The Pittsburgh Stadium Authority board advanced plans Thursday for a 30,000-square-foot plaza outside PNC Park that will be anchored by a giant LED screen.
As reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, board members unanimously approved a site improvement plan related to the plaza, which is to be built at the corner of Mazeroski Way and West General Robinson Street adjacent to the home of the Pirates.
Stanley Lederman, authority board chairman, said approval was needed before the Pirates, who are partnering with HiLife Entertainment to develop the plaza, could take the proposal to the city’s planning commission and zoning board of adjustment for review.
“What we’re doing today is just paddling it up the river to the next step,” he said.
As part of an earlier action in April, the stadium authority required the Pirates to submit a site improvement plan for review by June 15.
Specifics are sketchy, but Lederman said the plaza would include a “big” LED screen — one he estimated at 40 feet or so — and beverage kiosks and food trucks.
“We’re exploring all options, including an LED screen, as part of our plaza amenities,” Herky Pollock, a partner in HiLife Entertainment said.
“Our plans, as well as our design, are somewhat fluid. We are working with all our design consultants to maximize the vitality and the vibrancy of this incredible site.”
According to Mark Belko of the Post-Gazette, the Pirates and HiLife Entertainment have said in the past that they are hoping to create a “destination attraction” that appeals not only to baseball fans but the general public.
The plaza will host concerts, movies, watch parties and fitness classes throughout the year, not just the 81 days the Pirates play at home, Belko reported. It will complement a first-floor, 15,200-square-foot restaurant and bar space that is part of the six-story apartment building. The bar/ restaurant will spill out into the plaza. The Pirates will own both, the Post-Gazette reported.
