Port Authority's 50th Anniversary Celebration Rewards Riders
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - The Port Authority of Allegheny County is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Today, riders received gifts from the Port Authority.
During the morning rush hour, Pennsylvania Trolley Museum conductors directed riders to fresh bagels, pastries and other sweets at the Steel Plaza T Station.
It was all part of the Port Authority's 50th anniversary celebration.
"I think it's a great thing. I'm glad that I live in a city where they seem to have one of the best public transportation systems in the United States. So, I'm glad and they are giving out free treats, you can't beat that," Jackson Brown said.
Some riders enjoyed seeing the conductors just as much as breakfast.
"I think they look so cool. I like seeing the old vintage outfits," Denise Hartley said.
"I see the fellas with their uniforms on, it brings memories of taking the street car back in the 50s and 60s. The Port Authority has come a long way," Judy Perry said.
The conductors were also talking to passengers about Connect Cards, which is the Port Authority's new smart card fare collection system.
They handed out cards with $5 already loaded.
"Everybody seems to have seen people tap their cards and so this gives people a chance to have a card, have their own card and try it out," conductor Bruce Wells said.
People were praising the Port Authority today, which doesn't happen often.
Recently, the Port Authority has received a lot negative attention for its major budget shortfalls.
"I've only lived in Pittsburgh about a year-and-a-half and I [have] a job downtown and I didn't have a car at the time, so it was absolutely invaluable in me staying employed," Derek McDowell said.
More giveaways will be handed out Friday and Tuesday.
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