The Civic Arena (Mellon) just wont die

Last week the Sports and Exhibition Authority voted to demolish the Civic Arena. Most thought this was the beginning of the end for the 30 year old igloo. But rest assured, it's not going down that easy.


Lead by a group called Reuse The Igloo, the ideas are streaming in. I've heard everything from a swimming pool, grocery store, outdoor event venue, a church, and a business center. Reuse The Igloo is claiming the SEA violated a policy of historic preservation by voting to demolish without going through proper channels. They intend to legally challenge the decision. They are going as far as to hold a concert to raise money for their legal fight.

You know, this is all good. I'm glad to see people fighting for what they believe in. However, sometimes you just got to let go. I grew up with the Civic arena. I've attended countless numbers of Penguins games, concerts, wwf events, and circuses in the igloo. I love the place. It was our place. It is a very unique building and I will always remember the place. On the flip side, there is no doubt it is obsolete. Reportedly, the infrastructure of the building is all but deteriorated. The building has run its coarse.

I'm all for incorporating a part of the building into whatever may take its place. Possibly keeping the arch in place would be a good compliment. But keeping the entire structure there in some capacity would be a burden to the city and taxpayers. Pittsburgh is evolving. With the brand new state of the art Consol next door, the Civic arena land is prime reality. To maximize the space, it needs prime redeveloping, not recycling old, worn out parts.