Published on March 10, 2026
Pittsburgh, PA — The Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) announced that work started today on the second Phase of the Penn Avenue Reconstruction Project to improve the pedestrian streetscape along Penn Avenue in Garfield and Friendship. Penn Avenue eastbound/outbound will be closed between Evaline Street and Graham Street.
The closure is expected to be in place for the next 24 months (two years). This second phase of Penn Avenue Reconstruction follows Phase I (Mathilda Street to Evaline Street) and will consist of full-depth reconstruction of all surface-level infrastructure in the project area, including the street, curb, sidewalk, ADA ramps, traffic signals and streetlighting, as well as other mobility, safety and placemaking improvements.
“Penn Avenue Reconstruction Phase II reflects years of planning and design,” said DOMI Acting Director Jeff Skalican. “This full reconstruction will modernize the corridor’s infrastructure while improving walkability, safety, accessibility and the overall streetscape for the Garfield and Friendship neighborhoods.”
During construction a set of detours will be required to allow contractors to complete the necessary work. Detour routes are subject to change as conditions require although the below posted detours are in effect as of today:
Eastbound/Outbound through traffic will be detoured onto Main Street to Liberty Avenue to Baum Boulevard to Negley Avenue back on to Penn Avenue (red line in the above map)
Eastbound/Outbound traffic originating north of Penn Avenue will be directed to Broad Street (green line on the above map)
Westbound/Inbound traffic will be open and maintained on Penn Avenue
The closure will affect some bus lines with eastbound/outbound traffic detours onto Winebiddle Street to Friendship Avenue to Roup Avenue back onto Penn Avenue. The three eastbound/outbound bus stops on Penn Avenue between Evaline and Graham Streets will be out of service during construction.
Public outreach for the Penn Avenue Reconstruction Project began with the community in 2019. Since then, DOMI has held multiple community meetings to disuss the project, solicit feedback and answer questions. Residents and commuters can sign up to receive regular biweekly updates on the progress on the project’s EngagePGH page.
The project is being funded by the City and the Federal Highway Administration with partners at Gulisek Construction Company, Trans Associates Engineering and Whitman, Requardt and Associates, LLP.
Molly Onufer
Press Secretary
molly.onufer@pittsburghpa.gov