Officials try to lure vendors to Pitt. subway stops

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Pittsburgh has three underground subway stations, but despite the efforts of the Port Authority of Allegheny County to attract businesses over the past three years, only one coffee stand has taken the plunge.
The authority, which envisioned the stations as subterranean marketplaces, is increasing efforts to attract vendors. Working against the idea is the lack of bathrooms, seating areas, heating and air conditioning.
On the plus side, vendors would have a captive audience that is expected to grow, according to Henry Nutbrown, the authority's head of engineering, business development and planning.
The Port Authority's light rail system has a daily ridership of about 27,000, and expanded service in communities south of the city is expected to add 13,000 trips a day.
Cool Beans Coffee Co. pays $1,500 a month rent at the Steel Plaza station.
"We have a respectable customer base, but by no means is it my busiest store," said Pete Sanida, president of Cool Beans, which has eight stands in Downtown office buildings.
As many as 10 spots are available for long- or short-term leases, Nutbrown said.