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Frequently asked questions

 


Q: Where is Heinz Field?
A: From the Airport:
Take Route 60 South toward Pittsburgh that turns into I-279 through the Fort Pitt Tunnel. Keep to the left after exiting tunnel and merge left to cross Fort Duquesne Bridge. Exit to left (EXIT 7A) after crossing bridge turn left onto Allegheny Avenue and follow to North Shore Drive, which circles Heinz Field. (During construction please follow detour signs for 279N and then signs for North Shore.)

From 279 Parkway North:
Follow I-279 South to the North Shore Exit (Heinz Field/PNC Park). Follow Reedsdale to the second traffic light and make left onto Allegheny Avenue and follow North Shore Drive, which circles Heinz Field.

From Turnpike:
Take the Monroeville Exit- head toward Pittsburgh. You will be on I-376. Follow I-376 to North Shore ramp onto Fort Duquesne Boulevard. Keep to the left and merge left to cross Fort Duquesne Bridge. Exit to left (EXIT 7A) after crossing bridge and turn left onto Allegheny Avenue and follow North Shore Drive, which circles Heinz Field.

Driving directions and maps of the North Shore are available at http://news.steelers.com/heinzfield/.

Q: Where do I park for the walk?
A: Parking is FREE for participants until 9:00 a.m. in the following lots:

  • Gold Lot 1
  • Gold Lot 2

Lot Red 7A is available and should only be used by those participants who have completed the 5k Walk and need to leave early. To exit this lot, follow Martindale to Merchant Street.

Arrive early. Parking in these designated lots is available on a first come first serve basis. Additional parking is available in the Red 5 Garage at a cost of $3.00.

Street closures: Streets located along the walk route will close at approximately 8:15 a.m.

View a map of the parking lots. Additional parking guides and maps of the North Shore are available at http://news.steelers.com/heinzfield/.

Q: What if I want to walk but don't think I and/or my family could make the 5K journey?
A: The Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community also includes a One-Mile Fun Walk for those individuals who would feel more comfortable walking a shorter distance. This option is available to you and will begin at 9:15 a.m.

Q: How do I check-in the morning of the walk?
A: When you arrive at the walk start location, please check-in with the charity that you are walking to support. You will turn in your donation at this point. Once you turn in your donations, you may then proceed to get your event t-shirt. Please remember that registration begins at 7:45 a.m. and the 5K Walk begins at 9 a.m. The One-Mile Fun Walk begins at 9:15 a.m.

Q: How should I prepare for the walk?
A: On the day of the walk, participants should wear loose-fitting clothing and should layer clothes to accommodate temperature changes. Cotton or wool socks and walking shoes are also recommended. Participants who have special health needs should bring any prescription medications and a snack in case appropriate food is not available. If you are interested in developing a long-term training plan for this walk or to incorporate walking into your everyday routine, please visit the training portion of our site.

Q: What happens if there is inclement weather?
A: The Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community will take place rain or shine.

Q: Can I bring my children and/or a stroller?
A: Highmark and the participating organizations welcome you and your family to the walk. The walk is accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. Fun activities will also be provided for children at the close of the walk.

Q: What happens after the walk is over?
A: When you have completed the 5K or One-Mile Fun Walk, you can relax and enjoy food and entertainment. Raffle prizes will be drawn at approximately 11 a.m.

Q: Where does my donated money go?
A: All monies donated goes to support the mission of your selected charity. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has underwritten all of the walk expenses so that 100 percent of the money you raise will go directly to the charity of your choice.

Q: When must I submit my donations?
A: On the day of the walk, your donation should be placed in an envelope and given to the representatives at your charity's registration table. Please make sure all checks are made payable to your selected charity.

Q: Who should I name as the payee on my donation check?
A: Donations by check are recommended and should be made payable to your selected organization. Please note, checks will be returned if made payable to Highmark.