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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 26, 2024 09:13 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Joe McAndrew |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Designating the Allegheny River Boulevard as a Scenic Byway |
| Influenced by the City Beautiful Movement, the Allegheny River Boulevard opened in 1934. The six-mile boulevard runs from the City of Pittsburgh through Penn Hills, Verona, and Oakmont, following the northward meander of the southern bank of the Allegheny River. Built in a time when the journey was just as important as the destination, the boulevard was designed with observation turnouts for people to park their cars and enjoy the scenic view. Unfortunately, the boulevard has been neglected for decades and has been labeled by Scenic America as one of the country’s “10 Most Endangered Scenic Byways.” The observation turnouts are overgrown, and barriers have been erected to prevent cars from entering. Today, many people are unaware of the purpose of these structures. However, there has been recent discussions to help preserve this historic roadway by designating it as a scenic byway. Penn Hills, Verona, and Oakmont have all passed resolutions supporting the effort. Building on this momentum, I am introducing legislation to designate the Allegheny River Boulevard as a scenic byway. This designation will help preserve the historic roadway while fostering economic opportunities, partnerships, and pride for the communities the road runs through. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to ensure future generations get to experience and appreciate the beauty of the Allegheny River Boulevard. The boulevard has been neglected for far too long, and it is time to recognize its historical and scenic importance. |
Introduced as HB2161