Pittsburgh Launched Smithfield Street Redesign Project

The two-year construction initiative aims to modernize the historic corridor and improve pedestrian access.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration of industrial barricades and paving stones, depicting an urban street renovation project in Pittsburgh. — Pittsburgh has launched a multi-phase redesign project for Smithfield Street, aiming to modernize the historic corridor and increase pedestrian access. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Pittsburgh has officially begun a major redesign project for Smithfield Street, a corridor that dates back to 1784. The comprehensive project includes the installation of wider sidewalks, updated signage, and new landscaping.

Why it matters

The project serves as a long-term investment to transform the historic street into a more modern, pedestrian-friendly space for the local community. By collaborating with local tenants and business owners, the city aims to balance current business needs with urban improvements.

The overhaul spans a two-year construction timeline for a street originally laid in 1784. Infrastructure upgrades include the relocation of 10 outbound Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus routes to nearby Wood Street.

The players

Pittsburgh Regional Transit

This is the primary public transit agency responsible for operating bus and light rail services throughout the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

The details

Construction will occur in three distinct phases, with phase one currently focusing on the section between Forbes Avenue and Sixth Avenue. To facilitate the work, the city is restricting traffic, while temporary transit stops have been established at Sixth, Fifth, and Third Avenues.

1784: Smithfield Street was originally laid.
September 21, 2026: Construction work began on the redesign.
Summer 2028: Phase one of the project is expected to finish.

Market Landscape

This project aligns with a broader trend of urban centers prioritizing pedestrian-centric design to drive commercial activity in aging downtown corridors. By revitalizing historic districts, the city aims to compete with modern suburban retail environments.

Commuters should prepare for disruptions as 10 bus routes have been relocated to Wood Street, with temporary stops now active at Sixth, Fifth, and Third Avenues. Local shoppers and residents will encounter restricted traffic and active construction zones throughout the duration of the project.

The takeaway

The project signals a significant shift toward modernizing downtown infrastructure to better serve current pedestrian volumes. Residents and visitors are encouraged to check transit updates regularly as construction phases progress over the next two years.