The 2024 Scenic Symposium, held in Pittsburgh from November 18-20, brought together more than 100 advocates, policymakers, and experts to celebrate and advance the movement for scenic preservation and infrastructure modernization. Hosted in partnership between Scenic America and Scenic Pittsburgh, this event’s theme, Scenic Beauty Through Action and Advocacy, emphasized the importance of combining grassroots efforts with strategic partnerships to enhance America’s natural and built environments.

The vibrant city of Pittsburgh provided a fitting backdrop for Scenic Symposium 2024. Known as the “City of Bridges,” Pittsburgh is celebrated for its rich history of industry, innovation, and scenic beauty. The event was hosted at the historic Drury Plaza Hotel Downtown Pittsburgh, a beautifully restored Art Deco landmark that blends modern amenities with architectural charm. Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel’s proximity to attractions like Point State Park and Market Square created an ideal setting for exploring the city’s blend of urban sophistication and scenic character.

The event kicked off on Monday with a scenic bus tour that showcased Pittsburgh’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty. Narrated by the legendary George DeBolt, the tour offered participants an unforgettable introduction to the city. Highlights included the historic Allegheny River Boulevard and the scenic communities of Penn Hills and Verona, where restoration efforts are preserving the route’s charm. Attendees marveled at sweeping views from the Duquesne Incline atop Mt. Washington, explored the vibrant Strip District with its cultural and culinary delights, and admired Pittsburgh’s famed bridges, celebrated for their architectural elegance and historical significance.

Tuesday’s full day of sessions and panels began with a keynote address by former Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Murphy, whose visionary leadership transformed Pittsburgh into a model of urban revitalization. Murphy reflected on the critical role of public-private partnerships in enhancing civic spaces, improving infrastructure, and fostering sustainable growth. His insights inspired attendees to leverage similar strategies in their communities, underscoring how intentional investments in urban design and public spaces can create lasting beauty and vitality.

The Symposium featured a robust lineup of keynote addresses and panels that delved into pressing issues at the intersection of scenic preservation, infrastructure, and community design. One of the standout sessions, Undergrounding Utilities, was led by industry experts including Troy Helming of EarthGrid. This panel dispelled myths about the cost and feasibility of undergrounding overhead utility lines, highlighting advancements that have made undergrounding more cost-effective while improving reliability, reducing maintenance needs, and preserving scenic landscapes. The discussion underscored how undergrounding aligns with Scenic America’s mission to modernize infrastructure while protecting visual beauty.

The Responsible Lighting and Dark Skies panel, moderated by astronomer Diane Turnshek of Carnegie Mellon University , featured notable contributors such as former Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto and astronomer and scientist Stephen Quick, also of CMU. Together, they showcased Pittsburgh’s leadership in adopting Dark Sky principles, including responsible lighting design and ordinances aimed at reducing light pollution. The panel emphasized the environmental, aesthetic, and community benefits of reducing artificial light, and providing strategies for attendees to implement in their own communities.

Another important session focused on Zoning for Scenic Beauty. Dave Demko from Scenic Pittsburgh discussed strategies for controlling billboard proliferation and promoting zoning practices that prioritize scenic integrity. The panel explored regulations designed to minimize visual clutter and protect the natural and urban landscapes that define communities.

The Symposium also celebrated the preservation of America’s scenic byways, with Rick Duncan of the Allegheny River Boulevard Preservation Association (ARBPA) and Eric Hermanson of Scenic Missouri sharing insights into their efforts. Duncan highlighted the challenges of preserving the historic Allegheny River Boulevard, including the maintenance of 90-year-old London Plane trees and the restoration of scenic turnouts, which demonstrate the critical role byways play in connecting communities and safeguarding natural and cultural heritage. Hermanson expanded the discussion by presenting updates on the Ozark Run Scenic Byway, a multi-state initiative that highlights the breathtaking landscapes of Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. His presentation showcased the byway’s significance in promoting regional tourism and preserving the unique character of the Ozark region, emphasizing the collective impact of these projects in protecting America’s scenic beauty.

Tuesday concluded with a powerful session on legislative efforts to curb billboard proliferation and protect scenic views. Scenic America President Mark Falzone engaged in a lively discussion with Mike Dawida of Scenic Pittsburgh, providing updates on national and state-level initiatives, as well as a major announcement about upcoming legislative efforts in Allegheny County.

Wednesday’s Scenic Community Expo provided guests with an interactive networking opportunity to explore local and national initiatives and organizations that promote scenic preservation and community enhancement. Exhibitors included representatives from local conservation organizations, authors, scientists, technology innovators, and legislators.

Scenic America extends heartfelt gratitude to BMW North America for their generous platinum sponsorship of Scenic Symposium 2024. BMW’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and scenic preservation was evident through their support of this year’s event and their innovative Trees for Test Drives campaign, which helps reforest America. Their partnership not only made the Symposium possible but also highlighted the vital role of corporate leadership in advancing the mission to protect and enhance scenic beauty nationwide. Scenic America is proud to collaborate with BMW North America and looks forward to continued success in future initiatives.

Scenic Symposium 2024 showcased Scenic America’s leadership in advocating for beauty and sustainability and provided guests an opportunity to learn, network, and become motivated to affect change in their ow communities. Attendees left inspired and equipped with strategies to continue advancing scenic preservation in their communities. Scenic America looks forward to building on this momentum at next year’s Symposium, furthering its mission to ensure that America’s beauty remains a cherished resource for all.