Penguins eye entertainment venues for former Civic Arena site

December 1, 2014

The Pittsburgh Penguins are going for the development equivalent of a hat trick at the former Civic Arena site.
In U.S. Steel, they just landed the prestigious anchor tenant they need. A developer is on board to deliver 1,100 units of housing. Now the team is turning its attention to the third leg of its proposed $440 million development — retail and entertainment.
The Penguins, who hold the development rights to the 28-acre tract in the lower Hill District, are expected to issue a request for proposals early next year for a master developer to handle those aspects, including the retail built into the new U.S. Steel building and the residential components.
They are looking for retail and entertainment that will help draw people to the site and serve those who are living and working there.
“It can’t be only a destination. It has to be something sustainable,” Penguins CEO David Morehouse said.
Concepts that have been tossed around so far include a movie theater, a bowling alley, a fitness center, a live music venue, a comedy club, restaurants, cafes and perhaps even a food market. “It’s a blank slate and we’re looking for ideas,” Mr. Morehouse said.
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