Think of the country’s most famous bridges. Now, think about them as venues for concerts, festivals, and other events. That’s what one Pittsburgh councilman has done.
Ed Kress is exploring the possibility of turning into venues the Roberto Clemente, Rachel Carson, and Andy Warhol bridges as a way to generate revenue for Allegheny County. He told Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 that if a bridge is closed for a weekend and used for an event, it could draw attendees from outside the city.
“Kress wants the county to look at what improvements need to be made to the bridge to make it better suited for large events,” reported Bob Hazen for Action News 4. “One obvious upgrade would be electrical outlets. At past events, vendors have had to bring generators. The county would also have to examine liability issues and how much security for the events would cost.”
Kress says that if the bridges can be opened for events, then entrepreneurs can decide the best way to increase revenue on them.
What do you think? Would you like to see an iconic bridge used as a large venue in your city? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.
(photo credit: JC McGreehan via photopin cc)
This is an extremely dangerous idea! Anyone who’s been in the military or in a marching band knows that you “fall-out” of step when crossing a bridge as the coordinated footstep concussion of a group of people can bring down most any bridge in the world. Recall the atrium bridge in the Houston Hyatt that failed from a relatively small group of people dancing to a regular beat.
Now if the bridges are to be used for only food vendors and such then there should be no problem — unless there is alcohol involved. However a music festival — even polka music — has the potential to bring the structure down.