Port Authority 4000 Series PCC
The Port Authority 4000 Series PCC is a streetcar from the mid-20th century now displayed in front of the Schoolhouse Arts and History Center in Bethel Park. This roughly 46-foot-long vehicle with art deco styling shows the engineering and design typical of Pittsburgh's transit system.
Built in 1947 and extensively rebuilt in 1981 to extend its service life, this car operated on various Pittsburgh routes until its retirement in 1999. The rebuild gave it new engines, controls, and improved systems while maintaining its original art deco structure.
The name PCC stands for Presidents Conference Committee, a group that designed a standard streetcar style in the 1920s to work across different cities. The car shows how this standardized design shaped public travel and connected neighborhoods in Pittsburgh's daily life.
The car is easy to find since it sits directly in front of the Schoolhouse Arts and History Center and is visible from the street. Visitors can view it up close and learn more about streetcar history during special storytelling events and educational programs organized by the local library and historical society.
This car can seat about 46 passengers but can hold over 100 people when standing passengers are included. It was one of twelve vehicles selected for complete overhaul in 1981, making it a rare example of the specially upgraded cars that locals call the Super 17s.
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