Law firm excited to take over iconic Pittsburgh billboard

Law firm Pond Lehocky is hoping to make itself better known to Pittsburghers, taking over a massive billboard overlooking the city from atop Mount Washington.

The new ad replaced Iron City Beer on the well-known billboard earlier this week.

“We see it as an honor to have our name on such an iconic billboard in such a special city, a city that means so much to this firm,” Director of Marketing Brian Weiss told TribLive Wednesday.

The law firm, Weiss said, has deep Pittsburgh ties and is looking to broaden its marketing.

Founding partner Jerry Lehocky grew up in nearby Beaver County, and CEO Shawn Lehocky grew up in Pittsburgh.

The law firm — which opened its Pittsburgh office in 2010 — last fall announced it is now an official sponsor of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“We take pride in being part of Pittsburgh’s fabric, supporting the local community, and championing those who need it most,” Shawn Lehocky said in a statement. “Whether it’s fighting for injured workers, advocating for disabled individuals, or assisting anyone in need of legal help, we are here for you.”

Advertising in such a prominent spot, Weiss said, aims to ensure people who may need legal help are familiar with the brand.

“All of this is in service of our clients and people who may become clients in the future and making sure that when people need our services, we’re top of mind, we’re easy to find, we’re easy to get to,” he said.

Weiss declined to provide details on how much Pond Lehocky is spending on the billboard.

Iron City used the Lamar-managed advertising space from 1938 until the mid-1950s. The sign at times included neon lights, a clock and beer glasses.

The iconic billboard was occupied by advertisements for Alcoa, Bayer, Sprint and the National Flag Foundation before Iron City Beer reclaimed its spot on top of the hill in 2020.

Some Pittsburghers this week took to social media to mourn the end of the local beer brand’s reign atop Mount Washington.

“We love people who are passionate about their city and what it looks like and the things they see on a daily basis,” Weiss said. “The chatter has been humorous and generally kind-spirited. I think any time there’s change, there’s a reaction to change, sometimes there’s a little resistance to change.”

He couldn’t immediately say how long Pond Lehocky would advertise on the billboard, but he hopes the sign will remain “for quite some time.”

“The iconic Mount Washington billboard is a symbol of Pittsburgh’s resilience, pride and beauty,” Jerry Lehocky said. “For me, it’s also a connection to family history, a reminder of roots, and an enduring icon of this incredible city.”