Pitt people, here’s what you need to know about the NFL Draft

Next week, one of the biggest events in American sports is coming to Pittsburgh: The NFL Draft is April 23-25. Expect events, activities and out-of-town visitors throughout the week, along with major impacts to local traffic and infrastructure.

Whether you’re heading to the Draft Campus in downtown Pittsburgh or going about your day and getting ready for finals, it’s important to stay situationally aware and prepare in advance. We’ve gathered everything you need to know for getting around and staying safe during this major event.

Head to the Pitt Block Party

The University has partnered with the city to host the first major event at the new civic space in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District: Pitt Block Party x Arts Landing.

This event is open to Pitt fans, football lovers and the entire community throughout the duration of the NFL Draft, April 23-25. Programming will including an immersive Pitt football museum and the program’s NFL pipeline, live music and entertainment, food trucks and local vendors, an activity zone and more. More details are coming soon — visit Pitt Athletics’ website and social media to catch updates as they’re announced.

Help break a world record

On April 24, you could be part of a Guinness World Records title attempt while learning a lifesaving skill. The NFL and American Heart Association are partnering with Damar Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation and Doctor Mike to try to break the record for most people trained in hands-only CPR in one hour. Arrive at Acrisure Stadium at noon to participate as a trainee; the team is aiming to train 4,000 people.

Road closures and parking

If you’re planning on driving to the Draft or in the vicinity of the event, make sure you leave early, be patient and plan your route in advance. Some road closures on the North Shore and in downtown are already in place, but most detours around the city will go into effect on Wednesday, April 22. See the full map of closures.

Parking will be extremely limited in downtown Pittsburgh and around the North Shore. You can track availability in real-time with the ParkPGH app or book a spot ahead of time with ParkWhiz. Make sure you follow all posted signage — vehicles parked illegally may be ticketed or towed.

Public transit

The City of Pittsburgh recommends parking outside of the city and using public transportation options to get to downtown destinations. Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) will operate on an expanded service schedule during the Draft, including four “Football Flyer” bus routes that start at major suburban parking lots and travel directly to the Draft Campus. Find more details from PRT and start planning your routes.

Plus, all rides on the Light Rail (the “T”) and the Monongahela Incline are free April 23-25.

Biking

You can also beat the traffic and skip the parking stress when you travel by bicycle. BikePGH has your guide to staying safe on the roads and planning your travel, including if you need to drive or bus to the nearest bike route.

Pedestrian safety

• Be predictable; follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available, but if there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
• Always be alert: Don't be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
• Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible, as this is where drivers expect pedestrians. Be aware that drivers don’t always stop at crosswalks, however, and remain alert to those who might not see you due to blocked views or potential illegal turns.
• Never assume a driver sees you; make eye contact with drivers as they approach you to make sure you are seen.
• Be visible at all times: Wear bright clothing during the day and reflective materials at night.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and judgment, too.

Review additional pedestrian safety tips from the Pitt Police.

If you see something, say something

Suspicious activity is any observed behavior that could indicate criminal activity or terrorism-related crime. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Unusual items or situations: A vehicle is parked in an odd location, a package/luggage is unattended, a window or door is open that is usually closed and other out-of-the-ordinary situations.
• Eliciting information: A person questions individuals at a level beyond curiosity about a building’s purpose, operations, security procedures and/or personnel, shift changes, etc.;
• Observation/surveillance: Someone pays unusual attention to facilities or buildings beyond a casual or professional interest. This includes extended loitering without explanation, particularly in concealed locations; unusual, repeated or prolonged observation of a building (e.g., with binoculars or video camera); taking notes or measurements; counting paces; sketching floor plans; etc.

You can help our community stay safe by reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement such as the Pitt Police for on-campus activity at 412-624-2121 or the City of Pittsburgh police at 911.

On-campus emergencies

For emergencies on campus, remember you can subscribe to the Emergency Notification System (ENS) and the Rave Guardian app, and you can contact Pitt Police at 412-624-2121.

Continue to follow Pitt Police on X (@pittpolice), Instagram (@pitt_police), and Facebook for updates.

Get the latest updates

For minute-by-minute updates and access to all event information, register and download the NFL OnePass app. And keep an eye on Visit Pittsburgh for more in-depth guides to transit, parking and city activities.