River Renewal

Economic Benefits of River Renewal

Just Add Water: Pittsburgh's Economic Growth Flows From Three Rivers

Once thought of as the "backdoors to the city," Pittsburgh's rivers have reclaimed their role at the center of Pittsburgh's latest renaissance. Once dominated by industry and pollution, the riverfronts are now seen as vehicles for growing the economy and advancing Pittsburghers' quality of life.

The story of Pittsburgh began at the confluence, and the future of the city will continue to unfold in relationship to our three rivers. Riverlife is dedicated to helping the citizens of Pittsburgh seize the economic potential of a new river park system, enhance the urban experience, reconnect the city to our rivers at the heart of the region and fuel a resurgence of growth in the new century.

Sustainable riverfront development, along with cutting-edge design and a dedicated community, has helped many cities transition from post-industrial stagnation to new economic growth.

1. Louisville's 55-acre park on the riverfront created a 28% increase in business development, and waterfront workers there have increased from 350 to 5,300.
2. Chattanooga's Riverfront Park has spurred $500 million in private investing.
3. Chicago's 25-acre Millennium Park is projected to create $2.6 billion in visitor spending and have a $1.4 billion impact on real estate in the next 10 years.

Riverlife sees that same economic potential right here in Pittsburgh. In fact, it is already happening:

1. From 2000-2009, over $5 billion was invested in Pittsburgh's riverfront development, half of it private.
2. More than $500 million has been invested in LEED-certified Green Buildings, of which Pittsburgh has more than 50 either built already or under construction.

The development of the riverfront has created significant new opportunities and has redefined Pittsburgh's Downtown. Three Rivers Park, an expanse of hundreds of acres along 13 linear miles of waterfront, has amazing potential. With new business headquarters locating their operations along the shores of the Allegheny, Ohio and Monongahela, Pittsburgh's Downtown is effectively expanding across its riverbanks. Businesses enjoy increased visibility, extraordinary views and park amenities at their doorstep for their employees.

Three Rivers Park also supports a significant increase in downtown residential living. Hundreds of new residential units have sprung up along the rivers since the development of the Vision Plan and park construction began. The lives of these new Downtown residents are enhanced by the outdoor enjoyment, healthy lifestyle, and recreational opportunities created by the park.