The Waterways Association of Pittsburgh (WAP) has been a dedicated advocate for the important role that the region’s waterways play in the economic development and overall quality of life for over 75 years.
The association was founded in 1967 as a non-profit organization focused on promoting the waterways of western Pennsylvania. At the time, the country was in the midst of World War II, and the ability to transport goods and materials via waterways was becoming increasingly important. The organization sought to promote these waterways as a vital transportation option and to encourage their continued development.
The early focus of the organization was on the Monongahela River, which was a key transportation route for coal from the Appalachian Mountains. However, the organization quickly expanded to include advocacy for all of the region’s waterways, including the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers.
Over the years, the WAP has played a critical role in the development of the region’s waterways. It has been instrumental in the construction and maintenance of locks and dams, which help to regulate the flow of water and keep the rivers navigable. The association has also been a vocal advocate for dredging projects, which help to remove sediment from the riverbeds and ensure safe passage for boats and barges.
In addition to its work on infrastructure projects, the WAP has also been a leading voice on environmental issues related to the region’s waterways. It has worked to address pollution and to promote sustainable practices that protect the health of the rivers and the communities that depend on them.
As part of its advocacy efforts, the WAP has worked closely with government officials at the local, state, and federal levels. It has also formed partnerships with other organizations focused on promoting the region’s waterways, including the Pittsburgh Port Authority and the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area.
Today, the WAP remains an important voice on behalf of the region’s waterways. Its advocacy efforts continue to be critical to the ongoing development and protection of these valuable resources. As the waterways association looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of promoting the region’s waterways as a vital transportation network and a source of economic and environmental sustainability.