Take Aways from Open Streets PGH 2025
Summer in Pittsburgh brings one of my favorite traditions: Open Streets PGH — a time when miles of city streets are transformed into vibrant, car-free spaces full of people, movement, and connection. It’s more than just a fun day out; it’s a living example of what our neighborhoods can be when we prioritize people over cars.
Why it matters
Open Streets is a powerful reminder of how our existing, shared spaces can serve community in new ways. It’s also an opportunity to engage — a practice that is at the heart of what we do at evolveEA.
An opportunity to shape the future
Events like Open Streets PGH provide us with a testing ground of ideas that have the potential for creating more connected, healthy, and sustainable communities. They also give us a unique chance to listen, gather input, and dream together. Our team gathered feedback on the Allegheny County Climate Action Plan and the Wilkinsburg Pedestrian Plan — both efforts led by evolveEA — and asked participants to prioritize what matters to them: Safer bike lanes? More trees? Wider sidewalks? Better transit? By engaging residents directly, we can collect ideas and that help guide and influence decision making which reflects the needs of the communities in which we live, work, and play.
Varun Shah (left), evolveEA, chats with a cyclist about Wilkinsburg’s streets at Open Streets 2025
Get involved
The next Open Streets PGH event is July 29th in the Strip District. Its a great opportunity to meet with organizers, non-profits, and city partners. Your voice helps shape how we prioritize safe, inclusive, and welcoming public spaces for everyone.