Officials gathered on the site of Carrie Furnaces 6 and 7 this morning to discuss plans to develop the vacant pair of furnaces into a National Historic Site and surrounding property into a light industrial/residential area.

Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area in June acquired the rights to the pair of furnaces, which operated from 1907 to 1978, as well as acreage surrounding the former steel complex. The site was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006.

Allegheny County plans to develop the 150-plus acres, which it terms the last brownfield in the county. Local officials hope that its redevelopment will help the surrounding communities of Munhall, Rankin, Braddock and Swissvale.

Rivers of Steel President and CEO August Carlino discussed plans for the Carrie Furnace complex and outlined the steps his group will take to develop the historic site.

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