In the pantheon of Pittsburgh bridges, it will not be the longest, the highest or the most heavily traveled. But the span that, by the end of next year, will carry pedestrians and bicyclists across the Monongahela River will have its own claim to fame.

The abandoned Hot Metal Bridge between the South Side and Second Avenue was used in steel's heyday to carry molten iron. After its $6 million to $6.5 million rehabilitation, it will become a key link in Pittsburgh's ever-expanding river trail system.

For one thing, it will connect the popular Eliza Furnace Trail along Second Avenue with the bustling SouthSide Works development. For another, it will have ramps at both ends that are foot- and pedal-friendly.

The conversion of the Hot Metal Bridge, which runs parallel to a revived span that carries vehicular traffic, will be a victory for Mayor Tom Murphy, the Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Riverlife Task Force. Best part of the deal: The entire project is federally funded.