Abney welcomes March Madness’ return to Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, March 20 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, said he is thrilled that the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament is making its seventh appearance in the Steel City and will be a strong stimulus to the local economy.

The 19th Legislative District’s PPG Paints Arena will host first and second round March Madness action for the fifth time from March 21 to March 23. The influx of foot traffic and subsequent patronage at the wide array of area businesses is a prospect he said he looks forward to seeing come to fruition.

“I’m so proud to represent such diverse communities in Pittsburgh and look forward to seeing visitors from all corners of the country return or experience all the city has to offer for the first time,” Abney said. “Not only will they have lots of fun and make new memories, their collective stay will provide a vital boost to the economic cycle that keeps the city of Three Rivers moving onward and upward.”

Not only that, Duquesne University, also in the district Abney represents, has punched their tournament ticket for the first time in nearly 50 years. They play Brigham Young University in the first round.