Fifty years ago, on July 16, 1970, Three Rivers Stadium opened in Pittsburgh, Pa. It was named in February 1969 for its location at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, which form the Ohio River. According to Historic Pittsburgh, the site on Pittsburgh’s north side was chosen in 1958; however, 10 years of labor and political disputes delayed the start of construction until 1968.
The multi-purpose facility was home to the Steelers and Pirates for three decades until it closed in 2000. It was imploded on Feb. 11, 2001, and replaced by Heinz Field and the Pirates’ PNC Park. Heinz Field, where the Steelers currently play, was constructed a mere 65 feet away from where Three Rivers was demolished. Where the stadium once stood now serves as a parking lot for Heinz and PNC Park.
Built to replace Forbes Field, Three Rivers Stadium cost $55 million to construct. Even at today’s equivalent of $383.5 million, it’s a bargain compared to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers’ SoFi Stadium. Coming in at a cool $5 billion, it ranks as the priciest venue to date.
The Steelers first game at Three Rivers was lost to the Houston Oilers, 19-7 on Sept. 20, 1970. They beat the Washington Redskins 24-3 in the final game on Saturday, Dec. 16.
