After $4 million and two years of renovations, Mt. Lebanon’s new Washington Road was unveiled during a street party Saturday.
“It’s been a long, long two years,” said Laura Pace Lilley, the community’s public information officer. “One of the things that I think some people have the misconception about with this project is that it was cosmetic in nature. It was very related to infrastructure.”
The renovations included an upgrade to the road’s lighting, sidewalks, electrical conduits and flower beds.
Ms. Lilley said the previous streetlights were not being produced anymore, so if they were struck by a vehicle or otherwise damaged, there would be no way to replace them.
The street party, called “Uptown Unveiled,” featured bands, drinks, food, and oversized games on the roadway. Different organizations had tents set up, and the Mt. Lebanon Fire Department was out with a truck.
“I feel like it was a worthwhile project. As a walking community, I think it really enhances what we’re looking to do overall,” said Bruce Dahlen, a resident for 25 years.
The Mt. Lebanon Partnership worked with the municipality to fund, plan and execute the project, said Chris Reidenbaugh, president of the partnership, which promotes economic growth.
“It's nice to see that the work that we do, in conjunction with the municipality, can help bring people up to uptown, and then you know they appreciate the fact that they can use all the great businesses up here,” Mr. Reidenbaugh said.
Eric Milliron, Mt. Lebanon’s commercial districts manager, pointed out his favorite part of the project — the streetlights.
“They’re dark-sky technology, so it doesn’t add to light pollution, and they are very effective at illuminating the sidewalk,” Mr. Milliron said.
An upcoming phase of the continuing project will include placemaking — creating public spaces that Mr. Milliron called “nodes” that encourage people to linger and spend time in a place.
The placemaking will include public artwork and signage to help guide visitors.
Ms. Lilley said some of the placemaking will take place by the community’s T stop, which is tucked away behind businesses on Washington Road.
“So part of the hope is to make that an area where you step off the T, you know you're in Mt. Lebanon, and you have easy access to Washington Road,” she said.
Joel and Amber Marchewka said they are happy with the improvements, and Mr. Marchewka added that he is excited about those renovations planned for near the T station.
“It's wonderful to have our sidewalks back. I know it's been a struggle. They're beautiful. It turned out really well,” added Ms. Marchewka, a lifelong resident of the area.
Pashek + MTR, an architecture and community planning firm, had a booth set up on the street to collect feedback from community members on what they want to see next — including the potential redevelopment of the South Parking Garage near the municipal building and the long-term vision for Washington Road.
“I have really enjoyed just talking with people in Mt. Lebanon about their desires for the future. Everybody here is so engaged in the community,” said Jenni Easton, project manager at Pashek + MTR.
Jean and Lisa Valentino, who live on Washington Road, said one thing they’d like to see is a crosswalk near the South Parking Garage for easier accessibility and convenience.
“I’d be curious to find out what they are going to do next and how long it’s going to take,” Jean Valentino said.
First Published: August 5, 2023, 10:06 p.m.
