1930_Brick_and_Blockstone_Streets_Detail.pdf

These are detailed engineering specification drawings from the City of Pittsburgh's Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering, depicting two distinct street pavement construction methods for Blockstone Street and Vitrified Brick Street pavements, including curb and center gutter installations. The drawings provide comprehensive technical specifications for three different types of street surface installations:

For Blockstone Street Pavements, the specifications outline three block types (Medina Sandstone, Lignier Limestone, and Open Grain Granite), with pavement depths ranging from 5" to 5½" deep. The typical roadway section includes a ¾" to 1½" sand cushion, concrete base (typically 6" thick), and two layers of tar paper over the curb drain. The ordinates table details roadway width variations from 14' to 36', with corresponding surface measurements and slope specifications. For Vitrified Brick Street Pavements, similar construction methods are specified, with brick depth variations of 4", 3½", and 3", and nearly identical base and cushion layer configurations. Both drawings include detailed cross-sectional views, expansion joint requirements, and were approved in 1930 by multiple city engineering officials.