Cultural Phenomenon
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Showcasing a 'New America'
The Pittsburgh region has survived wrenching economic change and emerged with a balanced, innovation-driven economy renowned for health care and life sciences, technology and robotics, higher education and research, financial services, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy.
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A City Full of Diversity
As a city full of diversity, you will love exploring the culture, food, and atmosphere of Pittsburgh’s 89 unique and ethnically distinctive neighborhoods. Pittsburgh’s downtown is full of the city hustle and bustle, and Squirrel Hill has the quaint charm of a main street-like community. Meanwhile, Oakland, with its many universities, supplies a uniquely intellectual atmosphere. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and the unique people in them are just waiting for you to come and visit!.
Pittsburgh Cultural District
Contact: Veronica Corpuz, +1 412.471.6082, www.pgharts.org
Leveraging the Power of the Arts to Stage One of the Country's Most Successful Urban Transformations
Synopsis
The G-20 Pittsburgh Summit will take in the David L. Lawrence Convention Center within Pittsburgh's Cultural District. This vibrant district is a project of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and represents as a unique model of urban revitalization through the arts and a paradigm for successful public-private partnerships. Once a blighted "adults-only" neighborhood known for sex shops, prostitutes and XXX-movie theaters, the Cultural District today attracts over 2 million visitors annually and generates an estimated economic impact of $303 million.
Overview
Pittsburgh's third renaissance can be traced to H.J. "Jack" Heinz II, a founder of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Mr. Heinz envisioned a colossal transformation that would turn a city once called "hell with its lid off" into a thriving hub of world-class art and entertainment, buzzing with 24/7 activity. His vision was two-pronged: the arts could serve as a catalyst for economic, commercial and residential development of Downtown Pittsburgh, while enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
When other U.S. cities abandoned their respective downtowns for strip malls and big-box stores, Pittsburgh's Cultural District preserved its historical significance by leveraging the power of the arts to create an authentic destination that draws over two million visitors, arts lovers, students, residents and employers to over 1,500 events each year.
The District includes Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Pittsburgh CLO, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Public Theater, Pittsburgh Symphony and August Wilson Center for African American Culture, among hundreds of other arts groups and artists. The Cultural District is also home to the city's High School for Creative and Performing Arts.
Unlike other cities that house cultural activity within a single performing arts center, Pittsburgh's Cultural District comprises 14 blocks that were holistically developed with the creation of multiple theaters, art galleries, public art projects, urban parks and riverfront recreation spaces. For a list of the grand theaters of the Cultural District, art galleries, iconic public art projects and parks, visit www.pgharts.org
MEDIA »
Media Resources
Get the inside scoop while you report on the G20 Summit in Pittsburgh. Find story ideas and media contacts that have the information you need to make deadline.
Media Library
Before you file your story, get the finishing touches right here. From still photography to high-definition B-roll, we have the tools you need to make an impact on your audience.
ENVIRONMENTAL RENAISSANCE »
A view of the David Lawrence Convention Center
Green Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is leading the way in green initiatives. With green buildings located throughout the city and the nation’s first green convention center, we’re rethinking the cityscape and uncovering new ways to keep it green.
