PITTSBURGH – President Joe Biden announced today that Pittsburgh will receive more than $142 million in federal funding to fix the longstanding issues plaguing the Parkway East, including the notorious bathtub area. The funding is part of a larger $5 billion infrastructure initiative touted by the Biden administration.
The bathtub, which refers to the section of the Parkway East running alongside the Mon Wharf Downtown, has been a constant problem due to flooding during periods of high water levels in the Mon River. The flooding occurs when the river spills over the concrete wall, causing significant disruptions to traffic and safety concerns.
The federal grant will be utilized to construct a new wall that will serve as a barrier against rising water levels, effectively preventing future flooding incidents. Additionally, the funding will support the implementation of advanced safety measures along the Parkway East. These measures include the installation of variable lanes and speed limits, as well as a sophisticated system to detect and address wrong-way drivers. These enhancements are expected to reduce the frequent crashes that have plagued the Parkway East, leading to an above-average accident rate.
During the announcement, President Biden highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in the United States. He emphasized that America, once regarded as having the best infrastructure globally, has fallen to 13th place due to a lack of investment in critical projects.
We have neglected our infrastructure for far too long. It’s time to reinvest in ourselves and reclaim our position as a leader in infrastructure, President Biden remarked.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg will visit Pittsburgh on Friday to provide further details about the funding allocation for the Parkway East. The Biden administration outlines that the Parkway East project is one of 37 initiatives set to receive funding from the $5 billion infrastructure package unveiled on Thursday.
Earlier this year, the Pittsburgh area secured an additional $132 million to address another pressing issue: deteriorating bridges. The majority of this funding will be utilized for the repair of the Fort Duquesne Bridge. The West End Bridge will receive $47 million, while the McKees Rocks Bridge will undergo repairs amounting to $25 million.
The infusion of federal funds to address critical infrastructure concerns in the Pittsburgh area comes as a welcome development for local residents and commuters. The comprehensive improvements to the Parkway East, including the bathtub area, are expected to enhance traffic flow, increase safety, and alleviate the burden of frequent flooding incidents.
With the recent funding announcements, the Pittsburgh region is poised to undergo a significant transformation in its infrastructure landscape. The repair and enhancement of critical roadways and bridges will not only improve convenience for local residents but also contribute to the overall economic growth and development of the area.
As the administration continues to prioritize infrastructure investment, Pittsburgh serves as a prime example of the positive impact that federal funding can have on communities across the country. The rebuilding of America’s infrastructure is a crucial step towards securing a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
