Pennsylvania Department of Transportation wins AASHTO award

© Pittsburgh Sports & Exhibition Authority

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) recently awarded the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) a regional America’s Transportation Award in the “Quality of Life/Community Development” category.

The award recognizes PennDOT for its part of the I-579 Cap Urban Connector project in Pittsburgh.

I-579 was built in the 1950s when homes and businesses in Pittsburgh’s Lower Hill District neighborhood were demolished to construct the Civic Arena and other developments. The highway separated the Hill District from downtown with retaining walls.

The I-579 Urban Open Space Cap project restores the direct link to downtown and creates three acres of green space. Residents now have access to public transit.

The project team sought feedback and incorporated the elements of water, green, destination, music, seating, and connection into the green space. The park includes an amphitheater, bike racks, accessible bike/pedestrian pathways, and integrated art designs from neighborhood artists.

The Pittsburgh Sports and Exhibition Authority sponsored the project. PennDOT oversaw the construction of the project, and Pittsburgh owns and maintains the park and recreation area.

The America’s Transportation Awards recognize state departments of transportation by highlighting projects that make communities a better place to live, work, and play. It is awarded in three categories according to the project’s size.