the attitude was... hey, we gotta send them a thank you note!! (even though they weren't giving out Amazon gift cards...and since they didn't come to Pgh, who needs them anyway). Kudos to BP... Flagpersons are in order..  
yalecohen
2019-11-08 22:24:45
Apparent icing on the trail along the Allegheny on the downtown side, starting near the Warhol bridge. Meant to go past the bridge towards the convention center but decided to turn back, as it looked a little too slick for non-studded tires. The trail around the Point is clear. The Ft Pitt Bridge sidewalk has snow on the downstream side, but it is passable; the ramp into PSP is clear, too. I rode from Neville Island, and the bike lanes there are clear, save for the occasional puddle. The Fleming Park bridge bike lanes have some snow on them. These will likely not be plowed or salted all winter, due the new single lane configuration and the bollards separating the bike lane.
chrishent
2019-11-12 18:26:11
Late Tuesday afternoon, safe bet that every surface is icy.
stuinmccandless
2019-11-12 18:52:15
Some sidewalks near Kraynick's were icy. I slipped and fell twice as I was walking to the 87 from there at around 5:20 PM. Use caution
zzwergel
2019-11-12 21:30:28
There's lots of very thin ice out there, in shady areas and especially on bridges like Hot Metal and paths like Pocussett St. Roads that get car traffic are clear. I'm glad I put my snow tires on last night.
jonawebb
2019-11-13 14:20:25
Ice patch on upstream sidewalk of 62nd St. Bridge. near Butler St. Use caution heading toward Morningside. Transport St. appears to have fresh asphalt between Glenbury St. and Tariff St. Snow on steps from Central Shelter to Overbrook
zzwergel
2019-11-16 18:46:56
Call me crazy, but calling 911 about this may be a bit extreme.
City wants us to call 911 for any parking in any bike lane. 311 will tell you to call 911. And this is what I call every time when I see car in bike lane and driver does not want to move his/her vehicle.  
mikhail
2019-11-16 21:29:57
...yeah, that sounds like a great use of resources.
chrispissingrivers
2019-11-19 09:50:54
*Police departments require even non-emergency calls to route through 911 dispatch as a means of, if nothing else, recording the report and collecting consistent information. It's not so much a matter of "police resources" as there are 911 call centers and dispatchers that farm the requests out to the relevant departments and/or agencies. So it's not overkill, its just best practice at this point, and, it's how the local PD *wants* to be contacted.
atleastmykidsloveme
2019-11-19 10:08:11
Negley Ave at Penn Ave heading to Friendship Ave is blocked right after the light with a temporary sidewalk as whatever construction happens at the old babyland building. Whole group of buildings are fenced off. I assume will be annoying in heavy commuting times, as it's much easier to zip past on a bicycle than motor vehicle here. If there will be more trucks and/or equipment, that may take over the right hand lane of Penn Ave heading towards E Liberty neighborhood.
katzenmiau
2019-12-10 18:34:41
Eagle Lake (near the Glenwood Bridge) was icy when I was there on 12/21, but the boardwalk was helpful. Thanks to whoever put in that boardwalk a few months ago (I'm pretty sure it wasn't Friends of the Riverfront and it wasn't the birders). https://flic.kr/p/2i4z3PK
paulheckbert
2019-12-23 22:43:46

The deep mud on the Mon Wharf was just cleared by Pgh DPW....The ramp is now clear to get to The Point...Though there is some mud along the route it's dry and superficial.

yalecohen
2019-12-27 16:34:39
Heavy snow, obviously. At 8:30 the side streets had packed snow and difficult going. Pocussett Trail was plowed. Eliza Furnace and the Hot Metal Bridge were not.
jonawebb
2020-02-07 09:03:28
https://flic.kr/p/2iYFQ2Q sidewalk coming out of Panther Hollow towards Second Avenue.  Since the chute is narrow, I recommend taking the lane going this direction. But coming up this slope, the sidewalk coming out of the 2nd Avenue chute is preferred, but has been blocked recently.  Not exactly sure who to notify, so I will try some of the usual suspects.
dave
2020-05-07 17:12:08
I've been through that bridge twice in the last week - the first time the sign was on the sidewalk, but on Tuesday, it was in the sreet where it belongs.  Thx,
mick
2020-05-14 00:57:06
No ice on any of the trails.  However one of the large cement barricades at the bottom of Serpentine has been moved, so now it is easier to access for anything smaller than a car.  It may have been moved so the Park Rangers can get their ATV through.
dave
2020-05-28 14:31:24
The barrier at the bottom of Serpentine might also have been moved because I have asked DOMI, the Park, the Park Conservancy (and everyone else I could cc) multiple times since December to do this, and so have other folks.  Recently I've been asking people I see working their way around the barrier and complaining on Facebook to file 311 requests.   So maybe this is actually a response to many requests.   Half a dozen requests on the same problem has much more effect than a single request, but it doesn't take dozens for little stuff like this. Next challenge:   Behind Phipps, at the end of Frew St extension, there's a locked gate between the Phipps buildings and lower Panther Hollow Trail.   This is where lower Panther Hollow Trail does the switchback onto cobblestones to climb up to the vistor center.   This gate has a panic bar on the Phipps side, so it is just a matter of pushing on the bar to go into the park.  However, the gate is locked to prevent passage from the park side, and it has recently acquired a "no entry" sign (don't recall the wording).  I'm told that some agreement actually requires the gate to be open. So, now that the bottom of Serpentine is open, start 311'ing the locked gate behind Phipps.  Maybe we can get that fixed, too.   It's not like it requires a structural engineering study and a capital budget allocation ;-)
maryshaw
2020-06-01 10:18:53
Is the north shore trail very crowded currently with walkers and hard to ride a bike?
augie
2020-06-17 19:26:42
Rode through a dry Eagle Lake yesterday.
dave
2020-06-18 10:48:25
The barriers at the bottom of Serpentine have been moved to block access again.
dave
2020-06-22 09:11:58
@Dave -- Bottom of Serpentine has been fluid for the last few weeks.
  • Between May 25 & 27: center jersey barriers moved to create ~5-6 ft gap.  Hurrah!
  • June 11 or 12: center jersey barriers moved back to block the road.  Bummer. Reported to PPC
  • June 18: Public Works told  PPC that DOMI wants it closed
  • June 19: I asked DOMI to open it up,  there's no other reasonable way through, it's already heavily used, etc.   Bike Pgh is also working on opening it.
  • Between June 17 & 20 (last Saturday):   The jersey barrier at the sidewalk end has been moved so that it no longer blocks the sidewalk
Is your report that the jersey barriers have been moved again this morning to re-block the sidewalk, or are you reporting that the opening in the middle was closed? Opening up the sidewalk is progress, but there's still an issue with curb cuts.  On the downhill side the curb cut is close enough.   However, on the uphill side you must either hop the curb or continue past the end of the sidewalk and cross a bit of grass to reach the curb cut.   I would actually prefer a 4-ft gap at road level instead of the sidewalk, but opening the sidewalk is actually progress.
maryshaw
2020-06-22 09:46:24
I was reporting that the middle gap had closed again.  I did file a 311 indicating the sidewalk was blocked, and the road invites entry at the top but does not have exit space at the bottom.  Worst case scenario a disabled individual goes down the hill on the street and has to backtrack.
dave
2020-06-22 14:09:22