Press Room

Rivers of Steel Receives New Capacity Building Grant from the National Park Foundation

Grant expands Rivers of Steel’s ability to update strategic plan to include DEAI initiatives.

Homestead, PA (January 21, 2021)—Rivers of Steel has received a grant from the National Park Foundation (NPF) that will allow for the re-examine the organization’s strategic plan to ensure that diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion (DEAI) are addressed in every area of its operations, projects, and programs.  Rivers of Steel is one of 36 park partner organizations to receive a Strong Parks, Strong Communities capacity-building grant from NPF, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service.

“The funds from this grant will help us fulfill the promise that we made to our partners and the communities of the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area in the wake of the tragic murder of George Floyd,” said Augie Carlino, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rivers of Steel. “Rivers of Steel is committed to telling the whole story of our industrial and cultural heritage—the stories that are good and those that are difficult and uncomfortable to discuss or admit.”

Through the strategic planning initiative, Rivers of Steel will engage with Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) members of the southwestern Pennsylvania community to develop programming and projects that focus on ending racism, bigotry, inequality, intolerance, injustice, and prejudice toward Black Americans, people of color, and other minorities.

The grant from NPF will provide resources to further Rivers of Steel’s efforts, which were catalyzed amidst the BLM movement of 2020. The initiative, entitled RESPECT – Re-Examination of our Strategic Plan for these Exceptional and Changing Times – will include a professionally facilitated strategic planning process with community members throughout the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area, including local members of the community. The RESPECT process will support Rivers of Steel’s parallel efforts initiated in 2020 for both the promotion and facilitation of black, indigenous, and people of color in the field of historic preservation and to expand resources for BIPOC-led organizations through its Mini-Grant Program.

Rivers of Steel’s efforts are also happening in conjunction with our partners: the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Museums, Galleries, and Cultural Institutions Working Group, the Greater Hazelwood Historical Society, and Boom Concepts, among others. The plan will also develop recommendations on ways Rivers of Steel can increase diversity among staff, board, partners, and audiences in historic preservation.

The Strong Parks, Strong Communities grant program helps address nonprofit park partner needs that have come to the forefront amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants enable park partners, including Rivers of Steel, to expand their impact through new technology, website redesigns, creative visitor engagement, strategic plan development, fundraising campaigns, professional development, and more.  A full list of Strong Parks, Strong Communities grantees can be on the National Park Foundation’s blog.

“The National Park Foundation is committed to increasing national park philanthropy across the board and being responsive to current needs,” said LaTresse Snead, chief program officer for the National Park Foundation. “The capacity-building grants help advance park partners’ goals to preserve natural and cultural resources, increase access to public lands for all people, and develop innovative programming.”

Strong Parks, Strong Communities is a collective effort to grow national park philanthropy, consisting of approximately 450 local philanthropic organizations across the United States.

About Rivers of Steel

Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

About the National Park Foundation

The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America’s national parks and nonprofit partner to the National Park Service. Chartered by Congress in 1967, the National Park Foundation raises private funds to help protect more than 84 million acres of national parks through critical conservation and preservation efforts and connects all Americans with their incomparable natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Find our more and become a part of the national park community at www.nationalparks.org.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.

Rivers of Steel   |   The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Ave, Homestead PA 15120

riversofsteel.com

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Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at Historic Pump House Celebrates New WindStax Wind Turbine

Congressman Mike Doyle, Lt. Governor John Fetterman, and County Executive Rich Fitzgerald spoke at socially-distanced event.

Homestead, PA (November 25, 2020)—Rivers of Steel celebrated the installation of a new WindStax wind turbine at the Pump House with a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday with elected officials, including Congressman Mike Doyle, Lieutenant Governor John Fetterman, and County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, and key stakeholders David Landis, president of Epic Metals and Ron Gdovic, the founder and CEO of WindStax Energy.

The venerable history of the history of the site was reflected in the comments from the Congressman and the Lieutenant Governor.

“We showcase industries of the future and we’re doing it here—commemorating our region’s proud industrial past,” said U.S. Congressman Mike Doyle. “This wind turbine behind us, it’s not only a symbol of Pittsburgh’s past and future…it’s also putting people on notice that Pittsburgh is going to be leading the nation in developing more sustainable energy technologies for the future.”

“The Pump House is a beautiful structure and what it stands for and symbolizes,” said Lieutenant Governor John Fetterman “I can think of no finer addition than something that celebrates our commitment to renewable energy, and acknowledging and celebrating the past, but moving on to the future.”

County Executive Rich Fitzgerald acknowledged the roles that businesspersons like David Landis and Ron Gdovic play in our region’s development.

“It’s folks like David and Ron—and the companies that they lead—are taking us to the next level of where we’re going to go as a region,” said County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. “I’m so proud because this place—western Pennsylvania—is showing the way for the rest of the country and the economy.”

The WindStax 40′ turbine, developed by Ron Gdovic and WindStax Energy, is comprised of state-of-the-art, large, vertical axis turbines that will offset the utility expenses at the Pump House with renewable energy, providing long-term support for Rivers of Steel through its ability to send the electricity it generates back to the utility grid. Funding for the wind turbine was donated by the Epic Metals Corporation Charitable Foundation, directed by David Landis.

Rivers of Steel’s President and CEO August Carlino also reflected how WindStax Energy and Epic Metals contribute to our region’s development.

“We talk about industry, and when we think about it, you think about these large industrial facilities like U.S. Steel that dominated this site,” said Carlino. “But what often gets lost in the history is the critical backbone to the support of these industries—and that is the medium and smaller sized businesses that literally employed tens of thousands of people, and still do throughout southwest Pennsylvania. Epic Metals is so symbolic of that—an industry that supports all that is going on—not just in the history of this region and this valley—but in the transformation of the region.”

In addition to comments given by the elected officials and Rivers of Steel, David Landis and Ronald Gdovic, spoke about the impact of this project.

David Landis recollected how the idea for this installation began in June of 2019, and mentioned how a similar installation at Epic Metals in Braddock provided power for one of their buildings, citing its environmental benefits: “The river valley provides a natural path for generating wind energy that does not create any pollution.”

“This is really a symbol of new energy,” said Gdovic. “Pittsburgh has always been an innovator in energy. This entire Mon Valley had so much power running through it, led by companies like Westinghouse and many others. Pittsburgh has always been known for its innovations in energy. This is really a testament to energies of the future.”

“This transition to renewable energy is such an opportunity, not only to southwestern Pennsylvania, but the United States, and the planet in general,” Gdovic continued.

Epic Metals, located across the Monongahela River in Braddock and Rankin, has been manufacturing steel roof and floor deck ceiling systems for more than 52 years.  Beginning in 2010, Epic Metals recognized the importance of sustainability. At its main office and manufacturing locations there are solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicle charging stations to reduce Epic’s carbon footprint. Mr. Landis is a member of Pittsburgh’s CEOs for Sustainability and on the Board of Trustees of the Braddock Carnegie Library.

WindStax Energy is a full-service developer of integrated renewable energy solutions. WindStax makes the largest vertical wind turbines in the United States. Their award-winning wind and solar microgrids are changing the industry’s perspective of “energy as a commodity” to “energy as an opportunity.”

The Pump House dates back to 1892 when it was built by the Carnegie Steel Company. That same year it was the site of the Battle of Homestead, a defining moment in the nation’s labor history. Today, the building and its adjacent water tower help to interpret the nationally significant events of 1892 and highlight the illustrious steel-making legacy of the region.

The Pump House is one of four historical attractions managed by Rivers of Steel. As the owner and steward of the Pump House and surrounding grounds, River of Steel secures its industrial and cultural legacy for future generations, while allowing for its use as a public and private multi-use site.

In the spring through fall seasons, it functions as a trailhead for the Great Allegheny Passage. The public is welcome to visit its grounds, which offer views of the Monongahela River, the Carrie Blast furnaces, industrial relics and public art, including a meditative stone labyrinth. Interpretive panels on-site help visitors gain insight into the importance of this historic site.

Private and group tours of the interior of the Pump House are available by appointment. It is also a popular venue for wedding receptions and family celebrations.

For more information about the Pump House or Rivers of Steel in general, contact Carly McCoy, director of marketing, via cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.

Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120

riversofsteel.com

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Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to Celebrate WindStax Turbine Installation at the Pump House

Congressman Mike Doyle, Lt. Governor John Fetterman, and County Executive Rich Fitzgerald scheduled to speak on November 24.

Homestead, PA (November 17, 2020)—Rivers of Steel is excited to announce that it, along with key stakeholders and elected officials, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newly installed WindStax 40’ wind turbine at the historic Pump House on November 24, 2020, at 11:00 a.m., located at 880 E. Waterfront Drive in Munhall, Pennsylvania.

“The installation of WindStax turbine is a symbol of one of the industries of our region’s future, installed in a location significant to our region’s past,” said August Carlino, president and CEO of Rivers of Steel. “It is reflective of our commitment to sustainability and would not have been possible without the generosity of the Epic Metals Corporation Charitable Foundation and the efforts of WindStax Energy.”

Congressman Mike Doyle, Lieutenant Governor John Fetterman, and County Executive Rich Fitzgerald are scheduled to be on hand to offer a few remarks regarding Rivers of Steel and to assist in the ribbon-cutting.  State Senator Jay Costa has been invited to attend, as well.

“The reclamation of the Carrie Furnace brownfield site, which Rivers of Steel calls home, was a long, arduous process to mediate the pollution of generations past. It’s rewarding to see investment by Rivers of Steel, albeit on an adjacent site, into a renewable energy resource like the windstax turbine installation,” said County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. “The care taken by Rivers of Steel to ensure that the air and water and ground remain unpolluted is a practice that we should all work towards and celebrate.”

The WindStax 40′ turbine is comprised of state-of-the-art, large, vertical axis turbines, which will offset the utility expenses at the Pump House with renewable energy, providing long-term support for Rivers of Steel. The wind turbine converts wind energy to electricity and sends that electricity back to the utility grid through net-metering. This electricity is measured by a meter, recorded by Duquesne Light, and will enable Rivers of Steel to receive a credit against its utility bill.

In addition to comments given by the elected officials and Rivers of Steel, key stakeholders David Landis, president of Epic Metals, and Ronald Gdovic, Ph.D., the founder, and CEO of WindStax Energy, will speak about the impact of this project.

“Massive power plants and electric utility infrastructure supported Pittsburgh’s manufacturing base since the Industrial Revolution,” said Gdovic. “Renewable energy has the potential to support industries of the future. Personally, it is an honor to provide a new energy solution to the historic Pump House in the shadows of the former mill sites in Homestead where my ancestors worked as immigrants in the past.”

WindStax Energy is a full-service developer of integrated renewable energy solutions. WindStax makes the largest vertical wind turbines in the United States. Their award-winning wind and solar microgrids are changing the industry’s perspective of “energy as a commodity” to “energy as an opportunity.”

Funding for the wind turbine purchase was donated by the Epic Metals Corporation Charitable Foundation, directed by David Landis in support of Rivers of Steel, its work, and programming at the Pump House.

Epic Metals, located across the Monongahela River in Braddock and Rankin, has been manufacturing steel roof and floor deck ceiling systems for more than 52 years.  Beginning in 2010, Epic Metals recognized the importance of sustainability. At its main office and manufacturing locations there are solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicle charging stations to reduce Epic’s carbon footprint. Mr. Landis is a member of Pittsburgh’s CEOs for Sustainability and on the Board of Trustees of the Braddock Carnegie Library.

The Pump House dates back to 1892 when it was built by the Carnegie Steel Company. That same year it was the site of the Battle of Homestead, a defining moment in the nation’s labor history. Today, the building and its adjacent water tower help to interpret the nationally significant events of 1892 and highlight the illustrious steel-making legacy of the region.

The Pump House is one of four historical attractions managed by Rivers of Steel. As the owner and steward of the Pump House and surrounding grounds, River of Steel secures its industrial and cultural legacy for future generations, while allowing for its use as a public and private multi-use site.

In the spring through fall seasons, it functions as a trailhead for the Great Allegheny Passage. The public is welcome to visit its grounds, which offer views of the Monongahela River, the Carrie Blast furnaces, industrial relics and public art, including a meditative stone labyrinth. Interpretive panels on-site help visitors gain insight into the importance of this historic site.

Private and group tours of the interior of the Pump House are available by appointment. It is also a popular venue for wedding receptions and family celebrations.

For more information about the Pump House or Rivers of Steel in general, contact Carly McCoy, director of marketing, via cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.

Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120

riversofsteel.com

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Rivers of Steel 2020 Mini-Grant Program Applications Available

Homestead, PA (September 9, 2020)—Rivers of Steel is now accepting applications for its Mini-Grant program, which assists heritage-related sites and organizations, as well as municipalities, within the borders of the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area. The Mini-Grants may be used to develop new and innovative programs, partnerships, exhibits, tours, and other initiatives that are consistent with the mission and vision outlined in Rivers of Steel’s Management Action Plan. The Mini-Grant program is funded by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, via DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program and the Environmental Stewardship Fund.

Proposals that increase heritage tourism, enhance preservation efforts, involve the stewardship of natural resources, encourage outdoor recreation and / or include collaborative partnerships are strongly encouraged.

Application Deadline: Thursday, October 15, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

Grant Awards Announced: December 2020, anticipated.

Rivers of Steel works to conserve the industrial and cultural heritage that defines southwestern Pennsylvania. Through its Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area program, Rivers of Steel champions the region’s natural, cultural, educational, recreational, and industrial resources as key components for preserving the region’s heritage, focusing on developing a sense of place, as well as contributing to the economic vibrancy of the region’s citizens and communities.

Applications are ranked using the following criteria: 1) a detailed and complete project narrative, 2) budget, 3) alignment for heritage tourism development, 4) and project outcomes.

New for 2020, special consideration will be given to organizations applying for the 2020 Mini-Grants that are black- or minority-led organizations or organizations that primarily serve BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) audiences and communities. Rivers of Steel reiterates our long-held belief in diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion and strengthens our commitment to fighting systemic racism and discrimination against people of color amidst the nationwide call for ending racism.

Non-profit organizations with a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt status, local governments and educational institutions are all eligible for the Mini-Grant program. All projects must be within or across Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Washington, or Westmoreland Counties and have a significant connection to the mission of Rivers of Steel. Grant requests for a minimum of $1,000 to a maximum of $25,000 will be considered. Applicants must match (at a 1:1 ratio) these grant funds with additional funding and/or pre-approved eligible non-cash (in-kind/volunteer) services.

More information and the application can be downloaded here [Word document].

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

About the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area

This eight-county region is one of 55 National Heritage Areas designated by the U.S. Congress and one of 12 State Heritage Areas. A National Heritage Area is a place of national significance to America. For Rivers of Steel, Congress recognized the industrial and cultural heritage of southwestern Pennsylvania. Through a public-private partnership with the National Park Service and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Rivers of Steel supports heritage conservation, heritage tourism, and outdoor recreation as a means to foster economic redevelopment and enhance cultural engagement.

Contact Amy Baldonieri at 412.464.4020, ext. 235 or by emailing amyb@riversofsteel.com.

Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120

riversofsteel.com

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Rivers of Steel presents LightPLAY—a light-based exhibition at the Carrie Blast Furnaces

Homestead, PA (September 1, 2020)—Rivers of Steel is excited to present LightPlay, an evening, light-based experience at the Carrie Blast Furnaces. Showcasing eleven unique multimedia installations created by a diverse group of local artists and engineers, LightPlay will be on display at the Carrie Blast Furnaces during select evenings from September 10 through October 1.

LightPlay features a range of video projection and light-based installations that engage with the site’s intricate structural characteristics, cavernous pathways, and unique industrial aesthetic. This one-of-a-kind experience includes immersive light and sound installations, digital video artworks, and illuminated sculptures that transform the former blast furnace into a sensorial maze.

Danny Bracken, Ian Brill, Aaron Henderson, Ryder Henry, Lori Hepner, Ricardo Iamuuri, Shohei Katayama, Todd Keebs, Julie Mallis, Projectile Objects, and Alisha Wormsley have contributed artworks to this exhibition.

“LightPlay is unlike anything we have done at the Carrie Blast Furnaces to date,” said Chris McGinnis, director of arts for Rivers of Steel. “We really wanted to try something new and exciting that would offer a COVID-safe viewer experience while highlighting the site in a different way.  Opening the site up for evening exploration provided just this type of opportunity. Visitors to LightPlay can expect a well curated evening complete with light art and video installations that feed off the site’s textures and introduce new locations at the Carrie Blast Furnaces—places never before open to the public!”

A project of Rivers of Steel Arts, LightPlay is made possible through the generous support of Eaton Corporation.

Tickets are $9 / person. Tickets for this special exhibition are timed to help to maintain adequate social distancing throughout the evening.

For more tickets and more information, click here or contact Chris McGinnis, director of arts, at cmcginnis@riversofsteel.com.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

About Rivers of Steel Arts

Rivers of Steel Arts celebrates creative inquiry by crafting opportunities to interpret the region’s past, reimagine its future, and explore a sense of place. Through exhibitions, festivals, workshops, tours, and happenings, Rivers of Steel Arts helps individuals connect with their communities in meaningful ways.

About the Carrie Blast Furnaces

Once part of legendary U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works, the Carrie Blast Furnaces are a vestige of Pittsburgh’s 20th-century domination of the steel industry. In 2006, Blast Furnaces #6 & #7 were declared a National Historic Landmark. Today, visitors to the site can connect with the region’s industrial and cultural past through a myriad of public tours and programs offered by Rivers of Steel.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.
Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120
riversofsteel.com

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Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area Visitor Spending Generates Economic Impact of $92 Million Annually

Homestead, PA (August 18, 2020)—Rivers of Steel released an economic impact study today that estimates the generation of more than $92 million of economic benefit and 922 jobs each year as a result of spending by visitors to Rivers of Steel and its partners, including the expenditures of Rivers of Steel on grantmaking, operations, and capital improvements.

• More than 25,000 individuals visit Rivers of Steel’s sites each year to participate in more than 50 experiences, attractions, and programs.
• More than one million individuals visit sites and programs operated by close partners throughout the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area region who have significant ties to Rivers of Steel and to the history and heritage they collectively showcase.
• Together with its close partners, this assessment estimates that Rivers of Steel influences or helps to attract more than 400,000 visitors to the region on average each year.
• Between 2016 and 2018, Rivers of Steel awarded an average of more than $71,000 in mini-grants per year awarded to its partners – regional nonprofits and municipal governments for heritage-related projects.
• Throughout its 25-year history and especially over the past seven years, Rivers of Steel has invested in its built environment, creating or renovating historic sites, National Historic Landmarks, and various facilities under its control. On average, Rivers of Steel spends approximately $176,000 on construction each year, contributing to capital expenses.
• The annual average of direct, indirect, and induced economic impact estimates a $92 million return on the annual investment of $664,000 by the National Park Service through the National Heritage Area program and an average investment of $200,000 by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources through the Heritage Parks Program. The result is more than a 100-fold return on investment in terms of ultimate economic benefit for the eight-county region.
• In addition, all these activities and the resulting ripple effect in the economy generate significant estimated tax revenue for municipal, county, and state governments totaling more than $5.6 million and for the federal government of more than $7.4 million.

August Carlino, President and CEO of Rivers of Steel, said, “The unstated conclusion of this report proves that heritage tourism, and the National Heritage Area program of the National Park Service, along with the State Heritage Area program of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, are true economic drivers and worthy of the investments of the public and private sectors.”

“We have to remember,” Carlino continued, “that old, historic buildings can become economic booms to communities if there is a commitment to invest.  Once they are gone, the unique character of a place changes forever.  We not only lose the building, but we also contribute to the loss of our identity.  Heritage Areas not only support jobs and generate revenue, but they also invest in these other intangibles that are so critical to the quality of life of the places we call our home.”

Today, Rivers of Steel operates a portfolio of historically-significant sites in the Monongahela River Valley, including the renowned Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Rankin and Swissvale, along with the Bost Building National Historic Landmark—a museum and visitors center in Homestead, and the historic Pump House and Water Tower in Munhall, in addition to the W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop—another National Historic Landmark located in Rices Landing, Greene County.

Support for Rivers of Steel from Elected Officials

Recognizing the value of the annual investment from the National Park Service, several elected federal officials voiced their bi-partisan support for Rivers of Steel in response to this newly released assessment.

From U.S. Senator Bob Casey:

“The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area has proven to be a cost-effective model for leveraging federal funds and private-public partnerships to stimulate local economies, increase tourism and promote education and conservation in Southwestern Pennsylvania,” said Senator Casey. “That is why it is critical for Congress to pass my legislation, the Pennsylvania National Heritage Areas Act (S.4009), which would extend Rivers of Steel’s authorization for 15 years, ensuring the preservation of Pennsylvania’s cultural sites for many years to come.”

From U.S. Congressman Mike Doyle:

“This report shows that the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area is making an important contribution to our region’s economy in addition to the contribution it makes to our culture by preserving Pittsburgh’s remarkable history,” Congressman Doyle said. “It demonstrates the economic benefits that investments in historic preservation can produce.”

From U.S. Congressman Guy Reschenthaler:

“The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area celebrates southwestern Pennsylvania’s historic steel legacy while generating tens of millions of dollars in economic benefits and hundreds of jobs for our region,” said Reschenthaler. “Importantly, the National Heritage Area (NHA) program is incredibly cost-effective, with every federal dollar matched with an average $5.50 in other public and private funding. I support Rivers of Steel and the NHA program, which will boost tourism and help facilitate a strong economic recovery for communities in southwestern Pennsylvania.”

Additionally, Rivers of Steel’s funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is supported on the state level as well, as demonstrated here by Pennsylvania State Senator Jay Costa.

“Rivers of Steel’s portfolio of historic sites is one of the many treasures that make our region a destination for tourism and a desirable place to live year round,” said Senator Costa. “ I’m not surprised to see such a large economic impact associated with their activity and would encourage anyone who has not yet visited their historic sites to take advantage of the outstanding adventure they offer.”

Rivers of Steel also operates one 21st-century attraction—the Explorer riverboat, docked on Ohio River along Pittsburgh’s North Shore. Explorer, the world’s first LEED-constructed commercial passenger marine vessel. Explorer is a STEM education boat – the culmination of Rivers of Steel’s long-standing goal of connecting the region’s waterways to history – that offers unparalleled opportunities to experience the beauty of Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania from its rivers that once served as critical arteries for the steel industry.

Through its historical and 21st-century attractions, Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania’s industrial and cultural heritage―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

This assessment, conducted by The Hill Group, is a follow-up to an initial economic impact study examining the period of 1996-2012 that was conducted by the National Park Service and released in 2013. The new economic impact assessment serves as an assessment of annual average impact incorporating the evolution of experiences, attractions, programs, and partnerships developed since the last report and through 2019.

Rivers of Steel took a conservative approach to this study, careful not to present figures that may be difficult to defend or justify. It is an estimate of the economic impacts of history and heritage activities that are within the span of control or influence of Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation.  The economic impact results presented in this report are annual averages, not cumulative impacts for Rivers of Steel’s activity.

The full report is available here.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

About the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area

This eight-county region is one of 55 National Heritage Areas designated by the U.S. Congress and one of 12 State Heritage Areas. A National Heritage Area is a place of national significance to America. For Rivers of Steel, Congress recognized the industrial and cultural heritage of southwestern Pennsylvania. Through a public-private partnership with the National Park Service and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Rivers of Steel supports heritage conservation, heritage tourism, and outdoor recreation as a means to foster economic redevelopment and enhance cultural engagement.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.
Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120
riversofsteel.com

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Rivers of Steel Presents Double Feature Movie Screenings at the Carrie Blast Furnaces

Homestead, PA (July 7, 2020)—Rivers of Steel is excited to announce new programming at the Carrie Blast Furnaces—the Carrie Carpool Cinema. This drive-in movie-style experience offers a double feature of curated films, along with mini-tours of the National Historic Landmark site and concessions for purchase.

The series begins on July 24 and 25 with four films shot in and around Pittsburgh. The premiere event on July 24 features the classic Pittsburgh film, Flashdance, followed up Out of the Furnace, which includes scenes shot at the Carrie Blast Furnaces. The following evening, July 25, movie-goers can take in Perks of Being a Wallflower, followed by Kingpin.

The rest of the series will offer double features that are also thematically linked. August 28 and 29 will feature family-friendly films from the 1980s, while September 19 and 20 will highlight movies that have music as a central theme. Classic horror films will be on the bill for October 16 and 17, and cult classics will close out the 2020 season on November 6 and 7. Specific titles will be announced approximately one month before each showing.

Pricing is $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 4 through 17. For July 24 and 25, the site will open at 7:30 p.m. with the first film to follow at 9:00 p.m. Mini-tours of the site are available for purchase at $10 / person. The 45-minute tours will begin at 8:00 p.m. Times will be adjusted for sunset throughout the season.  Concessions by Iron Oven Catering, in partnership with Rogue BBQ, will also be available for purchase.

Outside of the vehicles, social distancing protocols will be in place for the safety of guests and staff, including mandatory masks, available hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer, and marked directional flow with six-feet spacing, among other cautionary considerations.

Tickets are available at https://riversofsteel.com/experiences/carrie-carpool-cinema.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

About the Carrie Blast Furnaces

Once part of legendary U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works, the Carrie Blast Furnaces are a vestige of Pittsburgh’s 20th-century domination of the steel industry. In 2006, Blast Furnaces #6 & #7 were declared a National Historic Landmark. Today, visitors to the site can connect with the region’s industrial and cultural past through a myriad of public tours and programs offered by Rivers of Steel.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.
Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120
riversofsteel.com

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Rivers of Steel Reopens the Carrie Blast Furnaces for Modified Tours and Workshops

Homestead, PA (June 12, 2020)—Rivers of Steel is excited to announce the opening of its 2020 season at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, located in Rankin and Swissvale. Beginning Friday, June 19, modified Industrial Tours of this National Historic Landmark will resume, followed by a variety of arts workshops, starting on June 28.

In preparation for these events, Rivers of Steel has been working with a local consortium of museums and cultural entities to determine best practices to safely open our institutions. The safety of our employees and visitors is of paramount importance, so it has been decided that at this time only to resume programming that occurs primarily outdoors, with additional restrictions.

Tours and workshops will be limited to 50% of the usual capacity, and social-distancing guidelines will be in place. Additional details regarding Rivers of Steel’s COVID-19 policy can be found at https://riversofsteel.com/covid-19-policy/.

Industrial Tours of the Carrie Blast Furnaces will initially be offered to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with the potential for additional tour times as the season continues through the end of October. Private tours are also available. Tours highlight the site’s iron-making technology, its workers, and their culture. Additional information and tickets for purchase are available now at https://riversofsteel.com/experiences/tours/industrial-tour/.

Arts workshop offerings include a range of metal casting workshops, for the novice to the professional, along with photography and graffiti / style-writing experiences.  For the creative and the curious, Rivers of Steel’s workshops are designed to foster new perspectives while providing opportunities to build skills, network with peers, and connect with southwestern Pennsylvania’s cultural and industrial heritage. For more information, visit https://riversofsteel.com/experiences/workshops/.

Rivers of Steel is taking a tiered approach to opening its other four attractions. At the historic Pump House, located at the Waterfront in Munhall, the parking lot is now open to provide trailhead access and the venue is again available for rental events, with some limitations in place to fit within Green Phase mandates. The Bost Building in Homestead, the Explorer riverboat in Pittsburgh, and the W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop in Rices Landing, Greene County are currently closed. However, Rivers of Steel is continually evaluating options for their safe reopening.

Details on this phased reopening are available at https://riversofsteel.com/reopening/.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions―offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more. Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

About the Carrie Blast Furnaces

Once part of legendary U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works, the Carrie Blast Furnaces are a vestige of Pittsburgh’s 20th-century domination of the steel industry. In 2006, Blast Furnaces #6 & #7 were declared a National Historic Landmark. Today, visitors to the site can connect with the region’s industrial and cultural past through a myriad of public tours and programs offered by Rivers of Steel.

Contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 243 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.
Rivers of Steel | The Bost Building, 623 East Eighth Avenue, Homestead PA 15120
www.riversofsteel.com

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