South Shore Riverfront Park

Riverside Location and History

South Shore Riverfront Park is a 3.4-acre public space located along the south banks of the Monongahela River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The park stretches from 25th to 29th streets, situated on the former site of the Jones & Laughlin Steel Works.

Opened to the public in 2012, this park represents part of the city's efforts to revitalize its waterfront areas.

Trail Connections

The park serves as an important connection point for the Great Allegheny Passage and Three Rivers Heritage Trail, providing continuity for these popular hiking and biking routes.

Its design overcomes a significant 40-foot elevation change between the upper areas and the river level, using switchback terraces to create accessible paths for visitors.

Amenities and Features

A key feature of South Shore Riverfront Park is its 1,000-seat amphitheater, which can accommodate up to 2,000 people for standing events. This venue hosts various outdoor performances and community gatherings throughout the year.

The park also includes a public boat launch and canoe launch, facilitating recreational access to the Monongahela River.

Development and Expansion

The park's development was a collaborative effort involving multiple partners, including the City of Pittsburgh, Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), Riverlife, Department of Public Works, The Soffer Organization, and South Side Local Development Company. The total cost of the project was approximately $13 million, funded through a combination of public and private sources.

In 2017, additional improvements were made to the park, including an expansion across Water Street into Tunnel Park. These enhancements added new features such as a kiosk, pergolas, and signage to increase visibility and create a more welcoming atmosphere.