Bucco Bricks temporarily removed, will return in near future

PITTSBURGH -- The personalized bricks that paved the sidewalks just outside PNC Park will be returning in a more permanent display in the near future.

This news comes after a report from local TV station KDKA that found the bricks in a recycling plant in nearby Reserve Township. Renovations were done to the entrance outside PNC Park’s home gate this offseason, and the bricks were temporarily removed. This is the third time the bricks have been removed due to wear and tear.

The “Bucco Brick” program was launched in 1999, allowing fans to purchase personalized bricks that would be placed on the main terrace of PNC Park, with proceeds going to the Roberto Clemente Foundation. An estimated 10,000 bricks were bought, and while there is no contact information for those involved, there is an Excel list of the names and inscriptions.

Senior vice president of communications and broadcasting Brian Warecki offered the following released statement:

“When we laid these bricks outside of PNC Park nearly 25 years ago, we invited our fans to join us in building our future on the North Shore together.

“Through the years, a host of environmental factors including weather and foot traffic have led to significant damage leading to multiple, full-scale replacements. This cycle of deterioration prompted our organization to look for a better way to preserve these cherished messages over the long term.

“We respect, appreciate and understand just how meaningful these messages are. We share in that feeling. We have been actively planning to develop and unveil a more permanent display for these special messages to honor the enduring support that our fans shared then and continue to share in our future.

“We look forward to sharing those details soon in celebration of our 25th season.”