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The long awaited North Shore Connector project undertaken by the Port Authority of Allegheny County will finally reach a close next month with good news for riders.

Yesterday, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Rivers Casino also agreed to take part in the sponsorship, providing free fare to and from the Allegheny Station, which sits between Heinz Field and the casino, for the next three years. 

Combined with the free fare Alcoa and the Stadium authority sponsored to the North Side Station near PNC park, rides from both stations will now be free.

 “The Steelers are happy to participate in the partnership that will bring the free LRV (light-rail vehicle) ride to the Allegheny Station on the North Shore,” said Steeler’s president Art Rooney II. “The LRV service to the North Shore will assist all the North Shore/Northside communities to continue to build on the momentum and progress that is reshaping the North Shore of Pittsburgh.”

“The North Shore is truly an entertainment destination for resident s and visitors,” said Craig Clark, general manager of Rivers Casino. “Rivers is proud to help make transportation easy and accessible.”

The North Shore Connector is scheduled to open Sunday March 25 and will provide transportation between Downtown and the two North Shore stations.

Port Authority spokesperson Heather Pharo explained the agreement, stating that Stadium Authority and Alco Parking, the two sponsors of the North Side station, “provide the funding to [Port Authority] so we can provide free fare [to patrons].”

Steve Bland, CEO of Port Authority, also recognized the growing community of North Shore, saying, “This agreement brings a tremendous level of transit service to the ever-growing North Shore, providing new opportunities to commuters, students, and those heading for a little fun at the game or casino.” 

While the new transit service will not be available to the public until Sunday, March 25, a small opening event is being held by the Port Authority. The opening event will be held that Friday, March 23, and include speeches from select elected officials, as well as an official first ride.