From The Ironworker, September 1960; gift of William "Red" Collins.
One of the most interesting engineering projects in the land is underway in Pittsburgh with the construction of an unusual civic arena which becomes either a spectacular open-air stadium or a weather-proof auditorium at the touch of a button that will open or close the retractable roof in about two minutes.
The American Bridge Division of United States Steel Corporation is the contractor and members of Local Union No. 3 are erecting the steel for the Public Auditorium which is a key structure in Pittsburgh's renaissance. The Auditorium, including a handsome mall and adequate parking area will occupy about 20 acres. This is part of a plan to transform 95 acres of blighted area at the upper end of the famous Golden Triangle into a modern showplace of civic redevelopment.
The auditorium will accommodate from 7,500 to 13,600 people depending on the event which can range from conventions, operas and musical shows to hockey, boxing or rodeos. All this in open air comfort or protected, air-conditioned comfort, if necessary.
The unique feature of the Public Auditorium is, of course, its vast stainless steel-sheathed retractable roof--the largest in the world. Naturally, it is made of the Steel City's own famous product. It is nearly circular in design, 415 feet in diameter and 136 feet high at the center, as tall as a twelve-story building. The dome is divided radially into eight 45-degree sections, six of which are movable and two stationary. When the roof is retracted, the six movable sections (three on each side) will glide over the other on top of the two fixed sections to open the huge arena to the skies.
This modern cultural and sports temple will resemble a giant silver bubble with the roof closed. The mall will contain shade trees, flower gardens, parking areas, apartment buildings, galleries, theatres and stores. Completion is scheduled for next year.
Pittsburgh's magic dome with its mammoth movable roof is a real step in Pittsburgh's plan for a new look. Local 3 members are happy and proud to have a hand in rebuilding their favorite city.
The $20 million estimated construction cost is financed by a combination of private and public funds, moneys from revenue bonds and a general fund-raising campaign.
Last updated: 27 April 1999.