Pittsburgh Public Safety will have a strong presence at the city’s Light Up Night celebration Downtown Saturday.
More than 100 police officers will be deployed throughout the area, and the bomb squad will perform protective sweeps ahead of events, officials said Friday. The police bureau’s motorcycle and mounted units will be on hand.
Medics will be stationed Downtown, with an EMS River Rescue boat patrolling the waterways. The city’s fire prevention officer will inspect and monitor fireworks installations.
“Light Up Night is one of my favorite nights of the year in Pittsburgh,” Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt said in a statement. “It’s an opportunity to gather with friends and family to enjoy the holiday sights and sounds in our city’s vibrant Downtown corridor and officially kick off the holiday season. Pittsburgh Public Safety’s multiple departments will all be working hard to make the night safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
Light Up Night participants are encouraged to report to police any suspicious or unusual behavior.
The event last year drew about 90,000 attendees, according to Jeremy Waldrup, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership.
Pittsburgh Police, EMS, Fire and Emergency Management have been working with U.S. Homeland Security officials for months to plan for the event.
There will be several road closures before and during Light Up Night, starting at noon Friday. Road will reopen at 4 a.m. Sunday.
Closures include Fort Duquesne Boulevard westbound between Stanwix Street and Seventh Street; Penn Avenue from Stanwix to the Gateway light-rail station; Roberto Clemente Bridge; and Penn Avenue from Fifth Avenue to Stanwix.
No Parking signs will be posted throughout the area.
Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership recommends parking in the Grant Street Transportation Center, Market Square Garage and taking the free light rail service from North Shore parking lots. ParkPgh.org also offers real-time parking garage availability.