In a significant step forward, Pittsburgh's Esplanade project, a plan to redevelop a 15-acre tract of old industrial land on the city's North Side, gained unanimous approval from the City Planning Commission. The ambitious development, guided by Piatt Companies, includes various amenities to revitalize the area, including a permanent Ferris wheel and an array of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The project, promising to weave itself into the existing city fabric, strongly emphasizes public accessibility and year-round attractions.
Described as a potential boon for local employment and economic growth, the Esplanade project could generate an estimated 4,500 permanent jobs and promise the region a $1.5 billion economic output. According to details reported by WPXI, the developers have committed to leveraging local and regional talent in the construction phase and offering job training programs for Manchester residents. Testifying before the Planning Commission on Tuesday, Dr. Frederick Manion, a lifelong Manchester resident, hailed the project as "a win-win for our community."
The first phase features include a 300-unit apartment building, 20% of which will be designated as affordable housing, a pavilion with restaurants and shops, and enhancements to the riverbank.
The additional attractions of the development cater to year-round enjoyment, including the planning of ice skating rinks and other winter activities. A representative for Piatt highlighted the project's potential flexibility by saying, "We’re looking at year-round activities, fountains, plazas, potential parks where you could have multi-uses like a farmer’s market, a winter festival, you could have food trucks as a pop-up," according to an Audacy report. The project also plans to incorporate the aesthetic of the Manchester/Chateau neighborhood with brick and steel work, seamlessly blending into the historic locale.
With a groundbreaking expected in 2025, the Esplanade aims to complete its first phase between 2027 and 2028. It goes next to the City Council for a vote, which, if successful, will set the stage for transforming the North Side's disused industrial sprawl into a dynamic hub of recreation, commerce, and community.
