Officials prepare for Pittsburgh St. Patrick’s Day weekend celebrations
Photo Credit: (MGN Online)
March 15, 2019
PITTSBURGH — Public safety officials in Pittsburgh are preparing for one of the biggest party weekends of the year.
In a statement, city officials say police vehicles in downtown Pittsburgh will dawn a special St. Patrick’s Day decal to help commemorate the celebration.
When it comes to safety, Pittsburgh Police are planning several road closures to allow for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
“We want everyone to enjoy the celebrations, but to do so in a safe and responsible manner,” said Pittsburgh public safety director Wendell Hissrich.
Officials say that several downtown roads along the parade route will be closed beginning at 7:30 a.m. Saturday.
Roads included in the closure are:
- Liberty Avenue
- Grant Street
- Boulevard of the Allies
- Stanwix Street
Authorities say the parade will begin on Liberty Avenue at approximately 11 a.m. and will run from 11th Street through 26th Street.
Affected roads are expected to reopen by 1 p.m.
Market Square will be the center of a family-friendly celebration, according to city officials. The Irish Society for Education and Charity, which organizes the parade, will hose the event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Police remind attendees that open containers of alcohol are not permitted.
Police will be out in full force cracking down on DUI drivers, according to officials. Authorities will be targeting anyone who drives under the influence.
“Please remember there will be zero tolerance for disruptive and illegal behavior,” said Hissrich.
Rideshare and taxi services like Lyft, Uber and Z-Trip will all have discounted fares for the holiday weekend, according to officials.
Assisting Pittsburgh Police will be officers from the Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Police Department, mounted police officers, law enforcement from local universities and other public safety partners.
City officials also warn younger partygoers to leave fake ID’s at home and encourage underage drinkers to not consume alcohol.
“Liquor Control Enforcement agents will be undercover to assure that bars and restaurants don’t serve alcohol to those under 21,” said Hissrich. “Underage drinking, fake ID’s, alcohol poisoning, DUIs, falls from roofs and balconies are some of the illegal and dangerous behavior we’ve seen on St. Patrick’s Day.”
