By Sean P. Ray | Managing Editor
CHATEAU — A rundown and rusting warehouse filled with graffiti might not be the most scenic location to break ground on a multi-million development, but that’s exactly what took place on Dec. 1 as Piatt Companies kicked off construction of their long-awaited Esplanade project.
Initially announced in 2017, Esplanade is a redevelopment of 15 acres of former industrial land along the Ohio River estimated to cost $740 million. The project will include retail space, a splash park/ice skating area, up to 300-unit apartment buildings, a marina, a hotel, and notably a Ferris wheel. The ribbon cutting took place in a warehouse which will be torn down as part of the project.
The groundbreaking was the beginning of phase 1 of the project’s construction, which is anticipated to span until 2028. Much of the amenities will be completed during this first phase and the area will be opened in 2028 under Piatt’s plans.
The second and final phase of construction is set to begin in 2027 and run through 2029. It will involve the construction of a hotel, entertainment space, apartments and an “office, life sciences, medical or research facility,” according to Piatt’s website.
The ground breaking was attended by various Pittsburgh and Pennsylvanian officials, including Gov. Josh Shapiro, both outgoing and incoming mayors Ed Gainey and Corey O’Connor, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, Pittsburgh City Councilman Daniel Lavelle, Pennsylvania state House Rep. Aerion Abney and Manchester Citizens Corporation Executive Director LaShawn Burton-Faulk.
Check out the January issue for the complete story.
