Free light-rail rides during NFL Draft
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Pittsburgh and Sheetz officials at the Steel Plaza T station with Sheetz mascot Sh-weetie. Photo: Ryan Deto/Axios
Pittsburgh's light-rail trains will be free during the NFL Draft.
Why it matters: Local officials want people to avoid driving to the draft, and now convenience store giant Sheetz is paying for free rides on the region's two light-rail lines and the Monongahela Incline between April 23-25.
What they're saying: Pittsburgh Regional Transit CEO Katharine Kelleman said Friday at a press conference in the Steel Plaza T station that the agency wants to help fans get to the draft and workers get to their jobs Downtown.
- "We know that's where our Sheetz Freakz, our customers, are going to be," said Sheetz spokesperson Caroline Constantine.
Context: Light-rail rides are always free between the North Side and Downtown, but fare is $2.75 across the Monongahela River and into the South Hills.
- Fare for the Mon Incline is also $2.75.
Follow the money: PRT projects the costs for free light-rail and incline rides will be between $175,000-$200,000.
The bottom line: Kelleman said PRT welcomes any other corporate sponsorships that might want to cover bus fares during the draft.
