The Beechview Beautification Project is a walking path connecting Methyl Street and Crane Avenue. The path is used by neighborhood residents as a short cut to public transit stops along Crane Avenue and Banksville Road. Over the years this path had fallen into disrepair and became somewhat hazardous to use. Downed and hazardous trees combined with soil erosion created a situation that was uninviting to foot travelers. The area also became a dumping site for discarded tires and other debris.

Concerned residents from the Community Leaders United for Beechview (CLUB) decided to reclaim the path making it both safe and attractive. Heavy debris removal, grading to reduce erosion and site preparation were provided by the City of Pittsburgh Redd Up crew.

On April 23, 2007, volunteers from CLUB, provided with training and assistance from Penn State Extension staff on proper planting and maintenance techniques, installed the plant material and mulched the site. Plant materials consist of dogwood and serviceberry trees, roses and a lot of mulch! Community residents also purchased and planted ferns for the pathway. This beautification effort serves as a visible model of how community residents can reclaim, vitalize and enhance the appearance of their neighborhood.

The Beechview Beautification Project is the result of the efforts of the following individuals and organizations:

• Mayor Luke Ravenstahl – Green Up Pittsburgh Program
• City of Pittsburgh – Office of Neighborhood Initiatives
• City of Pittsburgh – Redd Up Campaign
• Community Leaders United for Beechview (CLUB)
• Penn State Extension – Allegheny County