The official 2026 NFL Draft activation space was unveiled Monday, with city and county officials on hand to show it off. They say it\u2019s designed to make a powerful first impression.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a chance to celebrate Steelers nation. We know Steelers fans will travel from near and far, many arriving right here to be a part of this historic moment for our region,\u201d said Dan Rooney with the Pittsburgh Steelers.<\/p>\n
The larger-than-life photo installation inspired by the official NFL Draft stage now welcomes all passengers arriving at Pittsburgh International Airport. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe NFL Draft, as we know, is much more than an event. It is a moment in time for Pittsburgh to truly shine,\u201d Jerad Bachar, CEO and President of VisitPittsburgh, said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt might be the first time that they experienced the region. I\u2019m eager to hear first impressions,\u201d Christina Cassotis with Allegheny County Airport Authority said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s quite elegant. It\u2019s very elevated. I don\u2019t know what I was expecting, but this has far exceeded what I was expecting,\u201d said Elizabeth Marshall, who flew into Pittsburgh for the first time on Monday.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s not just selling an airport this week, it\u2019s selling the city of Pittsburgh and the future,\u201d said Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O\u2019Connor.<\/p>\n
O\u2019Connor plans to come back to the airport on Tuesday to personally welcome future investors who are here for the draft.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor a visitor to hear about the city for 15 minutes from the mayor and you\u2019re looking to invest – only creates opportunities for our residents,\u201d O\u2019Connor said. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis is going to be the largest event that this region has ever hosted. These economic benefits and regional impacts are going to be massive and felt throughout Allegheny County,\u201d Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato said.<\/p>\n
The airport says that every single rental car the airport has is rented out for the draft. The NFL Draft activation will be here through the week.<\/p>\n
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