There are however indications the new stadiums will be better. While access to Three Rivers was limited to the automobile, a new rail line is being built to connect the new stadiums to downtown. New pedestrian walkways will also connect to the river walk. There will be stores, taverns and other amenities available nearby to attempt to keep sports goers hanging around and spending money in the city. It will be easier to get there without a car.
Fans living south of the city can travel the entire trip on light rail.
The problem with the new stadium is not with the design. The problem is the investment in the stadiums, financed by the taxpayers in the city of Pittsburgh, will primarily benefit regional and suburban residents. More, economists say the construction of sports facilities does not create economic growth as much as it redirects entertainment dollars that would have been spent elsewhere in the region anyway. While its better to redirect the entertainment dollars into the city, its not better to direct public money away from the people who need it most and away from initiatives that could spur real long-term economic growth. While Pittsburgh has many advantages and assets, its biggest problem right now won't be addresses by the construction of the stadiums.