A key bridge connecting Oakland and Squirrel Hill will fully reopen for the first time in two years.
While the Panther Hollow Bridge temporarily allowed cars for July’s Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, the Schenley Park roadway has been closed since Oct. 2024.
Reported concerns during a safety inspection prompted the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure to assess the structure. The department then worked with inspectors and engineers to create a repair plan.
In 2025, local contractor Mosites Construction was awarded the project. Officials report the project’s budget remained under the original $2.23 million estimate.
The Panther Hollow Bridge spans 640 feet and was built in 1896, then refurbished in 1999. Repairs began Feb. 2026, including general maintenance, drainage improvements and steel truss retrofits.
Construction recently completed with no major setbacks.
Many Pittsburgh drivers were using Panther Hollow Bridge as a detour for fellow Schenley Park bridge, the Charles Anderson Bridge, which closed in 2023 for repairs. Work on that bridge is expected to end by 2028.
Cars will be able to cross Panther Hollow by 7 a.m. on Friday.