Local businesses continue benefiting from Pirates' postseason run

PITTSBURGH — Businesses throughout the Pittsburgh area have more incentive than most to root for a Pirates victory Wednesday night – a longer playoff run means more increased business.

Business owners on the North Shore said the big screen, and playoff baseball in general, means an increase in profits.

“This brings in people who normally wouldn’t come down on a Wednesday or Thursday night. This does increase business by a lot,” Jack “Johnny Angel” Hunt said.

Hunt, of Atria’s at PNC Park, said he’s glad to see the large crowds flocking to Federal Street.

“The city is on fire. It has rejuvenated not only the restaurant business, but also the memorabilia, merchandise and marketing. It’s just on fire,” Hunt said.

Business on the South Side said they’re also noticing benefits from the Buccos’ playoff run.

“It’s a pickup in business. The times are a bit inconsistent, whether it’s 1 o’clock, 3 or 5, but it’s definitely been helping out,” Callen Pisone, of Carson City Saloon, said.

Zone 3 police officers, who cover the South Side, said they’re planning normal patrols for Wednesday night. They said they’re not adding additional officers for the possibility of celebrations if the Pirates clinch a trip to the NLCS.

Pirates fans on the North Shore said they’re hoping things stay calm Wednesday night, even if the Pirates win.

“I would like to think that our city is smart enough to not do anything dumb, but you never know. It could be a really exciting moment. It’s been like 20 years, so you just never know how people are going to react,” fan Brandy Kulla said.

The first pitch Wednesday night is scheduled for 8:07 p.m.

WPXI