The Great Pittsburgh Prison Count: Are there more inmates or Terrible Towel twirling fans?
Ah, Pittsburgh! City of steel, champions (don't worry Baltimore fans, we're talking about multiple sports here), and...prisons? Maybe you're planning a visit (hey, not everyone vacations in Cancun), or perhaps you're just curious about the criminal justice system in the Steel City. Either way, you've stumbled upon the hard-hitting question: how many prisons are there in Pittsburgh?
Spoiler alert: Buckle up, because the answer might surprise you (and it definitely involves fewer Terrible Towels).
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| How Many Prisons Are In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania |
The Case of the Missing Prisons: A Pittsburgh Caper
Let's dispel the myth right off the bat: there are no active state prisons within the city limits of Pittsburgh. Whaaa? We know, it's like discovering Primanti Bros. sandwiches don't actually come with a side of freedom. Fear not, history buffs! Pittsburgh used to have a notorious prison called the "Western Pen," which housed some fascinating characters (though we wouldn't recommend sharing a cell with them). Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your perspective), the Western Pen closed its doors in 2017.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
So, if you're looking for a prison tour in Pittsburgh, you're out of luck. But don't despair! There are still plenty of exciting things to see and do, like catching a Penguins game (they might even win!), attending a concert at Heinz Field, or getting lost in the wonderful Andy Warhol Museum.
But Wait! There's More! (Because There Kinda Has to Be)
Now, before you write off Pittsburgh as a prison-free paradise, here's a little reality check. Pittsburgh, like most major cities, does have a county jail: the Allegheny County Jail. This jail houses people awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences. So, there you have it – Pittsburgh isn't crawling with prisons, but it does have a facility to keep the peace.
QuickTip: Pause when something clicks.
Fun Fact: The daily population of the Allegheny County Jail is available online. That's right, folks, you can compare the number of inmates to the number of people attending a Pirates game! (Although, we wouldn't recommend using that stat to impress anyone).
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FAQ: Your Guide to Pittsburgh's (Limited) Prison Population
How to visit a prison in Pittsburgh? Unfortunately, with no active state prisons within city limits, visiting a prison in Pittsburgh isn't currently possible.
Tip: Write down what you learned.
How many people are incarcerated in Pittsburgh? That depends! We can't give you a definitive answer for the entire city, but you can find the daily population of the Allegheny County Jail https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Government/County-Jail.
How do I learn more about the history of prisons in Pittsburgh? The Western Pen may be closed, but its history lives on! Check out some local history resources or even visit the Senator John Heinz History Center for a deep dive into Pittsburgh's past.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Should I be worried about safety in Pittsburgh? Pittsburgh, like any major city, has its areas to avoid. However, violent crime rates are generally lower than the national average. Do your research and use common sense, and you'll be just fine.
Is there anything else to do in Pittsburgh besides contemplating the prison population? Absolutely! Pittsburgh is a vibrant city with tons to offer. From world-class museums to delicious food (seriously, the Primanti Bros. sandwiches are legendary!), you won't be bored for a second.
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