by A Pennsylvania state lawmaker stood in an unpaved hole for over five hours to protest an incomplete roadwork project on Verona Boulevard. The bold move by Rep.
Joe McAndrew forced city officials to address what he described as a broken paving agreement between his office and Pittsburgh leadership.
What Happened
On Thursday, State Rep. Joe McAndrew physically blocked construction work by standing in a pothole to protest a road repaving error.
The protest took place on Verona Boulevard, where he says a paving crew failed to finish the job as agreed.
The incident halted work and drew attention from Pittsburgh police and city officials.
Key Details
Rep. McAndrew stated that the City of Pittsburgh had agreed to repave Verona Blvd from Lincoln Avenue to the Penn Hills border.
However, the construction crew stopped short, leaving a portion of the road untouched.
Wearing a shirt and tie, McAndrew stood in the unpaved section for over five hours.
His goal: to force the city to honor its commitment and notify officials of the discrepancy.
The protest resulted in city acknowledgment and a promise to finish paving the full stretch.
Reactions or Statements
McAndrew said,
“The city of Pittsburgh officials continued to ignore my pleas… I had to get in the way of construction vehicles just to be heard.”
Olga George, press secretary for Mayor Ed Gainey, issued a statement attributing the issue to “miscommunication.”
She confirmed the need for additional City Council approval to repave a brick portion of the road.
Investigation or What’s Next
Work has temporarily stopped to secure Council approval for paving over the brick section of the street.
The city now plans to complete the road in one coordinated phase rather than split into parts.
Once approved, the full length from Mt. Carmel Road to Lincoln Avenue will be repaved as originally intended.
FAQs
Why did Rep. McAndrew stand in a pothole?
To protest an incomplete road paving project and force city officials to respond.
Which road was involved in the dispute?
Verona Boulevard in Pittsburgh, from Lincoln Avenue to the Penn Hills border.
What caused the delay in the paving project?
A miscommunication between city officials and contractors about the project’s boundaries.
Will the road now be fully paved?
Yes, after City Council approves the repaving of a brick-paved portion.
Did city officials acknowledge the mistake?
Yes, both McAndrew and the mayor’s office confirmed an error in the initial work plan.
Summary / Final Takeaway
State Rep. Joe McAndrew’s unconventional protest brought attention to a halted paving job on Verona Blvd.
His actions led to renewed commitments from city officials to finish the project properly.
Once Council approval is obtained, the entire stretch of road—long overdue for repairs—will finally receive new blacktop, improving access for residents in Lincoln Park and Penn Hills.
