The Pirates are dealing with another potential public relations problem after KDKA-TV aired footage of the commemorative “Bucco Bricks” that used to be part of the sidewalks outside PNC Park now unceremoniously pilled up at a recycling center in Reserve Township.
Team senior vice president of communications and broadcasting Brian Warecki issued the following 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.
The proceeds from the sale of the bricks benefit the Roberto Clemente Foundation. An estimated 10,000 bricks have been purchased by Pirates fans since PNC Park opened. The discovery of the pile of bricks comes just days after fans noted the removal of a Roberto Clemente decal from the “Clemente Wall” inside the ballpark, which the Pirates said was a mistake that would be rectified.
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