Pittsburgh's landscape has received a much-needed facelift, with the completion of three landslide remediation projects on the slopes of Mt. Washington. Mayor Ed Gainey and the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) held a ceremony marking the end of these initiatives to stabilize precarious terrain, ensuring the safety of the city's roads, trails, and residences. In a statement by the City of Pittsburgh, Gainey commented, "From the views on Mount Washington, to the roads and trails that connect us—our hillsides are part of who we are. But when they become unstable, they threaten the safety of our residents and disrupt daily life."
The three sites at Greenleaf Street, Reese Street, and William Street presented challenges due to various factors such as soil conditions and proximity to essential infrastructure. According to officials, a $13.3 million Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant funded by FEMA, and administered by PEMA, along with a 25% local match from the city, made these projects possible. This effort falls under Pittsburgh's broader strategy of proactive infrastructure planning, which the National Institute of Building Sciences suggests can save an estimated $6 for every $1 spent in mitigation efforts.
Each site required specific solutions to achieve stability. For example, the project on Greenleaf Street included deep soil stiffening elements, soil nails, and high-strength mesh. Reese Street saw the construction of a caisson wall, while William Street's solution involved retaining walls and drainage improvements.
The project's success can be attributed to various collaborations with entities such as PEMA, FEMA, CDR Maguire, Gannett Fleming, and several technical support companies. Special mention is given to E. Holdings, Inc., for leading public engagement and to the residents of the Mt. Washington and West End communities for their patience throughout the process. Now fully operational, the completion of the Greenleaf Street site by the end of May signifies the successful conclusion of these critical construction efforts. For more details on Pittsburgh’s resilience planning, the public can visit the EngagePGH platform.
