Cleanup Underway After Record Numbers Pack Point State Park

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Tens of thousands of people came to Point State Park waiting until dark for the skies to light up in one of the greatest fireworks shows ever over the skies of downtown Pittsburgh.

By morning, the spectators were gone, but they left tons of garbage behind from Gateway Center all the way down to Point State Park.

"I hate to see – there's a lot of garbage," said volunteer Karen El-Kamel.

El-Kamel was one of many volunteers who came with garbage bags to clean up the mess.

"There's a lot of garbage," said volunteer Kelly Braun. "I think we can put a big dent in it."

"It's a beautiful day," said volunteer Crista Pearson. "We love Pittsburgh and we want to see it clean and beautiful."

The EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta ended last night with the fireworks show. The volunteers are part of a massive effort involving the city and Point State Park to bring things back to normal after record numbers of people crammed into the park.

"We are estimated approximately three-quarters of a million people over three days, with probably our biggest one-day attendance, July 4th, over 400,000 people," said Regatta Events Manager Mike Dongilli.

"I've been here since January of 2011," said Point State Park Manager Matt Green. "It was the most we've had in here for the fireworks by far."

Pittsburgh Police only made three arrests, including two for intoxication. Checkpoints were setup to prevent people from bringing alcohol and fireworks into the park.

"We wanted to keep this a family friendly and family-oriented event and it really worked out well," Green said.

RELATED LINKS
Boaters Test Their Building Skills With "Anything That Floats" Competition
Thousands Celebrate The 4th Of July Downtown

Join The Conversation, Like KDKA On Facebook
Follow KDKA On Twitter