Some people are panicking that part of world-renowned Canton Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood — one of the steepest streets in the world at an incline of 37 degrees — has been paved over, but not to worry: It’s only a temporary situation after a water main break.
Part of the street — which is an annual challenge in the Pittsburgh Dirty Dozen bike race — had to be paved temporarily after a recent water main break. But by city ordinance, the cobblestone surface will be fully restored. Photos on social media show the top left corner of the street with asphalt.
Dan Gilman, chief of staff for Mayor Bill Peduto, said crews from Penn American Water had to repair a water main break on the hill over Thanksgiving.
“Penn American put asphalt in an emergency to make the street safe,” Mr. Gilman said. “There never was, never will be any attempt to replace the cobblestones on that street.”
Mr. Gilman said any attempt to pave over Canton or any other brick or cobblestone street would have to be approved by Pittsburgh City Council.
The street got international acclaim in 2016 when Audi closed the it down to film a commercial with its Quattro A4 challenging the hill in snowy conditions. Unlike many Pittsburghers who have tried, the stunt driver in the Quattro A4 defeated the steep grade.
Ed Blazina: eblazina@post-gazette.com, 412-263-470 or on Twitter @EdBlazina.
First Published: December 7, 2021, 4:11 p.m.
