Pittsburgh Regional Transit launched two major light-rail projects on Thursday that will increase reliability and improve safety.
The Plinth Project will repair and replace the plinth, the concrete beam that supports the tracks, while the Rail Grinding Project will restore the profile of the rail by removing defects and bringing the rail up to a uniform standard.
The Plinth Project continues a project began in 2022 and will be completed in two sections. Section one work will be conducted through early February. Rail service from the South Hills will temporarily end at First Avenue Station. Section two work will be conducted from early February to early March. Wood Street Station will be out of service, and light rail will not operate between Steel Plaza and Gateway stations.
The $1.5 million Rail Grinding Project will run between January and March this year and in 2026. Work will occur on weekdays with some overnight and weekend hours if needed. No station will be taken out of service, but platforms will close and rail cars will be single-tracking. Signs will be posted.
Rail grinding extends rail life, reduces wear on the rail car wheels and improves ride quality. Work will be conducted in sections.