October 2024 Update
As of October 25, all project activities that can be completed ahead of the truss installation are now complete.
This includes construction of the two new pier foundations and refurbishment of the existing abutments, removal of the old roadbed on Riverview Drive and stabilization of the ground in preparation for the new trail. On Davis Avenue, the stormwater system has been updated, overhead utilities have been relocated, and sidewalks have been rebuilt with improved accessibility.
As mentioned in the previous project update, there were supply chain issues procuring some of the rolled steel that makes up the bridge truss. However, the fabricator has confirmed receipt of all materials, and off-site fabrication is progressing with a delivery date scheduled for December 2024.
The contractor will be mobilizing in December to install the truss, but due to seasonal temperatures, crucial concrete and asphalt work will be delayed until Spring 2025.
We will continue to provide construction and schedule updates on this page as work progresses. In the meantime, we appreciate everyone's patience and cooperation with the on-going trail closures in Riverview Park.
Project Background
The Davis Avenue bridge reconstruction project aims to reconnect the Brighton Heights neighborhood to Riverview Park. The previous bridge, constructed in 1898, was a pin-connected, cantilever deck truss, and featured ingenuity for its day. However, the bridge lacked modern insight into necessary safety and maintenance features and had limited capacity for heavily-loaded vehicles. Ultimately, the bridge was demolished by the City in 2009.
The new Davis Avenue bridge will function as a bike and pedestrian bridge and feature modern building designs, materials, and insights, while emulating the aesthetic established by the prior bridge.
The Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) is anticipating the bridge opening to foot traffic by Fall 2024.
If you have any questions or comments, we would appreciate your feedback! You can use the Comment box, below, to share your thoughts with DOMI.
Public Art
Part of the design of the new Davis Avenue Bridge includes a public art piece that celebrates the rebuilding of this bridge between Riverview Park and Northside neighborhoods. This art project is made possible by the City of Pittsburgh’s Percent for Art program which matches 1% of the construction budget with a dedicated budget for public art.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Since the previous bridge was demolished in 2009, nearby communities have been requesting and building support for reestablishing a connection to Riverview Park.
The new Davis Avenue pedestrian bridge will provide a direct connection between the Brighton Heights neighborhood and the largest city park in the Northside (Riverview Park).
Yes, construction for the new bridge is fully funded.
Funding sources include municipal bonds, American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds, a Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) grant, and the Allegheny County Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF).
With the abundance of vehicle parking on Riverview Avenue near to the various park amenities (the playground, pool, pavilions, trailheads, etc.), there is no additional parking planned on Davis Avenue.
By designing and building a bridge exclusively for pedestrians and bicyclists, the required load-carrying capacity of the structure is greatly diminished.
This enables the previous bridge abutments to be reused, and the total area of impermeable pavement on Riverview Drive is reduced (which improves stability of the steep hillside). This means this project costs a fraction of the price of a full vehicle bridge.
